The month of Ramadan is considered the holiest month in the Islamic calendar that involves abstaining from eating amongst other vices from dawn to sunset, in the hopes that it will lead to greater “taqwa”, or consciousness of God. Muslims were commanded to fast during Ramadan more than 1,400 years ago, the ancient Greeks recommended fasting to heal the body, and today some scientists are advocating a modified fast for its mental and physical benefits. Experts have also found that restricting food intake during the day can help prevent health problems such as high cholesterol, heart disease, and obesity, as well as improve mental health and wellbeing.
Here are 5 benefits of fasting for the Body, Mind and Soul:
1. Free your mind from negative thoughts and clutter
On regular days, it is very normal to be distracted by negative thoughts causing unnecessary clutter and meaningless worry. For Muslims around the world, Ramadan is considered a holy month to seek inner peace through additional nightly and daily prayers and the practice of good deeds. This brings peace to the heart and enables a positive outlook on life, a perfect time to adhere to an optimistic mindset since we are in a Global Pandemic.
2. Feel more positive through resilience
It is believed that when one fasts, mental resilience is important throughout the day until it is time to break fast even when one is working at their office space. There should be no excuses in succumbing to laziness. Muslims believe in refraining from any negative intentions or speeches in order to cleanse their souls.
3. Cleanse your heart from vengeance & hatred
As Ramadan is the month of patience for those who fast, it is advised to take care of one’s heart from vengeance and hatred. Instead, they should focus more on the forgiveness of others. The Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. faced many challenges and attacks in his life and he always stayed patient and continued to seek forgiveness with his prayers. This is a true lesson to learn from and an inspiration to be better even after the fasting month ends.
5. Detach yourself from a materialistic mind
Islam teaches and reminds its believers that this world is temporary and what one should be preparing for is the Afterlife. Hence, Ramadan is a great month to try and detach from a materialistic mindset and instead focus on training the mind to be more resilient and kind.
