RENEW, REFRESH, REST

It’s very important during Ramadan to look after yourself. Even if you aren’t fasting, the temperatures start to rise due to summer, meaning longer and hotter days. Some people see the month of Ramadan as an opportunity to turn over a new leaf, which is great and anyone can do this. Been slacking off at the gym? Eating badly? Not looking after your skin? The Holy Month is the perfect time break a habit or start or new one as it’s a good time to reflect on things you want for yourself. It’s best to not start a whole new program at this time as it can be unrealistic but it’s good to make small changes that you might have tried to start at the beginning of year and forgotten about. It is a common saying that it takes 40 days for a new habit to be created or a bad one to be destroyed and the month of Ramadan, which already requires change, may be a good start.

If you aren’t looking at making huge changes during Ramadan, it’s super important to be mindful about gaining weight and most will want to make fitness a priority. These goals can only be accomplished through planning during this blessed time. Make an eating plan at the beginning of the month and also make a plan to go to the gym 3-4 times a week and stick to it. Incorporating something like yoga is also a good idea, as it’s low impact and will relax your body and mind. By the end of the month you’ll feel fabulous and these habits will now be part of your regular routine.

SOME OF THE BEST WAYS TO LOOK AFTER YOURSELF DURING RAMADAN:

• Drink fluids between fasting times

• Once you break your fast, start with something like dates and then try to eat healthily and include wholegrains, fruits and vegetables

• Don’t go overboard on desserts, sugary drinks and fried food

• Avoid long amounts of time in the sun

• Exercise moderately

• Rest when you can

If you’re abstaining from eating and drinking during Ramadan it’s important to remain focused, stay in shape and eat the right foods when you break your fast. If you’re going to be fasting and also sticking to your normal fitness routine during Ramadan then this is great but can be more difficult. Ramadan can put a lot of strain on those who are only eating when the sun goes down. Exercise and good nutrition are difficult to maintain during the Holy Month, a time when dehydration, decreased muscle mass and weight gain are common amongst people who fast.

Whatever your plans are this month it’s important to listen to your body and take care of yourself. Mind, body and soul. Wishing you a blessed Ramadan.