The blessed month of Ramadan is finally here – A time for reflection, spiritual discipline and celebration. Ramadan is celebrated by Muslims for a month worldwide.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Muslim calendar and the holy month of fasting from sunrise till sunset, a fast between 11-16 hours depending on the time of the year. Ramadan begins and ends with the appearance of the new moon. Ramadan entails forgoing eating, drinking, smoking, and also abstaining from sex as well.

Certain health concerns, pregnancy and menstrual cycles prohibits others from participating during Ramadan, as it can be dangerous for the individual. “For Muslims, Ramadan is a time to train themselves both physically and spiritually by avoiding any negative acts such as gossiping, backbiting, lying or arguing. Muslims welcome Ramadan as an opportunity for self-reflection, and spiritual improvement. Ramadan is also a highly social time as Muslims invite each other to break fast together and meet for prayers at the mosque.” – Ing.org

You would typically rise around 4:30-5:00 am, before dawn to eat a breakfast-like meal, called suhur. “After the meal, the family performs the morning prayer, and depending on the circumstances, the family goes back to bed or begins the day. Particularly during the long summer months, people often take a nap in the late afternoon after work or school. At sunset, family members break the fast with a few dates and water, and depending on the culture, other light foods such as soup, appetizers or fruit. This is referred to as iftar which means “breaking the fast.”

After performing the sunset prayers, the family eats dinner. Inviting guests to break the fast or going to someone else’s house for iftar is very common in Ramadan. Many families then go to the mosque for the night prayer and a special Ramadan prayer called taraweeh.” – Ing.org

Although many think that fasting is unhealthy, it is actually the opposite. Fasting is a means of purifying the body as well as spirit. Doctors agree that fasting helps with lowering cholesterol levels and heart health and much more health benefits for the body, mind and soul.

Even if you don’t fast, watch this https://t.co/2Pmxu90QM7

— Kal⚜️ (@kalznd) May 6, 2019

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At the end of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate one of their major holidays, Eid Al-Fitr, also know as the “Festival of Breaking Fast.” Traditionally, you get presents such as new clothes, money, toys and more. A special prayer is held the day of Eid Al-Fitr, along with a community celebration. It’s s special day for friends and family, socializing, and reuniting with friends and family members while enjoying food and gifts given to all.

“It’s hard to do at first, but each day passing gets easier. You just have to look at the benefits it does for you, mentally, physically and spiritually,” says Kamar A., LHS junior.

Ramadan Mubarak to all who celebrate and don’t forget to wish your Muslim friends a Happy Ramadan.