Ramadan is a holy month in Islam and is considered a month full of blessings from Allah SWT. During this month, Muslims are obligated to fast as it is one of the five pillars of Islam. Ramadan fasting is the act of refraining from eating, drinking, and other certain activities that relates to one’s desires from dawn until sunset.

During Ramadan, Muslims also perform the tradition of breaking the fast together, known as Iftar. Iftar is usually done by sharing food with those in need or by inviting family, neighbors, and friends to break the fast together.

Abu Huraira reported that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Every act of the son of Adam is for him, except fasting. It is (exclusively) meant for Me and I (alone) will reward it. Fasting is a shield. When any one of you is fasting on a day, he should neither indulge in obscene language, nor raise the voice; or if anyone reviles him or tries to quarrel with him he should say: I am a person fasting.” (Sahih Muslim 1151d Book 13, Hadith 212).

Ramadan fasting is not just about the physical aspect, but also an opportunity to increase spiritual awareness and obedience to Allah. Although fasting can be a challenge for some people, Ramadan is still considered a month full of blessings and an opportunity for Muslims to get closer to Allah SWT.

During this month, Muslims are also intensive in performing their acts of worship such as prayer, reading the Quran, performing dhikr, and doing general good deed. The peak of Ramadan is Eid al-Fitr, which is celebrated as a sign of the success of Muslims in fasting with full faith and patience.

In order to make the most of Ramadan, it’s important to be well-prepared. This will ensure that fasting, worship, and daily activities don’t take a toll on our bodies or come as a surprise. To optimize your worship during Ramadan, make sure that your body is up to the challenge of fasting and daily activities, so that you don’t experience any discomfort or unexpected setbacks.

Preparation for fasting in Ramadan involves a series of steps that include physical, mental, and spiritual aspects. First, awareness of the intention to fast is a very important starting point. Every day before dawn, it is important to set intentions sincerely in the heart as a manifestation of spiritual obedience.

A deep understanding of the rules of fasting also needs attention. This includes prohibitions on eating, drinking, and having sexual intercourse from dawn until sunset.

Body health aspects must also be the main concern. Before entering Ramadan, it is recommended to undergo a health check, especially if there are certain medical conditions. Consult a doctor if necessary, so that fasting can be done safely.

In addition, physical preparation is also important to do. Getting used to waking up earlier, light exercise, and consuming nutritious food at dawn will help the body stay healthy and strong during fasting. Adjustment of meal schedules should also be done gradually a few days before Ramadan.

The sahur and breaking fast menu should be designed by paying attention to nutritional balance, including complex carbohydrates, protein, fiber, as well as important vitamins and minerals to maintain food intake during breaking fast so that the body does not experience health problems such as headaches or nausea.

However, mental preparation is also equally important. Fasting is not just about hunger and thirst, but also about controlling anger, emotions, and increasing patience and sincerity. Therefore, preparing oneself spiritually and mentally is the key to achieving the real benefits of fasting in Ramadan.

During Ramadan, increase spiritual awareness by intensifying worship. In addition to performing prayers, take the time to read the Quran, do dhikr, and perform other good deeds. Use leisure time for self-reflection and introspection, with the aim of improving bad habits and attitudes.

An active role in doing good deeds such as giving charity and sharing food with those in need can increase a sense of togetherness and empathy towards others.

Finally, if there are specific questions or concerns related to fasting, it is recommended to consult with religious experts or local community leaders. All of these preparations aim to carry out fasting worship with balance and obedience, both physically and spiritually, creating a meaningful and blessed Ramadan experience.