Ramadan: Recharging Through Prayer & Worship

By Hayder Al-Asadi, Accounting Analyst, Shepherds of Good Hope

Most of us likely spend a lot of time, money and energy ensuring our physical body and mental health are well-taken care of through sleep, daily movement and what we eat. 

What helps you recharge throughout the day? 

For many practicing Muslims around the world, praying during five designated times each day allows us to recharge. Prayer is not only an act of worship, but a mindfulness practice that allows one to pause, and reconnect to God. 

Acts of worship such as prayer is one primary way Muslims ensure they are caring for their spiritual wellbeing. The Islamic faith greatly emphasizes a holistic approach to living that considers the mind, body and soul. 

Personally, I view my life as a Muslim as a lifestyle that I practice, and not just a religion that I believe in. In addition to the primary practice of prayer that we engage in daily, Muslims around the world observe fasting during the month of Ramadan. 

Ramadan: Friday, February 28 – Saturday, March 29 

Ramadan is regarded as one of the most blessed months of the year, as it’s the month that the holy book, the Quran, was revealed to Prophet Muhammed (Peace Be Upon Him). 

During the month of Ramadan, practicing Muslims fast every day from dawn to sunset and engage in additional acts of worship. The intention of fasting during Ramadan is to invite us to enhance key values as a human including that of patience, empathy, and community. 

For example, by refraining from water, and food until sunset every day, it enables me to better empathize with how the poor or people experiencing homeless feel every day, which in turn inspires me to do more to help. 

I feel grateful to work at an organization like Shepherds of Good Hope, which reminds me of others daily. That feeling of connection is amplified for me on a physical and spiritual level during Ramadan. 

Whether you observe the month of Ramadan or not, I hope this encourages you to find something that helps you recharge. 

 Ramadan Kareem!