7 steps to maximise Ramadan

As more than 1.9 billion Muslims of the world approach and get ready to welcome the most awaited month of the Islamic calendar, the holy month of Ramadan.

 Ramadan is the month of countless blessings and mercy. There lies a perfect opportunity for Muslims to set up and have deep contemplation to establish their relationship with their Creator, observe spiritual discipline, heightened devotion and worship.

Ramadan rituals allow one to transform and evolve spiritually faster, and facilitate in becoming the best version of themselves.

As Allah, the Almighty Says in the Noble Quran (what means):

"O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous." [Quran; 2:183]

Here is How to set up intentions and the 7 steps to maximise Ramadan.

Step 1: Setting intentions right and make a commitment. Reflect on what you want to achieve this Ramadan spiritually, physically, and socially.

It is very important to contemplate for what purpose it is significant to you, how do you wish to grow during this month and what value is it adding into your life journey.

The promised rewards in terms of Blessings during the month are unlimited. Try to absorb as many rewards and good deeds as you can . Don’t let this moment go wasted without having gained something.

Besides all other physical, mental, emotional benefits that fasting brings to you, take time out to reflect on how you can make your practice even better to maximise the outcome for transforming spiritually. Make a full commitment and be accountable.

Allah Says in Noble Quran

"Indeed, We sent the Qur’an down during the Night of Decree. And what can make you know what is the Night of Decree? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months. The angels and the Spirit descend therein by permission of their Lord for

every matter. Peace it is until the emergence of dawn." - Sura Al Qadr

Step 2 : A ritual is a series of actions that you perform mindfully and intentionally that is individual to you. While getting ready to follow the 30 days Ramadan rituals, focus

on how you can align with your daily work load. Make changes to your existing routine eliminating or simply cutting down on some other less important tasks from your routine for example internet and social media. Focus on maximising available time.

Step 3: Reflect on a behaviour or a bad habit that is causing obstacles in achieving your spiritual goals. Ramadan is the best opportunity and a start off point to guard your acts, behaviours and speech while fasting.

Dress modestly, honouring the sacred and most spiritual month with more humility.

Step 4: One essential element required is to have the mindset to be ready to surrender with gratitude when praying and fasting. Increase remembrance of Allah SWT by doing simple things such as Zikr, Hamd and Istaghfar.

Step 5: Quran Engagement: Listen to, recite and internalize Quran and seek guidance on a daily basis during the month. Focus on building a relationship with Quran.

As Quran mentions in one of the verses “(It is) the month of Ramadan in which the Qur’an was revealed as a guidance for mankind, clear proofs giving guidance, and the Criterion (for distinguishing right and wrong). So whoever of you witnesses this month, let him fast it.” [2:185]

Step 6: Taraweeh is one of the many blessings that Holy month of Ramadan brings for us. Commit to offer special prayers Taraweeh/ Nawafil in night for multiplied rewards.

Step 7: Increase charity and practice generosity.

Charity, the Third Pillar of Islam, is at the Heart of the Islamic Faith.

"You will never attain piety until you spend out of what you hold dear, and whatever you may spend on anything, Allah indeed knows it. –Quran 3:92

Another verse mentions

"Quran 57:18] and (what means): {Who is it that would loan Allah a goodly loan so He will multiply it for him and he will have a noble reward?} [Quran 57:11]

The Holy Prophet (S.A.W ) said "The best charity is that given in Ramadan”- (Tirmidhi )

Pre Ramadan Checklist

Spiritual Preparation:

• Prepare to fast in the month of Shaban in honour of Ramadan. Set aside the days the Prophet SWS loved to fast. Monday and Thursdays are all year recommended days for fasting.

• Set up a quiet corner in your home.
  

• Create a Prayer Schedule: Plan to increase your prayers, including Taraweeh, Tahajjud, and the five daily prayers.
  

• Read books / articles or listen to lecture to prepare for Ramadan.
  

• Prepare list of duas for yourself, your family, and the global community.
  

• Set smart goals for worship - prayers, recitation of Qur'an, Zikr.
  

• Set aside money to be given for daily charity and list down the names.
  

• Digital Detox: Go on a "Technology Diet". Plan to reduce unnecessary screen time to maximize the benefits of Ramadan.
  

• Prepare daily menu for Ramadan. Make healthy choices for Sahoor and Iftar, keeping in view the dietary needs.

Physical Preparation:

• Health Check: Consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns about fasting, especially if you have health conditions.
  

• Adjust Your Sleep Schedule: Gradually adjust your sleep schedule to accommodate for meal times and night prayers.
  

• Meal Planning: Plan nutritious Suhoor and Iftar meals in advance to maintain health and energy.
  

• Hydration: Increase your water intake before Ramadan starts to ensure you're well-hydrated.

Home Preparation

• Deep Clean: Clean your home thoroughly to create a peaceful environment.
  

• Ramadan Decorations: Consider decorating your home to create a festive atmosphere for yourself and your family.

Community Engagement

• Connect with Community: Look into Ramadan events at your local mosque or community center and plan how you can participate.
  

• Family Meetings: Discuss with your family how everyone can support each other during Ramadan. Plan joint activities or meal preparations.
  

• Financial Preparation: Budgeting for Ramadan: Allocate funds for increased grocery bills, charity, and Eid expenses to avoid financial stress.
  

• Eid Preparation: Think ahead to Eid-ul-Fitr. Consider any gifts you want to prepare or clothing you wish to buy to avoid last-minute rushes.