1. Begin your day with the Suhoor or morning meal before sunrise:
Eating suhoor is a physical and spiritual preparation for fasting during Ramadan. It is recommended to have a balanced and healthy meal consisting of proteins, carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables. A traditional Islamic proverb states that “breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a pauper.”
2. Attend to the Fajr (daybreak) prayer at the mosque or in group:
Fajr is one of the five obligatory prayers Muslims perform each day and during Ramadan, it's especially important because it marks the beginning of the fast. It is best practiced in congregation either at your local mosque or with other friends during Ramadan.
3. Prepare for fasting by following a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet:
It is important to practice good health habits before embarking on Ramadan such as drinking plenty of liquids, ensuring adequate sleep, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet and avoiding unhealthy food cravings. This way you will be better prepared for long hours of fasting each day.
4. Spend quality time reciting Quran, reflecting on its teachings, and praying throughout the day:
Fasting during Ramadan is not just about abstaining from food and drink but also the opportunity to focus on spiritual growth. This can be done through daily reflection, prayer and recitation of the Quran and Hadith (Prophetic Traditions). It is recommended to set aside an hour or two each day for reading, pondering over and memorizing verses from the Quran.
5. End your fast after sunset with Iftar which includes dates as a traditional part of breaking of fasts:
Breaking one's fast at sunset during Ramadan is known as Iftar. Dates are traditionally served as they are believed to provide the body with much needed energy after a long day of fasting. Other common foods include fresh fruits, soups and stews.
6. Attending Taraweeh prayers at night during Ramadan is highly recommended but not mandatory:
Taraweeh is a special prayer offered after Isha each night of Ramadan. It is traditionally performed in congregation at the mosque or in smaller groups depending upon one's location. Reciting the Quran and supplications during taraweeh can be very rewarding spiritually.
7. Participate in acts of charity such as donating food to those who are less fortunate:
One of the five pillars of Islam is zakat or charitable giving and Ramadan is an especially important time to give back to those who are less fortunate than you. This can be done through donating food, money or even volunteering your time and services at local charities or soup kitchens.
8. Take part in Laylat Al-Qadr – one of the holiest nights in Islamic history when Allah revealed The Quran:
Laylat Al-Qadr (The Night of Power) is believed by Muslims to be the night when Gabriel first brought down the Quran to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. When this night occurs during Ramadan it is considered highly auspicious and offers great spiritual rewards for those who spend it in prayer and worship.
9. Celebrate Eid-Al-Fitr at the end of Ramadan to mark the end of fasting and thank Allah for His blessings:
Eid-Al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated with much merriment and joy. Muslims gather in mosques or open areas to offer special Eid prayers, exchange gifts, visit family and friends, indulge in sweet treats, give charity and enjoy festive meals. On this day Muslims around the world unite in prayer and thanksgiving to their Creator.