Dreading the Ramadan Fast During Exam Season?

Ramadan is a Holy month celebrated by millions of Muslims around the world. It is a special time of year when Muslims reflect on their faith journey, give back to the poor, and fast in the name of Allah as a covenant of their faith. However, it is no secret that fasting for up to 16 hours a day, especially in unforgiving Western Countries where Ramadan is not recognized, can be one hell of a dreadful task. After all, the grind must continue. Graduate schools expect top academics, bosses expect top performance, and the world continues to operate regardless of how hungry, thirsty, or lightheaded we feel throughout the day. But despite the hurdles, Ramadan can still be quite an enjoyable month because it all truly boils down to planning, execution, and intention.

Here are some tips that I have cultivated over the years as a University student to help with the Ramadan fatigue:

1. Become Nocturnal: Switch your whole productive schedule up-side-down. Especially if Ramadan falls in the middle of Exam Season, you are much better off saving the biggest bulk of your memorized material and new/ difficult concepts to when you have the most energy, which is typically right after you break your fast. Pump your veins with some caffeine and knock out as much tough material as possible. The golden hours are between 10 PM - 4 AM.

2. Stay hydrated: I know... hydrated during Ramadan? Who would have thought? No, but seriously. The reason why you feel light-headed during the day isn't that you did not have your morning coffee, it is probably because the last time you drank a cup of water was 3 days ago. Invest in a Brita, she will be your best friend.

3. Do not overeat when breaking your fast: As difficult as it is to control your portions, especially after fasting for 16 hours, you are doing your body more harm than good by eating large amounts of food within a small time period. I would suggest breaking your fast with a couple of dates and some water and eating small and controlled portions throughout the eating window (have 6 small and manageable meals prepared throughout the night).

4. Stay away from processed/ fried foods: Again, tough decision. But your body will thank you. Try to maintain a balanced diet of protein, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. You can treat yourself every now and then but for optimal work and academic performance, make sure you are eating healthy and filling foods and reaching your daily calorie goal, or as close to it as possible.

5. Stay active: This all sounds like horrible advice in practice but trust me, you will thank me. Keeping your blood pumping and your muscles moving is one of the most important and effective ways to stay energized. You might dread your existence during the workout but think about how good you will feel after? Try to schedule manageable workouts for 30 minutes every day or 4 times a week right before you break your fast so you can then have water and something to replenish your energy. Diet and exercise go hand-in-hand.

6. Establish your intentions: Think about why you are fasting. Reflect on your spiritual connection and make sure to spend time with family. Times like this are precious and they disappear in the blink of an eye. So make sure you sulk in every second of it.

Hope you found some of this advice helpful. Stay safe, and Ramadan Mubarak.