Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, and is synonymous with fasting from ‘dawn to dusk’. However, for the Islamic community this period means more than fasting, and is considered a time for spiritual reflection, self-improvement, and devotion. We spoke with Mohammad, who shares with us some information about Ramadan, and his personal experience of observing Ramadan with a stoma.
For more information or if you’d like to learn more about Ramadan, please see the link at the end of the blog.
Take a read of Mohammad’s experience below:
Understanding Ramadan
Ramadan is not just a physical test but also a time for spiritual purification and introspection. It is considered the holiest month for Muslims because it’s believed the Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), during this month. Thus, Ramadan is a commemoration of this divine gift, making the act of fasting a path to developing Taqwa (consciousness of God).
More Than Just Fasting
While fasting is a key aspect of Ramadan, its importance lies in its ability to teach self-discipline, self-control, sacrifice, and empathy for those less fortunate. This month encourages Muslims to perform extra prayers, read the Quran, engage in Dhikr (the remembrance of Allah), and give generously to charity (if you can afford to). Here are some key principles of Ramadan and how I’ve adopted them:
Heightened Devotion
During Ramadan, Muslims are encouraged to reflect on their lives and make amends wherever necessary. It is an ideal time to seek forgiveness for past transgressions and strive to improve one’s character. There are nightly prayers, called Taraweeh, which involve reciting portions of the Quran and symbolise unity for the Muslim community. These are voluntary and can be performed seated if you’re unable to – as I do due to my disability.
Self-Improvement
Personal development is at the heart of Ramadan. Fasting is a way to cleanse the body, mind and soul. It is believe through fasting, our behaviours and habits are revealed, we affirm to ourselves we are stronger than our desires, and we renounce our bad habits and addictions. Think of it as a New Year’s resolution with a 30-day plan, specific check-ins and a progress tracker. This Ramadan I learnt acceptance, I forgave myself for falling ill (cancer) and I accepted my limitations. Although I haven’t fully grieved the person I was before my colostomy I have started this process and intend to work on it fully beyond the month of Ramadan.
Acts of Charity
Zakat (obligatory charity) and Sadaqah (voluntary charity) are highly emphasised in Ramadan. By fasting we gain an insight to those less fortunate and to those suffering from war, famine and occupation. By performing Zakat and Sadaqah these acts reinforce the bonds of brotherhood and compassion within the community. We give what we can afford, after all, we are living through a spiralling cost of living crisis, we are trying to stretch our purses but they can only go so far. I’ve looked for ways in which I can fulfil this obligation by parting knowledge and wisdom through my own website, and social media and I’m fortunate to be writing a regular blog for Respond. I’ve also volunteered to help charities to the best of my ability.
Fasting with a Stoma
Here are the ways I observe Ramadan with my stoma:
Maintain a healthy diet – If you have a urostomy or ileostomy, it’s best to limit your intake of salty, processed, fatty or dried foods as they can be difficult to digest and may increase your thirst. Keep these foods to a minimum. Personally, with my colostomy:
Managing your output – I steer clear of foods that cause loose stool or gas. This includes leafy green vegetables, overly spicy dishes, baked beans, and excessive fish consumption. Ileostomists might consider taking loperamide outside of fasting times.
Stay hydrated – I aim to drink at least 2 litres of non-carbonated water or caffeine-free beverages when you’re not fasting. Those with a urostomy can also consume water-rich foods like melon or cucumber. It is known that yoghurt can support hydration.
Exercise – Whilst fasting it’s important not to overexert myself. Instead I enjoy regular walks and exercising after breaking fast, where possible
Please remember these are just my experiences and tips, if you have any queries or concerns regarding your stoma, contact your Stoma Nurse.
Common Misconceptions
Myth: Ramadan is only about fasting.
Truth: While fasting is crucial, Ramadan is equally about prayer, reflection, and charity and for the Muslim community.
Myth: Ramadan is a month of solemnity.
Truth: It’s a month of joy and community, where families and friends break their fast together, often sharing meals with the less privileged.
Myth: Fasting is harmful to your health.
Truth: If done correctly, fasting has numerous scientifically proven health benefits.
Myth: Muslims don’t eat or drink anything for 30 days.
Truth: Muslims fast from dawn to dusk and consume pre-dawn and post-sunset meals.
Myth: Everyone should fast during the month of Ramadan.
Truth: Although everyone is encouraged to fast there are exemptions. These exemptions are:
- Illness: If someone has a long-term illness, are on medication needed throughout the day or become too unwell to fast and their symptoms would worsen because of this, they mustn’t continue.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Abstaining from food and fluids whilst pregnant or breastfeeding can pose a health risk to a woman and their babies and since they have a dependent it is vital that they refrain from fasting during this time.
- Frail elderly person: There is no specific age when you should stop fasting, therefore it is defined by an individual’s health. If your health would deteriorate by fasting, then you would be exempt.
- Menstruation or post-natal bleeding: It is explicitly forbidden for a woman to fast whilst they are menstruating or if you are experiencing post-natal bleeding. Similar to the exemption from performing salah during these periods, this rule acknowledges the physical and emotional strain a woman may endure.
- Travelling: A traveller is defined as someone who intends to travel to a place which is longer than 48 miles away.
It is worth mentioning that you are able to make up for any days missed during Ramadan at a later date, at your convenience (fasting is prohibited on you are prohibited on Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha). If you are a Muslim, you may wish to consult your Imam for guidance.
I hope that I have explained how Ramadan is much more than a ritualistic fast for the Islamic community, and that you have found my experience helpful if you are also observing Ramadan.