I fast for Ramadan yearly – these are the key life lessons I’ve learned from my experiences
Journalist Mars Elkins-El Brogy shares her first hand experiences of fasting for Ramadan and the key lessons and eating strategies she's employed over the years
As a woman, journeying through different stages of life, Ramadan has had a huge impact on how I perceive and interact with food. To me, the sacred month of fasting embraced by nearly two billion Muslims globally is much more than a religious observance – it’s a deeply transformative experience. I’ve been on an extraordinary journey since observing Ramadan, one that’s reshaped my relationship with the very essence of nourishment.
My first fasting experiences
When I first started observing Ramadan seriously in my twenties, I was single and living on my own. The idea of fasting from dawn to dusk seemed daunting at first. I had always been a food enthusiast, enjoying cooking, experimenting with different cuisines and eating out. The thought of abstaining from food and drink for hours was intimidating. However, my initial experience of fasting during Ramadan turned out to be more enlightening than I had anticipated.
The first few days were a real test of endurance as my body got used to the new fasting routine. I found myself mentally going through the menu of my favourite lunchtime spots, daydreaming about the delicious snacks and refreshing drinks I usually enjoyed. The smell of morning coffee wafting through the air felt like pure torture, teasing my senses and mocking my empty stomach.
Yet, I pressed on, knowing that this temporary discomfort was part of a greater journey of self-discipline and growth. But as the days went by, I noticed a shift in my perception of hunger and cravings. I became more mindful of my eating habits and began to appreciate the true value of food.
Processed and sugary foods lost their appeal, as I became more attuned to how different foods affected my body. Dates, a fruit often mentioned in the Quran, are known for their nutritional value and became my iftar (the meal to break the fast) staple. I found myself reaching for nutritionally-balanced options, like energy balls with dates, which provided a natural and satisfying sweetness. Each bite was savoured, and I learned to eat with gratitude and mindfulness.
Fasting as a partnership
Years later, as a married woman, fasting became a shared experience with my husband, and preparing for iftar turned into a collaborative effort. For him, with his Egyptian roots, Ramadan evokes memories of childhood iftars filled with the aroma of ful medames and the vibrant colours of baklava. For me, with my South East Asian heritage, it brings back cherished memories of family gatherings, the comforting scent of chicken adobo, and the joy of mixing a refreshing halo-halo (a Filipino dessert made consisting of shaved ice and layers of sweet beans, fruits and jellies) with loved ones.
We experimented with different recipes, trying to create hearty but nutritious meals to break our fasts. Thanks to our love of travelling we had lots of culinary inspirations to draw from. From Moroccan lamb tagines to shakshuka, we relished the chance to recreate dishes that not only satisfied our hunger but also celebrated the rich flavours we had encountered on our journeys. This culinary exploration added an extra layer of excitement and connection as a couple. Cooking together became a bonding activity, and we cherished the moments of togetherness around the iftar table. One of our favourite recipes is sweet potato & peanut curry, a delicious and filling dish.
I increasingly became more conscious of the nutritional value of the food we consumed. Working full time and fasting all day made me realise the importance of fuelling our bodies with wholesome, balanced meals, so we incorporated more fruits, vegetables and lean proteins into our diet.
For Muslims, Ramadan is not just a month of fasting, but also the month of the Quran. As I engaged more with the Quran, I learned about the foods mentioned within its verses. Foods such as olives, known for their healthy fats, and honey, valued for its natural sweetness and health benefits, became staples in our dishes. The long summer fasts also made me more aware of the need to stay hydrated, prompting us to include hydrating fruits like cucumbers and pomegranates in our meals.
Fasting taught me the art of moderation. I learned to listen to my body's hunger cues and avoid overindulgence. The spiritual aspect of fasting, coupled with the physical discipline, helped me develop a healthier relationship with food. It was no longer about satisfying cravings.
Fasting as a mother: a new perspective
When I became a mother, fasting presented a new set of challenges and rewards. Fasting while caring for young children required careful planning and time management. I had to balance my responsibilities as a mum with my spiritual practices. Preparing iftar and suhoor (the pre-dawn meal) became a logistical exercise, but it also allowed me to instil the virtues of fasting in my children.
I wanted my kids to understand the significance of fasting and the importance of empathy and compassion for those less fortunate. Involving them in the preparation of simple iftar meals, such as couscous salad and lentil soup, became a way to teach them about the blessings of food and the joy of sharing.
Physically, fasting during Ramadan while managing the demands of motherhood was challenging. The lack of sleep and constant activity drain my energy levels, so I have to prioritise iftar foods that provided sustained energy throughout the day like smoothies and whole grains.
The physical impact of fasting
Initially, the absence of regular meals and snacks led to fluctuations in my energy levels. However, as my body adapted to the fasting routine, I noticed improvements in my digestion and metabolism.
Intermittent fasting, which is essentially what Ramadan entails, has been shown to have various health benefits. Some experts say that it helps regulate blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity and promote cellular repair processes. Personally, I experienced a greater sense of clarity and focus during fasting hours. My body became more efficient at utilising stored energy, and I felt more energised and alert even when at work.
The importance of organisation and meal planning
One of the key lessons fasting in Ramadan taught me is the importance of organisation and meal planning. I started by creating a meal plan for the entire month, incorporating a variety of dishes to keep our meals interesting. Planning ahead allowed me to make the most of my time and resources, ensuring that we always had wholesome ingredients on hand. For extra inspiration, I often turned to resources like healthy Ramadan recipes.
Batch cooking became an essential strategy. I would prepare larger quantities of soups, stews and casseroles that could be easily reheated for iftar. This not only saves time but also reduces the stress of daily cooking.
Meal planning is a family activity. We discuss our favourite dishes and try new recipes together. It makes mealtimes more enjoyable and helps teach my youngsters about the importance of planning and organisation.
This also brings me to the art of mindful shopping. I am more conscious of the ingredients I buy, opting for fresh foods over processed ones. Meal planning allows me to make wise food choices, avoid impulsive buys and significantly reduce food waste. Every ingredient in my colour-coded grocery list has a purpose, making this lifestyle a healthier and sustainable one.
Fasting during Ramadan has taught me some pretty valuable life skills. I have become way more conscious about organising meals, so there is no last-minute “what’s for dinner?” panic. As I continue to navigate the twists and turns of life, I am excited to embrace the ongoing journey of self-discovery that this Islamic sacred month offers. I never knew that fasting could shape my relationship with food in such a massive way. The 20-year-old me would never have believed it.