The Late-Sleeper, Obsessed Taraweeh Observer, and Lover of Swallow: 3 Muslims Share their Ramadan Routines

During the blessed and holy month of Ramadan, my daily routine shifts - for example, on weekends I'm usually in bed by 9:30 pm, whereas in other months I often stay up later, engaging in various activities before retiring for the night.

Without a doubt, Ramadan is a unique month that sets itself apart from the rest of the year. What is your routine like during this blessed month? Do you spend the night in prayerful reflection, observing taraweeh, and immersing yourself in the imam's melodious voice? Or do you stay up all night, engaging in tahajjud? What kind of meals do you enjoy most, and what about Ramadan brings you the most joy? Its incomparable mercy, unparalleled peace, bountiful provisions, and infinite joy are truly something to behold.

We have invited some Muslims to share their unique Ramadan routines with us. From those who love to savour the deliciousness of swallow to the devoted Muslim who spends their nights in prayerful Taraweeh, hear how they strive to create harmony between their personal and spiritual obligations throughout the holy month.

 

ABDULRAHMAN

Two words to describe your mood when Ramadan approaches:

Excited & Hopeful.

 

What, to you, is the best part of the holy month?

The month of Ramadan is an amazing experience for both Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Muslims who are not so religious during other months strive to become better during Ramadan. I recently came across this chart that analyzed the level of atrocities people commit every month. It was so high in other months, but when it got to the month of Ramadan, the atrocities were so reduced that the chart was flat. We've even seen the streets of London decorated to celebrate the commencement of Ramadan, which makes it all the more special.

 

What time do you wake up during the holy month? What time do you sleep?

For the first twenty days, I woke up at around four in the morning to pray tahajjud, do dhikr, and read the Qur'an before having sahur at five. My sleep schedule varies, as I often read the Qur'an at night due to my work during the day, but I generally try to go to bed earlier than usual.

How has your sleeping pattern changed since Ramadan commenced?

Since the start of the fast, my sleeping pattern has drastically changed: I now sleep early and wake up early, and I even take naps during the day to make up for the lost hours at night.

Tell us about a particular favorite activity you enjoy performing in Ramadan. Do you read, watch videos, or hang out with friends?

Before Ramadan began, I used to only open the Qur’an for hifz (memorization) and murajjah (revision). However, during this blessed month, I have taken the time to appreciate the Qur’an by actually reading it.

 

What kind of meals do you enjoy eating for sahur and iftar?

For sahur, I relish hot semo and egusi soup, accompanied by succulent goat meat. I don't have a particular preference when it comes to iftar, as I enjoy a variety of delicacies. Nonetheless, I'm especially fond of fried foods such as fried eggs and potatoes. 

HAMIDA

Two words to describe your mood when Ramadan approaches.

Delighted and Anxious.

What, to you, is the best part of the holy month?

The night of Laylatul Qadr. It's my favorite part of the holy month. 

What time do you wake up during the holy month? What time do you sleep?

Mostly, I get up by 4:30 to prepare for sahur, and afterward, I observe the fajr prayer before going back to sleep (which depends on the day's schedule).

How has your sleeping pattern changed since Ramadan commenced?

Of course, it has. Before Ramadan began, I stayed up late a lot. Sometimes I go to bed by 11 p.m. or 12. Nowadays, I'll be deep in my sleep by 9 p.m.

Tell us about a particular favorite activity you enjoy performing in Ramadan. Do you read, watch videos, or hang out with friends?

I enjoy reading a lot. But lately, that's all I seem to do.

What kind of meals do you enjoy eating for sahur and iftar?

I don't have a specific preference for the types of meals I enjoy during iftar and sahur. I enjoy eating spontaneously.

Reveal your most beloved form of worship.

Waking up while the night is silent and praying to Allah. 

MARYAM

Two words to describe your mood when Ramadan approaches:

Anxious & Hopeful.

What, to you, is the best part of the holy month?

The fact that every Muslim, irrespective of their level of faith, takes individual steps to please Allah and maximize the benefits of the holy month. It is inspiring to witness how many Muslims, through small acts, strive to do things they wouldn't normally do, such as abstaining from music or staying up late to pray tahajjud. Ramadan is a reminder that Muslims can strive to do better for themselves and others and to prepare for the afterlife.

What time do you wake up during the holy month? What time do you sleep?

At the start of Ramadan, I make an effort to wake up at 4:00 am, pray a few rak'ahs, and prepare for Sahur. Lately, however, I have been having difficulty waking up on time. I am thankful for the last 10 days and the opportunity to make a change. Additionally, I have adjusted my nightly routine to ensure that I can wake up at a reasonable hour for tahajjud and sahur rather than sleeping late like I do during other months.

How has your sleeping pattern changed since Ramadan commenced?

Since the beginning of Ramadan, my sleep cycle has been significantly altered, yet my body is adjusting to the new routine of rising, sleeping, and eating.

Tell us about a particular favorite activity you enjoy performing in Ramadan. Do you read, watch videos, or hang out with friends?

I read Islamic books and watch inspiring videos. I also enjoy reading the Qur’an and staring at Muslims storming the mosque for the taraweeh prayers. 

What kind of meals do you enjoy eating for sahur and iftar?

I enjoy eating light meals for Sahur, like rice and pasta. I also enjoy eating eba. Rice and pasta are also my go-to meals for Iftar.