This year the holy month of Ramadan starts on the 11 August. It\u2019s a challenging time of the year for many Muslims, particularly doctors in the NHS. I have been fasting for many years since a young age, but the fast became very challenging when I started my career as a doctor and the challenge does not get any easier. Being a full time doctor and a mother of a 5 year old, I have to manage my responsibilities as well as my religious obligations. Almighty God tells us in the Quran \u201cOn no soul doth Allah place a burden greater than it can bear \u201c [Quran 2:286]. This is indeed very true. Even though the Ramadan will be during the peak of summer, where the average fast will be at least 15 hours, I believe that God will make it easy for me.<\/p>\n
For me Ramadan brings the challenge of dedication, discipline, and self regulation which helps me deal with other challenges that I face throughout the year. My usual routine during this month is to ensure that I commence the fast with a wholesome, but not excessive pre dawn meal. This will help supply me with the energy to last the day. After which I take some rest before commencing my working day.<\/p>\n
During the day, I prioritise my workload so that I can be productive. I aim to complete all my essential duties before fatigue begins to have effect. I try to keep my mind off food, as the human inclination for food is still strong. By midday I begin to experience hunger, but I use my will power to suppress this (although that is never easy). However, a busy working day does have one big advantage: it helps the time go quickly. When I am on call, I will almost certainly be opening my fast at work. For this I usually take some home cooked food with me as this is better than eating out or buying something processed from a supermarket.<\/p>\n
On those days when I come home on time there may still be a few hours before the fast ends for the day. During this time, I will do my prayers, do some paper work, and prepare the evening meal. When I open my fast, I don\u2019t devour my food but I pray instead before sitting down with my family to eat.<\/p>\n
To us Muslims the month of Ramadan is very important. It may seem like a colossal task, but by adhering to self discipline, prayer, and firm belief in The Almighty, the whole month becomes very bearable. To know that I am doing this for my Lord, and he will reward me, makes the whole experience a lovely month.<\/p>\n
The fast is also made easier with support from my family and my non-Muslim colleagues and working team. Their sensitivity and respect for the month of Ramadan helps me deal with the challenges I experience during Ramadan.<\/p>\n
No doubt, Ramadan is a challenge, but it has it rewards and bounties. Its hardship will me make me a better person and ultimately a better doctor.<\/p>\n