A Day in the life of Fasting during Ramadan
by Nosheen Haque, CIPR NW committee member
7 March 2025
Ramadan is a special and sacred month for Muslims worldwide, observed by fasting from dawn to sunset. It lasts for a month and shifts each year based on the Islamic lunar calendar, beginning with the sighting of the moon. At the end of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr, a joyous festival marking the completion of fasting with prayers, feasts and gatherings with loved ones.
4.00am – Suhoor: The Pre-Dawn Meal
The alarm goes off and I get myself out of bed, feeling a little like a zombie. Ramadan is a beautiful time for reflection and gratitude, but waking up before dawn is no easy feat! This early meal, known as Suhoor, is essential — it’s the last chance to eat and drink before fasting begins at sunrise. Some people opt for a hearty meal (butter chapattis with yoghurt), but I keep it light with a glass of water, a piece of toast with a cup of tea and some dates to keep me going throughout the day.
5.30am – A Moment of Reflection
Before the break of dawn, I pray Fajr, the first of the five daily prayers. This prayer usually lasts about five minutes, the shortest prayer of the day. It’s a peaceful moment of stillness before the world wakes up.
With my caffeine kicking in, I take a few moments to read the Quran. Ramadan isn’t just about abstaining from food and drink — it’s also about self-improvement, kindness, and spiritual growth. Reading even a few pages helps me set the right tone for the day.
6.00am – Starting the Workday
My workday begins earlier than usual, thanks to a flexible employer who understands the importance of Ramadan. Normally, I’d open the laptop while sipping my second cup of tea, but today, it’s all about willpower! I organise my tasks and get stuck in, reminding myself that I have 12 hours to go before I can eat or drink again.
9.00am – The First Hurdle
By now, the initial burst of morning energy is fading. I take a quick walk in the garden for some fresh air to combat the fatigue. For me, fasting isn’t about missing food — it’s the thirst that gets to me. But I push through, focusing on my work and keeping busy.
12.00pm – The Second Prayer: Zuhr
It’s around midday, and I pause to perform Zuhr, the second prayer of the day. This break is a great reminder to reset and stay mindful of why I’m fasting.
2.00pm – The Afternoon Slump
I rarely nap, but today, I could really use one! Instead, I finish up my working day and read more from the Quran. This helps refocus my mind and distracts me from the growing thirst and hunger. I appreciate that, unlike many people around the world - I will at least have fresh water and food later today when I break my fast.
3.30pm – Preparing for Iftar
The third prayer, Asr, is done, which means it’s time to start preparing Iftar – the evening meal to break the fast. Some people find cooking while fasting torturous, but I actually enjoy it. It keeps me busy, and the anticipation makes the meal even more rewarding!
5.00pm – The Longest Hour
The final stretch is always the hardest. My stomach is growling, and I’m watching the clock, willing it to move faster. Today, we’re hosting our family for Iftar and everyone is gathered, ready to break the fast together – a Ramadan tradition that brings people closer.
6.00pm – Iftar: Breaking the Fast
Finally, the time has come! We open our fast with dates and water, following the tradition of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It’s a tradition to open your fast with dates and water and to stand facing the Kaaba (holy and the direction in which we pray) while doing this. The first sip of water after a long day of fasting is indescribably refreshing.
After Maghrib, the fourth prayer of the day, I tuck into my meal. Oddly enough, despite the hunger, I can’t eat as much as I expected! But dessert? There’s always room for that!
7.30pm – Isha and Taraweeh Prayers
The final prayer of the day, Isha, is followed by Taraweeh, a special night prayer performed during Ramadan. Praying in congregation, either at home with family or at the mosque, is a powerful experience – it brings a sense of unity and spiritual fulfillment.
9.30pm – Time to Recharge
After a long day, exhaustion kicks in. I sip on a (decaf) cuppa and head to bed, knowing I’ll be doing it all over again tomorrow. Despite the challenges, Ramadan is a month of immense spiritual and personal growth. It’s a time of gratitude, self-discipline, and connection – with my faith, family, and community.
I hope this gives you a glimpse into a day of fasting. While it’s tough, the spiritual and personal rewards make it all worthwhile.