How to take care of your health during Ramadan

The holy month is a time of intense spiritual reflection, but the hours of fasting can be a real physical and mental challenge.

At SHA Wellness Clinic, we believe in cultural diversity and religious freedom, which is why we are always looking for the best way to adapt our services and treatments to the needs of each of our guests. For this reason, from the afternoon of the 2nd of April until the afternoon of the 2nd of May, we are joining in the celebration of Ramadan. To this end, information regarding sunrise and sunset times and the direction to Mecca will be available in the suites and at reception. Special amenities will also be prepared in the rooms, including dates, juices, and water, and iftar and Suhur can be ordered from room service until 10 p.m. and served until 12 noon. On request, guests will also be attended to by therapists of the same sex.

So that the changes in lifestyle habits during Ramadan do not cause any nutritional or energy imbalances, the multidisciplinary team at SHA gives us a series of tips that will help us to achieve spiritual wellbeing.

Nutrition

During non-fasting hours, it is essential to opt for fresh, healthy food, and avoid processed foods. This way, your body can get the nutrients it needs to function properly, and you will feel energised throughout the day. To stay hydrated, increase your intake of foods with high-water content, such as cucumbers, lettuce, radishes, cauliflower, broccoli, celery, melon, watermelon, strawberries, apples, and green leafy vegetables. In addition, replace substances that can cause dehydration, such as caffeine, with juices made from fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables. Further, complex carbohydrates found in whole grains, pulses and fibre-rich foods will help you stay energised during fasting hours, as they release energy slowly. You will find them in barley, wheat, oats, millet, basmati rice, lentils, beans, figs, prunes, nuts, and seeds. Finally, it is advisable not to binge eat and to break the fast with small portions of food so that the body can gradually adapt.

Physical Activity

Moderate sporting activity is key to maintaining energy levels throughout the day. Exercise releases endorphins and hormones, such as oxytocin, which improve mood, reduce negative feelings such as anxiety and depression, and act as natural painkillers that promote relaxation and stress management. Physical activity has been shown to have a very beneficial impact on the brain, stimulating the creation of new cells and inducing changes in brain chemicals that promote positive emotions.

Mind-Body Disciplines

Mindful breathing and meditation are two highly recommended practices that will help you open your mind, restore inner peace and balance, and create the perfect atmosphere to take that necessary pause to reflect on your spiritual and mental well-being. In addition, these ancient techniques, which invite you to focus on the present moment without trying to control or judge it, promote relaxation and rest, while also minimising stress and anxiety. Best of all, they can be practised anytime, anywhere.