Ramadan Timetable UK and Ireland 2014 Ramadan Timetable UK and Ireland 2014

There are countless benefits to fasting, some may use it as a good way of dieting others use it as a form of self discipline and an overall sense of wellbeing. Ultimately fasting is a protection for the mind, body and soul, it is a sheild which protects you from Shaytan (Satan) and from the hell fire. However it will only become easy for Satan to penetrate this sheild if you are not careful and not in control of yourself. The smallest of sins can damage this shield; such as lying, swearing, backbiting, unnecessary gossiping and everything else evil or anything which is not pleasing to Allah. Satan is indeed locked up during Ramadan but their little ones are still roaming freely. On top of that our bad habits are also to blame for the wrong we sometimes commit, thus we need to slowly change our bad habits in this month of Ramadan as (God) Allah has made it easier for us.

Fasting also has its positives, fasting brings inner peace and tranquility, it reminds you of people who are not so fortunate, it makes us appreciate our food even more and not waste or take it for granted. It teaches one self discipline and self restraint, it helps one to become more charitable and humble towards others. Fasting is also one of the five pillars of Islam which every Muslim must obey and implement in his life.

Remember Allah says:

"O you who believe, Fasting has been prescribed for you as it was prescribed to those before you so that you may attain Taqwah". (God Consciousness)

So you're at work and you realise you have bad breath. You try and avoid talking to your colleagues as much as possible and if you do, you try and keep it minimal. Surely you've tried this because i have: 'breath out with your nose and breath in with your mouth!' Breathing out with your nose and then breathing in whilst talking - works right? But ask yourself this, how long can you keep it up for? I couldnt, not for long anyway as its only a short term fix.

When fasting your mouth is usually dry and dry mouth means very little saliva is being produced in your mouth. It is important to keep yourself and your mouth clean, fresh and hydrated. After having your early morning meal (Suhoor) it is advised to drink plenty of water, brush your teeth properly and rinse thoroughly with a mouth wash if you have one. Be sure to use a non-alcoholic mouthwash as an alcoholic mouthwash will leave your mouth dry even more.

Ramadan is here, The month that is blessed;
Ramadan is here, The month we love best.
The month in which the Qur'an was sent;
A time of great blessing in which to repent.
Fasting for Allah is a great Muslim deed;
Controlling desires and Suppressing greed.

Ramadan is coming, Increase your Iman(faith).
Ramadan is coming, Recite the Qur'an.
Take "Suhoor" in the dead of the Night;
No eating or drinking during the daylight.
Refrain from bad deeds and repent your soul;
The pleasure of Allah is our only goal.

Even if there is hunger, remember your Lord
And wait until 'Iftar' to earn your reward.
Fasting is one of the gifts of Allah
Given to believers to increase 'Taqwah' (piety).
We pray to Allah to put right our hearts;
Ask for forgiveness from Allah and make a new start.

Raising our hands we ask for his 'Rahmaa';
Hear us our Lord and grant us 'Jannah'.

Author: Unknown