Ramadan student guidance from the Islamic Society

Time management techniques

• Early morning study sessions: At the start of fasting (post-Suhoor) energy levels are high, take advantage of the early morning high energy levels to engage in focused study sessions. Your brain uses high amounts of glucose when studying, glucose levels peak during this time
• Prioritise important topics: identify and study the most critical or mentally demanding topics during periods of heightened alertness, such as after Suhoor or Iftar
• Create a structured study plan: develop a detailed study plan after noticing what times you work best a few days into Ramadan. Make sure this plan accommodates for prayer times, meal schedules, and other Ramadan-related activities, and make sure this plan is realistic and can be followed consistently
• Set realistic goals for yourself. If you don’t believe you will be able to work after Iftar, adapt your schedule to reflect this, creating a daily to-do list the night before
• Staying focused: Consider techniques such as the Pomodoro method (25 minutes studying, 5 minutes break). Note that these work and break timings can be adjusted accordingly, even longer break times such as 30 minutes working, 30-45 minutes on break, can also be followed-especially during the day or closer to Iftar (breaking fast)
• Refresh your wudu (ritual ablution) to prevent feeling lethargic

Stay healthy and hydrated

• Hydration is key! Tracking your water intake daily helps with monitoring hydration levels. Ensure you have a water-bottle and are consistently sipping water throughout the night. Watch out for drinks that can dehydrate you like sugary sodas, and caffeinated drinks, ensure you’re drinking enough water to address their effects
• A combination of carbohydrates, proteins, healthy fats and fiber-rich foods can provide sustained energy throughout the day. Here are a few healthy recipe ideas:

1. Suhoor: Overnight oats with fruits and nuts; whole-grain toast with avocado and boiled eggs; vegetable omelette with wholewheat bread, or Greek yogurt parfait with granola, nuts, berries or figs. Aim to have a solid meal with a good complex carbohydrate source (bread, rice pasta etc.) and protein to ensure you feel full for most of the day
2. Iftar: Grilled chicken or fish with rice, quinoa, salad, or roasted vegetables. Lentil soup with wholegrain bread; homemade burritos (tortilla wrap, salads of choice, protein source)

Note: The Islamic Society has free Iftars every single day! To find out more information check the OUISOC instagram, or send an email to the Society's Student Affairs Officer - [email protected]

Breaks and Resting

• Strategic breaks: Take breaks around prayer times and meal breaks, whether it’s a quick walk outside, a few minutes of deep breathing, or a short nap (may be most effective either directly before or directly after Iftar)
• Sleep: try to stick to a consistent sleep schedule despite the changes in your routine during Ramadan
• Stay active: Physical exertion should be limited but, incorporating some movement into your day, like a quick workout after Iftar or Suhoor, or some stretching exercises can help reduce stress and increase energy levels

Maintaining motivation

• Boost your motivation during Ramadan by being aware of your intentions, engaging with the Quran and praying. Take some time to reflect on why you’re doing so and how studies fit into your spiritual growth
• Remember you have your support network, sharing with family or friends can make a big difference!
• Additionally, further support is offered by colleges in terms of Welfare Officers or Muslim Representatives in your college, and the OUISOC Student Affairs Officer is also open to any and all welfare or academic concerns or stresses. Email: [email protected]

How to be a respectful with friends that are observing Ramadan

• Be mindful of your friends’ fasting and prayer schedules, keeping in mind when they will be breaking their fast, night prayers, or other religious commitments they have during this time period, when planning or scheduling activities
• Take time to learn about Ramadan and its significance. Ask questions, engage in dialogue, and show your support and respect for your Muslim peers!

What is Ramadan?

• Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and an important time for Muslims
• During Ramadan, Muslims fast each day from dawn until sunset, meaning they do not eat or drink during daylight hours
• The purpose of fasting is to develop taqwa, understood as being mindful and conscious of God. By stepping away from everyday comforts, Muslims aim to be more aware of their actions and intentions, practise self-discipline, and live with greater kindness, gratitude, and compassion for others
• Alongside fasting, Muslims spend more time in prayer, reflection, and charitable giving, and community life becomes especially important. Each day, the fast is broken at sunset, often with family or friends. Ramadan ends with Eid al-Fitr, a celebration marked by communal prayer, charity, and gathering with loved ones