Celebrating Ramadan at TH: Sharing Experiences and Showing Support

Understanding Ramadan

Ramadan is a particularly important month for Muslims around the world, marked by fasting, prayer, and reflection. “From dawn to sunset, we fast from food, drink, and purely focus on spiritual growth, self-discipline, and acts of charity,” says Faiza. “It’s special because it marks when the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad,” adds Megi. “For me, Ramadan is a time to grow spiritually, practise self-control, and become more compassionate towards others, especially those who are struggling.”

The core practices of Ramadan include fasting, prayer, and charity. Fasting from dawn to sunset is a way for Muslims to practise self-discipline and empathy for those less fortunate. Prayer is intensified during this month, with additional prayers beyond the usual five daily prayers. Charity is also emphasised, with Muslims encouraged to give more to those in need. “There’s an element of refraining from saying something bad or having negative influences around you to just keep sharing that prosperity,” says Ahmad. “Think of it as: everyone is uncomfortable, hungry and tired, so there’s a stronger connection between people and it helps you reflect a lot stronger on the privileges you usually have that you don’t get to experience during that time.”

The Challenges and Rewards

Physical Challenges

The physical challenges of Ramadan can be significant, especially in the first few days. “One of the biggest challenges during Ramadan is managing energy levels while fasting,” says Faiza, “especially during long workdays. The first few days are the hardest as my body adjusts to the new routine.” “Fatigue is often a challenge,” says Megi, “especially in the beginning.” In the office environment, it can be particularly hard at first until your body adapts. “You know, a lot of people drink coffee in the morning,” says Ahmad, ”and I hear a lot of that quite consistently on the first few days, but you’d be surprised how quickly your body adapts.”

Spiritual Rewards

Despite the physical challenges, the spiritual rewards of Ramadan are profound. “The most rewarding aspects of Ramadan for me include a deep sense of spiritual fulfilment, inner peace, and personal growth, reflects Megi. ”Fasting teaches me patience, self-control, and gratitude, and I feel closer to my faith”. Ahmad echoes this: “The more religious praying is the most rewarding aspect. We live in a really fast-paced world and sometimes it’s hard to just be grateful and acknowledge the life you have. My favourite thing is just seeking repentance and sticking to my humility.”

“For me, the most rewarding aspects of observing Ramadan are the spiritual growth, self-discipline, and sense of community it brings,” says Faiza. Fasting helps me strengthen my connection with God through increased prayer, Quran recitation, and self-reflection.”

Balancing Work and Faith

Balancing work and faith during Ramadan can be challenging. “During fasting hours, staying focused and productive at work can be tough,” says Megi. “The hunger and thirst can distract from work tasks, and adjusting to meal breaks can disrupt the usual flow of the workday.”

To accommodate the change in energy levels, managing when in the workday to tackle work is important. “Ramadan significantly shifts my daily routine and work habits,” explains Faiza, “requiring more discipline and time management… I try to be most productive in the morning when my energy is higher, prioritising important tasks before midday.”

Despite the challenges, the experience can teach you about yourself and what your true needs are. “You’d be surprised at how unneeded stuff is, like coffee,” says Ahmad. “I’d always tell myself these days, ‘I’m feeling sluggish; I’ll grab a cup of coffee, feel energised and go right at it,’ but you’d be surprised after a week or two of not doing that”.

Supporting your colleagues during Ramadan

Support and accommodations from colleagues and the company can make a significant difference during Ramadan. Faiza emphasises the need for supportive measures: “During Ramadan, supportive colleagues and a considerate workplace can make a big difference. Understanding and flexibility with schedules are especially helpful, such as allowing earlier start times or shorter meetings in the afternoon when energy levels dip. Offering a quiet space for prayer or reflection is greatly appreciated.”

“Honestly, last year was very good I think everyone around me was aware I was fasting, says an appreciative Ahmad. ”People kept forgetting and they’d be like, ‘Hey, would you like this chocolate or sweet?’. I’d tell them I’m fasting and you can see the dread in their faces, and they would tell me they’re so sorry, but I think that shows character.”

“It’s important for colleagues and the company to recognise that fasting can lead to physical fatigue and sometimes a decrease in energy,” says Megi, “which might affect productivity, especially during the afternoon. When you’re fasting, you don’t have the energy boost from meals or drinks, which can lead to slower reactions, concentration issues, and even a bit of irritability.”

By understanding and accommodating the needs of Muslim employees during Ramadan, companies can foster a more inclusive and supportive work environment. “We’re a very multicultural office,” says Ahmad. “Everyone understands there are differences in beliefs and cultures, and there’s more curiosity around it than judgement, which I think is a great recipe for a company.”

TH is to create a supportive and understanding environment for all our employees, especially during significant periods like Ramadan. By being mindful of fasting practices, offering flexibility, and fostering a culture of respect, we aim to ensure our Muslim colleagues feel valued and supported. We encourage everyone to take these considerations to heart, not just during Ramadan, but throughout the year. Let’s continue to build a truly inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. 

And to all our colleagues observing the holy month – Ramadan Kareem!