Practical Guide to Prepare for Ramadan

We’re now passing through Rajab. Ramadan might still feel far away, but the days will pass quickly. How we spend them can set a strong foundation for a fulfilling Ramadan. Below are some easy ideas from the Quran, Prophetic teachings, and early Muslim practices. Start now and avoid feeling rushed later.

Make the Most of the Remaining Days of Rajab

“O Allah, bless us in Rajab and Sha’ban and allow us to reach Ramadan.”

(Often recited for its beautiful meaning, though its chain of narration is debated.)

Rajab, Sha’ban, and Ramadan form a spiritual journey. Rajab is a sacred month, so don’t miss out on its blessings. Ask yourself: How can I make the most of the rest of Rajab?

Tip: Add a simple new act of worship if you haven’t already. This could be one extra page of Quran daily or two extra rak’ahs of prayer at night.

Look Ahead to Sha’ban

Narrated Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her):

The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) used to fast all of Sha’ban, he used to fast Sha’ban except a few days

Sahih al-Bukhari

Try Gentle Fasting
If you have a couple of weeks left in Rajab, try fasting one or two days to warm up. Then keep the momentum going in Sha’ban. For example: pick Mondays and Thursdays or the “white days” (13th, 14th, 15th of the lunar month) to fast. You’ll train your body and mind gradually.

Consistency Over Quantity
Don’t burn out by overdoing it. If you’re new to voluntary fasting, ease into it. If you’re already used to it, add a bit more but don’t push too hard. The Prophet (peace be upon him) advised against burdening yourself so close to Ramadan.

Set Spiritual Goals and Reflect

O believers! Fasting is prescribed for you—as it was for those before you¹—so perhaps you will become mindful ˹of Allah˺.

Qur’an 2:183

Read More Quran
If you want to complete a full Quran reading in Ramadan (khatm), start small now. A few pages in Rajab and Sha’ban can help you build a strong habit.

Example: read one page after Fajr and one page after Maghrib. Increase gradually when Ramadan comes.

Boost Your Dhikr
Short phrases like “SubhanAllah”, “Alhamdulillah”, “La ilaha illallah” and “Allahu Akbar” are powerful. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said they are beloved to Allah.

Example: If you commute, use that time for dhikr. Set phone reminders to say “Astaghfirullah” (I seek Allah’s forgiveness) a few times a day.

End-of-Day Reflection
Check in with yourself each night. Ask if you gossiped, wasted time, or missed any good deeds. This self-check helps you see where you need to improve before Ramadan.

Example: Use a small notebook to write a one-sentence reflection each evening.

Prepare Your Body and Lifestyle

Shift Your Sleep Pattern
Ramadan often involves late-night Taraweeh and early-morning Suhoor. Start sleeping and waking up 15 minutes earlier (or later) each week. This small change can help you adjust without feeling tired.

Example: Go to bed at 10:45 PM instead of 11:00 PM. Wake up at 6:45 AM instead of 7:00 AM. Keep adjusting in small steps.

Eat and Drink More Wisely
Ramadan often means big changes in daily eating and drinking habits. Start easing your body into these changes now. Cut down on extra snacks now. Drink more water. This prevents a big shock to your system.

Example: If you drink two or three cups of coffee daily, reduce it to one. Replace sugary snacks with fruits for a few weeks. Your body will thank you later.

Work on Character and Behavior

Narrated Ibn `Abbas:

Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) was the most generous of all the people, and he used to be more generous in the month of Ramadan when Gabriel used to meet him….

Sahih al-Bukhari

Start Giving Now
Ramadan is known for charity. But start small in Rajab and Sha’ban. Build the habit.

Example: If you plan to donate a certain amount in Ramadan, set aside a little each week now. You’ll be consistent and better prepared.

Tame Your Tongue and Emotions
Fasting isn’t just about food. It’s also about controlling anger, harsh speech, and bad habits. Start practicing calm reactions.

Example: When you feel upset, pause and take a deep breath. Respond only after you’re calmer.

Improve Relationships

Seek Forgiveness and Reconnect
Before Ramadan, try to mend broken ties. The Prophet (peace be upon him) stressed the importance of good family and community relations.

Example: If there’s someone you haven’t spoken to in a while, message them a simple greeting or well wishes. A small gesture can lead to healing.

Involve Family and Friends
Group goals can help you stay motivated. Share Quran readings or fasting progress with people you trust.

Example: Create a small WhatsApp group to track daily worship. Offer friendly reminders or share tips on healthy suhoor meals.

Aim for Steady Progress, Not Perfection

Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship…

Qur’an 2:185

Building good habits in Rajab and Sha’ban should not be stressful. It’s okay if you miss a fasting day or skip some Quran reading. What matters is getting back on track.

Example: If you planned two fasts a week but only managed one, it’s not the end of the world. Think about the reason. Adjust for next week.

Practical Tips for Working Professionals

Plan Your Suhoor and Iftar
Busy mornings and long commutes can drain you. Plan ahead and create strategy for your suhoor and iftar after work! Keep the suhoor and iftar schedules handy.

Example: Prepare simple, healthy suhoor meals the night before. Think oatmeal, yogurt parfaits, or boiled eggs.

Manage Your Work Schedule
If you work from 9 to 5, find moments for quick prayer breaks or mini-dhikr sessions.

Example: Use your lunch break for a short prayer, Quran reading, or silent reflection instead of scrolling on your phone.

Communicate with Your Team
Let your boss or coworkers know you’ll be fasting. They might offer flexible hours or a calm space if you need a moment to recharge.

Example: Send a polite email explaining the month of Ramadan and mention you may need slight adjustments in your break schedule.

Handle Coffee Breaks and Snacks
Office culture often revolves around coffee and snacks.

Example: If you can’t cut coffee fully, reduce it step by step. If team members ask why you’re skipping snacks, give them a simple explanation about Ramadan preparation.

Keep a Water Bottle Handy
Staying hydrated is vital, especially before Ramadan.

Example: Refill your bottle each time you finish it. This simple act keeps you mindful of your water intake.

Final Thoughts

This is mid of Rajab, which means there’s still time to take advantage of what’s left in this blessed month. Then comes Sha’ban, which leads right into Ramadan. Each small step now can make a huge difference when you start fasting.

• Recenter: Renew your intentions daily.
• Build Habits: Small, consistent worship is better than big bursts that fade.
• Seek Mercy & Forgiveness: Use this time to repent and cleanse your heart.
• Envision Ramadan: Picture how you want your prayers, charity, and character to improve.

May Allah bless the remaining days of Rajab for you, guide you in Sha’ban, and help you reach Ramadan in the best state—both physically and spiritually. Ameen.

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