Ramadan is a period of fasting, reflection, devotion, generosity and sacrifice observed by Muslims around the world. During the holy month one can easily include some yoga practices to stay energised and healthy.
Due to fasting energy in the body becomes limited as fewer calories are consumed due to the lengthy gap between the beginning and the breaking of the fast. During this gap the digestive system gets a break and therefore the body goes into a state of detoxification. Including some gentle yoga postures can aid in this process and keep the body from feeling sluggish. Yoga postures and breathing exercises accelerate the elimination of these toxins which may otherwise remain in the system resulting in side effects such as headaches and a general feeling of tiredness.
The yoga practice should avoid dynamic movements and include calming poses and breathing exercises which focus on the mind and soul. Gentle yoga postures done especially before breaking the fast helps to re-energise the body.
Breathing exercises are also important and are a very beneficial aspect for those who are fasting. They increase the oxygen in the body’s cells and balance hormone production. The result is a stabilised, relaxed and fresh body, and more energy.
Contrary to the modern view of yoga where the focus is entirely on the physical practices, another important aspect of yoga is meditation. The act of fasting gives us an opportunity to stop and take time out from our incessant pursuit of pleasure and desire. Often we eat unmindfully to deal with stress thus making unwise choices with our food. This practice of fasting during Ramadan brings up all the craving and how led we are by our desires and impulses. Not giving into them and spending time to introspect is a vital part to having a better relationship with food and all that life offers us. Yoga has many meditation techniques which can help to calm us down and bring us back into balance when it becomes difficult or challenging to continue through the day while fasting.
Just as fasting is not only about hunger and thirst, yoga is not only about exercise - they both purify the body, mind and soul.
With thanks to Aparajita Ghose, Fitness First.