By FastJobs
Staying Focused At Work During Ramadan
Ramadan is one of the holiest months on the Islamic calendar, during which we would observe fasts and spiritual activities. For those who are working, it can be a challenge to balance work and religious obligations while maintaining focus and productivity. Let us look into the benefits and tips of how to stay focused at work while fasting.
Health Benefits Of Fasting
Proven by science, there are many health benefits when one fast. Fasting promotes blood sugar control which would be good for those at risk of diabetes. It aids weight loss and boosts the body's metabolism, enhances heart health, and many more.
So, Why Do Muslims Fast?
According to MUIS ( Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura), Ramadan is a special season that brings bounties and blessings from Allah. It is a month for believers to train and control their desires, and enhance their spirituality.

Firstly fasting, it is known for a Muslim having control over him/herself. Secondly, fasting inculcates the value of compassion towards others. Only when one feels hungry and thirsty can one truly empathize with the poor and needy, who may have very little food to consume in their lives. Feeling such will encourage one to assist and contribute to their well-being.

Here are some tips to help our Muslim friends to work optimally while fasting.

1
Plan Ahead
The biggest challenge people face during Ramadan is keeping their minds focused as hunger and sleep deprivation can kick in as a distraction.

Plan your day, one day before heading to work and keep towards the plan. Try to schedule tasks such as meetings and other interpersonal interactions at the start of the day.
High-priority tasks should be done first. The least important tasks can be done towards the end of the day.
2
Take Breaks
During lunchtime, it is essential to take a rest and refresh your mind. Take a short nap or meditate for a few minutes to regain your focus.
3
Eat Sufficiently During Sahur
While refueling your energy during sahur, you don't have to overeat. Overeating will cause you to feel drowsy and unenergized. Choose balanced menus of carbohydrates such as brown rice or wholesome bread, protein such as meat or fish and seafood, and fiber such as red dates in your intake. Foods such as fruits and vegetables are rich in fiber and they help to keep you feeling full longer.
4
Sleeping Time Adjustment
If you are a night owl who enjoys sleeping late, we recommend you sleep earlier. During Ramadan, it is not possible to you to sleep for 8 hours. Instead, try to go to bed by 11pm and have four hours of sleep following iftar, then wake up at 3.30 am ready for suhoor and fajr and return back to sleep at around 5am for two hours.

How Companies Can Support Employees During The Fasting Month
  • 1
    Offer Flexible Hours
    Muslim employees may require certain changes in their working hours during the holy month of Ramadan to align with their fasting routine. This may involve starting work earlier in the day and ending work earlier in the afternoon to have their iftar (breaking of fast) with family members and perform their prayers offered only during Ramadan. This flexibility can take the form of permitting them to work from home, adjusting their lunch breaks, or allowing them to commence and finish work earlier.
  • 2
    Have An Allocated Prayer Room
    During Ramadan,Muslims perform five daily prayers, these prayers hold even greater importance. As an employer, you can demonstrate support for your Muslim employees' religious practices by providing a prayer room at the workplace, which enables them to fulfill their religious obligations while at work.
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