If you live in Dubai, the UAE or the Middle East, you would have experienced a few Holy Months of Ramadan in your time. The past couple of years, Ramadan has fallen during the very hot summer months when most Dubai residents are off on their summer holidays. This year, however, the month has fallen in June, meaning that schools are still in term and the majority of Dubai residents are here.
For those of you who don't know, summers in the UAE reach scorching temperatures, far too hot to enjoy the great outdoors. Most time is spent in air conditioned malls or homes. During Ramadan, Muslims fast during the day-light hours, breaking their fasts at Iftar (sunset) and resuming at Suhoor (sunrise). As a form of respect, non-Muslims refrain from eating & drinking in public places.
I've been in Dubai the past few years during Ramadan, and like to look upon the Holy Month as a time to restore my health and treat my body properly. However, the call of Iftar buffets and delicious Arabic sweets are never too far away! Here are some handy tips to get through the Holy Month, and the rest of the hot hot summer!
1. Keep Hydrated
This is a bit of a no brainer, but often, when respecting religion and culture, we forget to drink enough H2O both during the day, or at night if fasting. Making sure we get at least 2 to 3 litres of water over 24 hours will help keep fatigue at bay. If fasting, remember the temperatures are incredibly high and we lose a lot of water simply through perspiration, so it is especially important to rehydrate between Iftar and Suhoor. If exercising, even more hydration is required during the 24 hour period! A tip to consuming plenty of water, is to make sure your fridge is stocked with water bottles, that way it's always cold, refreshing and on hand!
2. Eat Light
The (only) benefit of 45* heat is that it reduces your appetite, at least for heavy, hot meals. Take advantage of Arabic cuisine and enjoy fattoush, tabouleh, hummus and other, highly nutritious and especially delicious dishes. Not only are they fresh and light, but Arabic dishes are pretty healthy, usually consisting of grilled meats and fresh salads and vegetables. Steer clear of deep fried, greasy foods and opt for foods that are easy to digest, and hydrating in their own right.
Also, avoid eating a lot in one sitting. Iftar buffets are great and a lovely way to learn about culture and socialise with friends during the Holy Month, but like any buffet they provide the opportunity to over indulge, especially if you show up starving! Again, fill up on vegetables and lean protein to avoid feeling full and uncomfortable after, but it is a celebration after all, so if you want a small sweet treat, then go ahead! Dried fruits are especially accessible during the Holy Month, so make the most of delicious dried figs and dates!
3. Light Exercise
One way of keeping energy levels up is by breaking a sweat and getting those endorphins pumping. During the hot summer months, and especially if fasting, vigorous exercise can cause over exertion, resulting in injuries and illness. Instead, opt for things like yoga, long walks or gently swimming laps. It will still make you feel great, but will give your body an opportunity to rest and recuperate. Of course, if you're not fasting and staying hydrated, there is no reason why you can't attend a HIIT class or sprint training, just consider combining some more gentle workouts into your routine.
4. Indulge in the Culture
I think one of the best parts of the Holy Month is experiencing the generosity and rich Arabic culture of Dubai and the UAE. Take it as an opportunity to learn about the history, and share in the joy that is evident during this month. Ask your Muslim friends and colleagues about Ramadan, and watch their faces light up when they teach you about their family traditions. It is a lovely time of year, and the perfect opportunity to embrace the heritage and culture of the country we live in.
Ramadan Kareem to you all!
V x
