Welcoming Ramadan: Faith, Fasting, and Community

At Vibrant, we believe that health is more than just physical— we know that proper nutrition is the foundation of overall health. That is why we want to highlight Ramadan, a special time when many in our community focus on spiritual growth, self-discipline, and mindful eating. Observing Ramadan encourages healthy habits, thoughtful nutrition, and community connection—values that align closely with our mission to support wellness in every aspect of life.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and it is considered the holiest month for Muslims. It is a time focused on spiritual reflection, self‑discipline, and compassion. Many people know Ramadan because of the fasting, but the month is really about becoming a better version of yourself by practicing kindness, patience, generosity, and mindfulness.

Because Ramadan follows a lunar calendar, the dates change every year. It moves about ten to eleven days earlier each year on the regular calendar. The month lasts twenty‑nine or thirty days depending on the moon sighting. This year, Ramadan is set to begin on either the 17th or 18th of February.

Muslims observe Ramadan for several reasons: to strengthen their relationship with God through prayer and reflection, to practice self‑control by avoiding food, drink, and negative behaviours during daylight hours, to build empathy for people who experience hunger or hardship, and to increase charity and community connection.

Fasting during Ramadan means not eating or drinking from dawn until sunset. The day begins with a pre‑dawn meal called suhoor, and the fast is broken at sunset with iftar, often starting with dates and water. After sunset, there is special prayer that is performed in congregation during the night. This prayer is special because it occurs only during the month of Ramadan.

Even though fasting can be challenging, Ramadan is a joyful and community‑focused month. Families and friends gather for iftar meals, mosques are more active, and people make a conscious effort to be generous and kind. The month ends with a celebration called Eid al‑Fitr, which is a festival of gratitude, food, and family.

Wishing everyone who is observing a peaceful and blessed month.

Ramadan Mubarak from all of us at Vibrant.