For the non Muslims among you, Rabi al Awwal is the third month of the Islamic calendar. Also known as ‘the first spring’ it is the month when the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was born, and the month in which he also dies. Consequently, it is a month which holds great importance for Muslims around the world. Although there is no specific festival held during the month, Muslims use it as an opportunity for much introspection and reflection, and a dedication to forming better habits.
The beneficial effects of fasting
Although fasting is usually associated with the ninth month of the Islamic calendar – Ramadan – it is also encouraged throughout the rest of the year.
Spiritually, Muslims see fasting as a way of showing gratitude to Allah for His countless favors, and many decide to fast on a Monday throughout Rabi al Awwal. Why a Monday? It was the day the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was born on, and the day the Quran was revealed to him.
As a result Monday has special significance. Fasting on a Monday allows Muslims to strengthen their commitment to showing gratitude to Allah and the messengers that he has sent.
Not only will fasting benefit an individual spiritually, but it will also help to improve their physical health too. Fasting has been the topic of much research and scientific studies, and has been shown to completely overturn the health deficiencies in thousands of people. Specific benefits include: weight loss, improved blood sugar control, lower blood pressure and cholesterol, reduction and elimination of inflammation, improved cognition. There is even evidence of cancer prevention and stem cell regeneration.
Fasting is a great pattern interrupt if you are struggling to control your food habits. It requires discipline and a strong mindset, which is why it is an activity that is so incorporated into religion.
Nurture your gratitude attitude
Within Islam, there is a great tradition of reciting salutations upon the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as a way of showing gratitude and appreciation for his love and guidance. And repeating these salutations in groups with family and friends makes them even more powerful.
“Mu’awiyah(ra) said, ‘The Messenger of Allah (SW) went out to a circle – meaning, of his companions – and said, “What made you sit together?” They said, “We sat together to pray to Allah, praise him for guiding us to His religion and blessing us with you.” He said, “I ask you by Allah, is that the only reason that caused you to sit together?” They said, “By Allah, we have not sat together for anything other than that”. He said, I am not asking you to swear to an oath because of any suspicion, rather Jibril(as) came to me and told me that Allah, the Mighty and Sublime, is boasting of you to the angels.” (Nasa’i).
As a result, Muslims are encouraged to further extend the number of salutations they make during the month of Rabi al Awwal.
Equally, the act of gratitude has been proven to have a significant impact on your overall wellbeing. Showing simple acts of gratitude to small and inconsequential areas of your life can compound over time to improve blood pressure and your overall immune system, help heart health, improve sleep and general mood. It is also shown to lower stress, anxiety and depression.
It is for this reason that gratitude journals have increased in popularity over the last few years, and why they are regularly recommended as a therapeutic tool for those who are particularly suffering from stress and anxiety. Taking time out to look around the world and feel gratitude and appreciation helps to gain a better, more balanced perspective on the world.
