What is Ramadan?

During Ramadan, adult Muslims fast each day from dawn (Suhoor) until sunset (Iftar). This means refraining from food and drink during daylight hours, as well as striving to improve behaviour, kindness, patience, and self-control. The fast is broken each evening with family and friends, often beginning with dates and water.

Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, making it a central act of worship in the Muslim faith.

Why Do Muslims Observe Ramadan?

Ramadan commemorates the period when the Qur’an was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Muslims observe Ramadan to strengthen their relationship with God, develop empathy for those less fortunate, and reflect on their actions and intentions.

It is also a time when acts of charity, gratitude, and compassion are especially encouraged, reinforcing the importance of community and care for others.

The Benefits of Fasting – Faith and Science

While Ramadan fasting is a spiritual practice, modern science has also highlighted benefits that align with intermittent fasting, a pattern increasingly studied in health and medical research.

Current research suggests that intermittent fasting may:

-Support improved metabolic health
-Help regulate blood sugar levels
-Encourage the body to use stored energy more efficiently
-Promote cellular repair processes
-Support digestive health
-Improve focus, discipline, and mental clarity

It is important to note that Ramadan fasting is about far more than physical health, however, it is interesting to see how modern scientific studies reflect some of the benefits that Muslims have practiced for centuries.

Respect, Support, and Inclusion at Nottingham Academy

At Nottingham Academy, we commend and deeply respect all students and staff who observe fasting during Ramadan. We recognise that this can be both spiritually rewarding and physically challenging, particularly alongside daily learning and teaching commitments.

We are proud of our diverse community and the mutual respect shown across different cultures, beliefs, and traditions. Acts of understanding, kindness, and consideration during this time help strengthen our school community as a whole.

A Message of Solidarity and Celebration

Ramadan is a time for gratitude, togetherness, generosity, and spending time with loved ones.

We would like to wish all our students, families, and staff at Nottingham Academy a joyful, peaceful, and prosperous Ramadan. May it be filled with happiness, reflection, and cherished moments with family and friends.

Ramadan Mubarak from everyone at Nottingham Academy.