SUNDAY 29 JUNE 2014

ITH the advent of the breaking the fast or after Taraaweeh prayer. holy month of in Qatar, people express their delight by putting TRADITIONAL QATARI up lanterns and decora- tions. Children play with Qatari citizens prepare for Ramadan by buy- Wtheir toys in the streets; writers and journal- ing various traditional food. This is noticed a ists devote their writings to religious matters; few days before Ramadan, when supermarkets preachers deliver speeches and sermons and and malls are crowded with shoppers. There is the media presents TV programmes focusing an increasing demand for certain food items on Islamic discourses and lectures. motivated by the special Ramadan offers and During Ramadan, the working hours are attractive discounts on the prices of all goods reduced, which makes the streets, shopping in general, and Ramadan staples in particular. malls, markets and entertainment centres Among the most famous dishes that the quite crowded. Qatari women purchase and Qatari people eat is Al-Harees, which is store special spices for this month, prepare essential fare on their table in Ramadan. milk and rice, and produce clarified butter It consists from mashed wheat mixed with from the milk of cows and sheep, which meat, clarified butter and ground cinnamon. they distribute to their friends, family and Another essential item on the in neighbours. Ramadan is Ath-Thareed, which consists of Life in Qatar has two dimensions during the tiny pieces of bread with gravy poured over blessed month of Ramadan: The first is the it. In addition to Al-Harees and Ath-Thareed, life of the foreign residents, as Qatar lodges Al-Majboos is also considered among the millions of people from various Arab and most popular traditional dishes, which are Muslim countries. These residents try to repli- always present on the tables during Ramadan. cate the distinctive customs and traditions of There are many types of Qatari sweets their homeland in the month of Ramadan. The that are served in Ramadan. Among these is other aspect is the life led by Qatari citizens, Al-Muhallabiyyah, which consists of rice and who take great care to revive their age-old milk topped with saffron and cardamom. They traditions and customs. also eat Al-Madhroobah and Al-Luqaymaat Qatari families renew and strengthen their (sweet dumplings). ties this month, due to the frequent meetings Immediately after the Taraaweeh prayer, and visits among their relatives and friends. the men meet together for the midnight These mutual visits help in strengthening the called Al-Ghibqah. After that, they spend bonds of kinship between family members — the evening in friendly conversation over which is an important Islamic virtue — as they Ramadan sweets. Women also meet after meet each other nearly every day to break the Taraaweeh for leisurely soirees lasting a few fast collectively, and during the family gath- hours. During Al-Ghibqah, special dishes are erings after the Taraaweeh prayer (voluntary served like Al-Mehammar, which is a of night prayer). fried fish and rice cooked with sugar, in addi- Strengthening Another distinguishing feature of Ramadan tion to Al-Hareesah and Al-Madhroobah. in Qatar is the sound of cannons being fired During the month of Ramadan, citizens to indicate the time for breaking the fast. and residents both hasten to give charity to However, the profession of Al Musahhir (the the poor and needy people to get closer to man who used to wake up people to eat Allah The Almighty. Besides, when the time Suhoor before daybreak) has completely of approaches, a variety of are vanished. distributed among the fasting people who are bonds of kinship Masjids usually witness an overwhelmingly unable to reach their homes in time to break large number of worshippers and religious their fast. discourses are held either before the time of WWW.ISLAMWEB.NET

SUNDAY 29 JUNE 2014 III

HARQ Village and Spa pudding with pistachio and almonds. meat, and mouth-watering selections celebrates the Holy As dusk falls each evening, guests of hot dishes including whole Ouzzi Month of Ramadan with with a sweet tooth will be delighted lamb. A selection of puddings, tarts, festivities that prom- with the that Al Jalsa chocolates and sweets are sure ises to delight everyone. offers. Offering a myriad of Arabic to delight. Evening From the majestic Seher treats and fine blends by Tchaba Al Liwan : 12:30pm to SAl Sharq tent and extravagant buf- including the Al Meerat Al Sharq tea. 4pm. QR295 per person fet spreads to luxurious room stays, CORPORATE hosts wishing to festivities at the hotel will provide an uphold the Arabic traditions of hos- EID BUFFET FOR KIDS authentic Arabian experience. pitality may hold private Iftar events Qatar Airways is proud to be named with bespoke served in the Children will love the Eid kids’ delights at the Official Airline Sponsor of the elegant atmosphere of the Al Sonbok buffet at Al Sonbok. All their favour- exquisitely decorated tents during the ballroom. ite dishes will be available with face month-long festivities at Al Dasha, painting too. Sharq Village and Spa’s ballroom. EID AL FITR IN STYLE Launching for the sixth time; this SHISHA DIWAN Sharq Village year will be the aptly named Seher The Eid is always an ideal oppor- Al Sharq in Al Dasha tunity to celebrate with family and The Shisha Diwan Al Qareb ballroom. Comfortably accommodat- friends the completion of a month offers an exclusive venue to those ing up to 200 guests seated in tra- of blessings and joy. Sharq Village who like to gather with friends ditional majlis settings, guests may and Spa allows guests to relax and with wide variety of Shisha flavours and Spa look forward to a buffet spread like escape while being attended to by the prepared at your table to entertain no-other. dedicated service professionals of the you and your friends during a great This feast for the senses includes resort. gathering. carving stations and over 45 differ- An extravagant Eid buffet is served Al Qareb 2: June 1 to September ent dishes from of the region in our Ramadan Tent during the first 30, 2014 from 6pm to 2am. Entry is as well as a varied array of fresh three days of Eid Al Fitr. Executive free. QR275 per person throughout and tempting , live Hassan Abdallah and his team the holy month of Ramadan entertainment by oriental musicians will showcase a selection of oriental For bookings, please contact (974) coming from Morocco – Al Awtar delicacies including over 35 mezze, 4425 6666, email rc.dohsq.reserva- Al Dahabiya. Shisha aficionados may freshly baked breads, crisp salads, [email protected] or visit www. also look forward to savouring over 25 a sushi station, grilled seafood and ritzcarlton.com/sharqvillage tobacco varieties. Al Dasha Ballroom: 8:30pm to 2am. QR275 per person

IFTAR BUFFET AT AL LIWAN: Chef Ali Hadla showcases exquisitely prepared traditional hot and cold dishes including freshly made breads together with mezze, classic salads, a live station, the peren- nial favourite Ouzzi and Shawarma along with grilled meats, seafood and desserts. Sunset to 10pm QR 215 per person

PERSIAN aficionados can look forward to Meigoo Kabab from the charcoal grill with tiger prawns and butter saffron or Khoresht – E Fesenjan from the simmered clay pot with chicken breast, walnuts and pomegranate sauce. To round off chef Moghadam’s culi- nary creations, guests may sample desserts such as Falude-Ye Shirazi, frozen vermicelli sorbet with rose water or Shole Zard, saffron rice IV SUNDAY 29 JUNE 2014 A strategy to combat thirst

and stay away from with high salin- small amounts of with high sugar ity, such as salted fish and pickles. It is concentration. preferable to replace the salt with drops 2. Drinking plenty of water at the of lemon in as they adjust the taste Suhoor meal protects from thirst dur- just as well. ing the fast. SPICES AND SEASONINGS: FACT: The kidneys expel the extra and foods containing a large proportion water which is not needed by the body of spices and condiments require - after a few hours, leading to disturbance ing large quantities of water following of the fasting person during sleep because ingestion. That is because these foods he needs to go to the bathroom. This absorb water as they are taken, from causes fatigue during the day. the pharynx mouth and stomach caus- 3. Drinking very cold or iced water at ing dryness in the body, and thus the the start of the Iftar quenches thirst. feeling of thirst. So, the fasting person FACT: Drinking iced water at the should avoid spicy foods which beginning of the Iftar severely affects contain a lot of seasoning, especially in the stomach, reducing the efficiency of the Suhoor meal. digestion and leading to the constric- STIMULANTS: It is recommended tion of the capillaries thus causing some that the fasting person reduces the digestive disorders. Therefore, the water amount of stimulants like tea and cof- temperature should be average or only fee because they contain caffeine, which mildly cool, and the fasting person should increases the activity of the kidneys drink it slowly, not all at once. and enhances its role in the excretion 4. Drinking water while eating food of urine. Thus, stimulants increase the provides a greater opportunity for good process of losing water from the body. digestion. It should also be noted that tea and cof- FACT: Drinking water while eating fee cannot be considered alternatives to disrupts the flow of saliva on the food water; because their hot nature does not such that the food does not mix well with allow the fasting person to drink a large the saliva in the mouth, and thus it is amount of them. difficult to digest and the body scarcely SODA DRINKS: They contain carbon benefits from it. Therefore, doctors advise which causes flatulence and a feeling of people not to drink water while eating fullness and prevents the body from using except for very little to help swallow the liquids. Therefore, it is necessary to avoid food. soda drinks during the Iftar meal. 5. Drinking plenty of water after the DIRECT SUNLIGHT: The fasting completion of the food directly helps in person should avoid direct exposure to the process of digestion and extinguishes especially while sweating. The following vegetables and fruits at night and in the sunlight for long periods of time. The thirst. HE feeling of thirst in tips should be taken into account when Suhoor (pre-dawn) meal. This is because ways of mitigating the heat of the sun FACT: Drinking plenty of water after the month of Ramadan dealing with water: they contain considerable amounts of and thus avoiding thirst are as follows: eating directly in fact hampers the diges- becomes intense in sum- • Do not leave the bottle of water for water and fibre that remain for a long time • Taking frequent showers with warm tion process and prevents the digestive mer because the period of a long time after opening it and drink- in the intestines. This actually reduces the water to cool the body and using soap to system from completing its function fasting may extend to more ing it without use because the bacteria feeling of hunger and thirst. get rid of body oils that may block the properly. That is, drinking an abundance than 14 hours a day. The which are present in the mouth and the Cucumber is one of the most popular pores. of water prevents the secretion of gastric Tbody continues to lose water through- environment around us can be active in vegetables that combat thirst because it • Blocking out the sun from entering juices. out these hours. At the time of Iftar (the it and are a source of infection. soothes the thirst and cools the body. It also the house in the afternoon as much as The correct way is that the person fast-breaking meal), one is in urgent need • Wash the bottle and its lid with hot helps to alleviate neurological disorders, possible by closing the blinds or curtains. should drink just a little water after the of prompt and adequate compensation water and soap when refilling it along and it contains nutritious cellulose fibres • Wearing light-coloured and loose Iftar to quench his thirst. The best time for the liquids it lost. However, it is pos- with changing it from time to time. which facilitate the process of digestion, clothes preferably made of cotton to to drink plenty of water is about two sible to help our bodies maintain water, • You can add some healthy elements expel toxins, and cleanse the intestines absorb sweat. hours after Iftar, and it is preferable that resist the feeling of thirst, and reduce to the glass of water you drink, such DELAYING THE SUHOOR MEAL: • Resting to the extent which is com- the fasting person drinks small amounts its intensity by following the principles as slices of lemon, fresh mint leaves or The Sunnah recommends the Muslim to mensurate with the effort done in order of water at intervals during the night of healthy nutrition during the month of grated ginger. delay his Suhoor meal. Therefore, it is to renew the body’s dynamic energy. throughout the period between the Iftar fasting. Therefore, exerting some effort • To get rid of the taste of chlorine preferable to have this meal after mid- and Suhoor meals and not wait to feel to avoid thirst would be easier than bear- pour the water into a large bowl and leave night, so that the fasting person will be 6 MYTHS TO OVERCOME thirsty before drinking water. ing the suffering. it for about one hour before drinking it. able to resist thirst, especially in the first THIRST IN RAMADAN 6. Frequent drinking of water leads LIQUIDS OF ALL TYPES: Particularly days of fasting. The Suhoor meal should 1. Drinking adequate amounts of liq- to obesity. OUR ALLIES AGAINST THIRST hydrating beverages and natural fruit preferably be a light meal. uids with a high concentration of sugar FACT: Recent studies have shown that juices which contain minerals. It is advis- hydrates the body and repels thirst. water plays an important role in losing WATER: Is the best of drinks and able to avoid juices containing unnatural THIEVES STEALING WATER FACT: Liquids with a high concentra- weight because water helps increase the cannot be compensated for by any other substances and colours, which contain FROM THE BODY tion of sugar urge the body to increase secretion of the hormone Noradrenaline drink. Experts recommend drinking one large amounts of sugar. These substances the flow of urine and increase the feeling which increases the activity of the nerv- litre-and-a-half of water daily, prefer- damage health and cause allergies. SALT: Salty foods increase the body’s of thirst. Therefore, it is recommended ous system and increases the burning of ably containing mineral, salts in order to FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETA- need for water; therefore, it is advisable that the fasting person eat sweets moder- fat, and thus helps to get rid of excess compensate the salts that the body loses, BLES: It is preferable to eat fresh to avoid adding a lot of salt on the food ately in Ramadan as well as only drinking weight. WWW.ISLAMWEB.NET Open the door for better attitudes and lifestyle

BY RASHA DEWEDAR only something forbids, but choices for more delicious treats During Ramadan, we often also a very bad and inappropriate with less money spent. find it is more common to lose PIRITUAL energy, behaviour. Try the following tips Google economic meals and our temper and start a shouting motivation, and high that might help you to stop gossip. you’ll find a diversity of choices spell that almost always have an ambition are very cru- Keep yourself busy; get engaged that will certainly include new adverse effect on the children’s cial sides of Ramadan in useful and fruitful activities if things that you didn’t try before attitudes and manners. for almost every your work doesn’t take most of Don’t go to big supermarkets or I know how frustrating it might SMuslim. Having that strong will your time. Focus on your own hypermarkets frequently, make it be when you want to have enough to get over our desires and even mistakes and problems and try once a month or so, because it’s time to pray and do the house our very basic needs for the whole to solve them rather than looking more likely that you’ll be attracted chores while having nagging or month is something we should use into people’s flaws that you won’t by different offers and you might disobedient children. and build on to get the maximum solve by gossip. find yourself buying lots of things Nevertheless, you can rather benefits of Ramadan. Make a gossip watch, in which you don’t really need. let them help you, but how? I believe Ramadan is an excel- you write down your gossip score replicate if we were in the same The time that we should learn Put a strategy that helps you Sit with your children and set lent and unprecedented opportu- and how much you’ve improved situation, or we might act even more about how the poor suffer avoid throwing some of the food them indoor and outdoor activi- nity for to refrain from Invite your friends, your close worse. Being judgemental is not hunger and need, we eat more into the bin, this can be achieved ties according to their age in a bad habits they are used to, and to friends will have a very good detrimental for those whom you and give away the true lesson and by cooking adequate quantity way that they will be completely open the door for better attitudes impact on you if you all agreed judge; it’s more detrimental for spirit of the holy month. of food and quickly pack any occupied by something they like and life style. to do it together and encourage you. After all, it’s your deeds that The good news though, that you remaining food in a suitable con- and a goal they want to achieve. each other. will be presented to God, is that can change this habit and act as a tainer that preserves it without Encourage them to give more NO GOSSIP? Always keep in mind that no what you want God to see just to model for your family and friends. changing its taste for future use. time to prayers and Qur’an recit- It is very common for some one is perfect and everyone has have fun for few moments? Plan for Ramadan budget In case of family or friends ing by arranging competitions Muslims to avoid gossip in his/her own defects or mistakes. beforehand; you can have a good gatherings, food that can be between them and their peers. Ramadan as they believe it will So, don’t criticise people’s defects THINK ECONOMIC OR control early enough with a plan kept in the fridge for a while, or Look at Ramadan with new spoil their fasting, however, they while you have your own!. STOP OVERSPENDING? that extends to most of the details pack the remaining food and give eyes; make it a life changing expe- go back to gossip after Ramadan Depicting others in their Moving to another subject that so you don’t have any surprises. it right away to the needy people rience rather than a season for without feeling any guilt! absence is neither an honourable is always present in Ramadan, Include only necessary items nearby. more prayers and worship. Make Well, Ramadan can be a very nor a courageous thing, if you how to go more economic in the that work for both healthy and Go to more than one place use of this unique opportunity good start for attempts to experi- want real benefit, think of a bet- holy month? low budget meals Reconsider when you buy groceries, clothes, to have the whole family join- ence life without gossip and sur- ter way to deliver your message It’s very ironical that some things you think basic, some of or anything else. It will take you ing hands and working together prisingly, you’ll find out that you as a polite advice. Muslims spend in Ramadan them might be not. Talk with relatively long time at the begin- to get over their individual mis- lose nothing. But, this will should Sometimes we tend to criti- double what they spend in other your family and children and ning, but will save you a lot when take and step forward in their last forever and we should always cise behaviours and attitudes of months and guess what? They discuss with them how you can you learn where you buy what. interrelations. refrain from gossip that is not someone, which we might easily spent the excess money on food. all cooperate and plan for better CONTROL YOUR TEMPER WWW.ONISLAM.NET SUNDAY 29 JUNE 2014 V Arabic flavours come to life at The Ritz-Carlton

HE Ritz-Carlton, Doha cel- Executive Assistant Manager of Food and mouth-watering contemporary dishes ebrates the Holy Month of Beverage. that combine a selection of meats with a Ramadan with festivities There will be a diverse selection of food wide range of accompaniments. that promise delighting and beverage stations to accommodate the Quench your thirst with traditional everyone in an exquisite most demanding palate. Assortments of Ramadan juices like Jelab, Karkadel, most welcoming ambience. traditional Arabic cuisine, augmented by Laban, Tamer and Hindi made by an TFrom the majestic tent at Al Wosail and a selection of international delights are expert specifically brought in from Egypt. extravagant buffet spreads, festivities available from the Gazebos, located in Al Alternatively, coffee severs will continu- at the hotel will provide an authentic Wosail foyer. ally parade throughout the tent offering a Arabian experience. In keeping with Arabic tradition, wide selection of Arabic teas and coffees, The Ritz-Carlton, Doha is offering a two Sharwarma stations will also offer also with an extensive selection of Shisha multitude of traditional and diverse expe- available in a variety of flavours such as riences designed to captivate the true apple, strawberry, grape an many more. essence of Ramadan. During the month of Ramadan for Continuous live performances are pro- those wishing to sit back and relax in the vided in the completely new grand pavil- quiet of the Lobby Lounge, Arabic sweets ion tent that is elegantly decorated with and pastries including coffee and tea will the traditional spirit of Souq Waqif col- be available from sunset to 1 am. ours and setting. Habanos, La Mer restaurant, Level Complementing the grand pavilion tent 23, Flamingos & The Living Room and is an assortment of four exceptionally Admiral shall be closed throughout the designed VIP tents that provide a higher Holy month while Porcini restaurant will level of privacy and comfort for up to eight preserve the Italian custom, every day guests, which are located in the main tent from 7pm to 11pm. in Al Wosail ballroom. The Iftar and Sohour menus will have a “This year’s Ramadan tent is a devia- five-day rotational menu to equate to every tion from the norm. It is built in such guests need and desires. Festivities at the way as to meet the earnest need of our Ramadan tent commence every evening guests during Ramadan who look forward from 9pm untill 1am. A special offer for to experiencing something fresh and new. groups throughout the Holy Month will We have added more live entertainment be offered at Lagoon Restaurant. and have kept the proven ones like the Booking: Contact reservations on +974 Tanoura Dance, Henna and thetradi- 4484 8000 or go to our webpage www.ritz- tional Arabic band,” says Subin Dharman, carlton.com/doha for more information.

VIII SUNDAY 29 JUNE 2014

ITH Ramadan under way, now is a good time to reflect Won our behaviour and the val- ues that we hold dear, making sure that they are in line with the standards that Allah the Almighty has set for us all. This can be one of the greatest chal- lenges for believers. The world today celebrates superficiality and excess, placing greater value on material posses- sions. We often concern ourselves more with what others think of us, what we own, and our outward appearance, and less with that which pleases Allah the Almighty, which would do us the most good in this life and the next. Many of us are caught up in materialism and fail to appreciate the bounties Allah generously allows each of us to secure in this life. We waste our time obsessively accumulating and consuming more “stuff” than we need, and wastefully tossing the excess aside rather than sharing what we have with those who are less fortunate. If you are so caught up in show- ing off your latest car, outfit, or Curb extravagance diamond rings, how can you con- centrate your efforts on helping those in need? Where does Allah currently rank in your life? In Ramadan, we typically spend our days fasting during the daylight hours, abstaining and waste of food from food. Food is a valuable resource often taken for granted. According to a research published what is no longer in fashion not for consideration this Ramadan: clothing might be of help to on the Internet, 15 percent of the Many celebrate the month of Ramadan only increases the accumulation EAT LESS: Be mindful of the someone. Organise a food and world’s population have more of “disposable clothing” which is tendency to overeat when break- clothing drive for Muslim than enough to eat, 60 percent with endless of food, lavish nightly no longer worn simply because of ing the fast at the end of each brothers and sisters worldwide of them have just enough to eat, celebrations going on into the morning prevailing fashion trends. day. Remember the Prophet’s who are in need while 25 percent of them do not There is nothing wrong with (PBUH) advice regarding filling As we know, many of our have enough food to eat. hours, etc. During these celebrations liking beautiful clothing and our stomachs with 1/3 of food, brothers and sisters are suffering During the month-long fast making an effort to look nice, 1/3 of water, leaving the other due to effects of war or natural of this blessed month, we are there is non-stop eating, justified by the but we must be careful not to go third for breath. disasters. Organising an event to encouraged to turn our thoughts nightfall. This has a negative effect on both to extremes in our appearance. DONATE FOOD: After a gather food, clothing, household, to those less fortunate in life who No one can reasonably keep up large meal following Iftar (fast- personal care/hygiene products, feel hunger and thirst through- the body and the mind. Obesity, laziness, with the rapidly multiplying styles breaking meal) where large and financial aid to these areas is out the entire year. This should being cranked out by the fashion amounts of perishable food are a good way to share resources and create a sense of empathy so that and a general slack attitude are often the industry. It is also quickly drag- left over, find a local shelter or wealth. Set up a discussion group we may provide the necessary results of this overindulgence. ging consumers deeper into finan- to donate the leftovers or seminar for youth on the topic of aid and charity when a need is cial debt. to. Non-perishable items could consumerism and its effects. There determined. Two negative characteristics be donated to a local food bank. is no way to avoid the aggressive Many of us are blessed to be in all things. Anything over and to avoid participating in such of those who indulge in this sort DONATE CLOTHING: If you marketing and advertising tactics able to walk into our at above is considered a waste. overindulgence. of extravagance are vainglory have an overabundance of clothes that are put into place to get us any time and open a refrigerator Many celebrate the month of Many of us are falling into and showiness. Ramadan is an in good repair that you no longer to spend more money in order to full of food throughout the year. Ramadan with endless buffets of negative spending habits as a opportunity to take some time wear, donate them to your local accumulate more things. Having the blessing of such abun- food, lavish nightly celebrations result of aggressive advertise- to distinguish our true needs Masjid, or contact your Masjid The solution is to educate dance can easily result in waste going on into the morning hours, ments and commercials. The from our wants and reexamine to find out how to find Muslims others and ourselves on the if we fail to remind ourselves etc. During these celebrations fashion industry contributes to the way we utilise our resources in need of clothing, scarves and marketing industry, their true often that this is a blessing from there is non-stop eating, justi- waste by creating trends con- in order to avoid being wasteful other items. Consider organising purpose, and teach others how Allah the Almighty. It is sinful to fied by the nightfall. This has a sumers cannot live without one and extravagant. We must also a clothing drive. to filter the messages being waste such a generosity, and we negative effect on both the body season, then labelling them as remember our obligation to our Many cities have refugees presented so that we do not be as believers are expected to make and the mind. Obesity, laziness, out of style the next. Muslim brothers and sisters here that come into the country with victimised. Preparing our youth good use of our resources and not and a general slack attitude are This merry-go-round of trying and in other countries that are nothing, or perhaps there are against these ruthless tactics is be wasteful or excessive. often the results of this overindul- to stay on top of what is the lat- in need and rely on our generos- many women’s shelters (Muslim essential. Islam encourages moderation gence. We have a moral obligation est style while keeping track of ity. Here are a few suggestions and non-Muslim) where such WWW.ISLAMWEB.NET Make your always ready

BY HASNAA HASSAN the month in a list and buy it all in once with dates, milk, and a subsequent light or twice. Try to be reasonable and don’t meal in the spirit of disciplining one’s VERY day in Ramadan is a waste money. food intake. challenge for Muslim wives, 3. Buy in Bulk Eat simply. Drink . Eat fruit for those who get occupied with But don’t overdo it and seek out fruits dessert. It is healthier for your body and how to prepare their kitchens, and vegetables as needed. Stock up on also shortens your kitchen time. so cooking Iftar becomes an your most commonly used ingredients like 9. Clean while cooking Eeasy mission for them. meat, rice, pasta, (pita) bread, oil, spices. Cleanup is tough during Ramadan, However, it is somehow tricky for List the types of meat and the amounts so clean while you cook to spare your- some women to keep high spirituality of each kind that you will need to cook self from a after getting out of the and Ibadah on track while committing per meal. After buying them, freeze and kitchen. Time is truly the essence of this to a non-stop full time job as housewives label everything. month. and mothers, taking care of children and 4. Set Your Priorities 10. Put a schedule to your appoint- house chores, and preparing meals for the Put your daily plan starting with ments and visits family to enjoy breaking fast together. basic tasks followed by the less impor- Avoid unnecessary outings, and put At the end of the day, Muslim wives find tant ones to you. definite times if you can. Make it clear to themselves spending most of their time in 5. Make a Checklist your family and friends that Ramadan is the kitchen, cooking Iftar, making deserts, In this list, put basic duties as well as a very special time to you and that you’d and preparing drinks and snacks for the extra activities. This will act as a good rather give more time to prayers and kids. This way, Ramadan passes and they reminder as well as an alert if you put too related activities than outings. feel sorry for not being able to seize the much or too less tasks. 11. Prepare for the family visits ahead opportunity and make an advantage of it. 6. Decide what meals you want to cook of time Therefore, many women try to follow ahead of time Inviting guests to Iftar is rewarding, some guidelines and tips from experi- Note them down on a calendar and stick however, it can be a great load as well, enced housewives on how to sharpen their to preparing those meals. Keep the essen- unless you have a good plan for it. Cook saws and manage their schedules, so that tials in cupboards and on shelves that are simple meals that do not need much time they don’t spend their daytimes busy in within your reach to prevent scrambling or effort. Prepare some or most of the the kitchen. In this article, I would like to for specific ingredients. If you’re really in dishes one day before the visit if you can. share with our readers some useful tips for the long haul, prepare certain dishes Get someone to help you with prepar- on how to prepare your Ramadan kitchen: ahead of time and freeze them. This will ing, lifting, and washing the dishes if fea- 1. The 1,2,3 of your kitchen save time, and in turn this will maximize sible, and if you have kids, let them help Clean your kitchen and your fridge very time spent in worship. you as well. well. Get rid of all unwanted stuff to leave 7. Make it simple 12. Eat well space for the food stock of the month. Don’t overwhelm yourself with lists of Healthy food will give you the energy to Prepare different ingredients for meals food items you should prepare everyday on work, pray, and do all your duties. Avoid for the whole week, so you just do the final Iftar, just make sure meals are nutritious eating junk food and food with big amount steps day by day. For example, prepare and have all necessary elements. of fats as much as you can, this kind of in your fridge a good amount of onions, 8. Make use of leftovers diet will make you more sleepy and lazy garlic, and tomato sauce. Get meat and Don’t ever throw food in the rubbish, in addition to its health hazards. chicken washed and spiced. try to use any leftovers in other dishes or 13. Finally, take some rest Prepare some homemade drinks like give it to the poor. And when there are Enough sleeping hours are very impor- hibiscus, and leave them in the fridge. none, eat simple meals. tant for you to be able to complete the 2. Make a shopping list The Prophet (peace and blessings whole month with the same pace. Write down everything you need for be upon him) used to break his fast WWW.ONISLAM.NET SUNDAY 29 JUNE 2014 IX Health clinic: Questions and answers

glycemic index foods. These are the car- bohydrates that slowly release glucose in the blood like whole wheat, barley, brown rice, beans and legumes. Avoid simple sugars and refined carbo- hydrates like white flour, syrups... which cause rapid rise in BSL and pauses stress on your pancreas. Eat lots of fresh green vegetables, ber- ries and add cinnamon to your desserts, 1-2 teaspoons of cinnamon a day is proven to help balance BSL. Consume adequate amount of protein with each meal (20-30 percent) of your diet. Alternate between vegetable sources (like legumes, nuts, and BY AMIRA AYAD beans), meat poultry and fish. Make sure your diet contains lots of fibre as they are known to stabilize and balance your BSL. AVING awareness of Other foods that help stabilise BSL how to prepare our include berries, brewer’s yeast (great bodies physiologically source of B vitamins), dairy especially and our daily diets for cheese, egg yolk, fish, garlic, kelp, beans the month of fasting and vegetables (not root or starchy is highly essential for vegetables). Henhancement of functions of our organs Finally, always keep something sweet and their internal processes. handy and if at any time of the day you To tackle this important topic, Dr. feel any sign of hypoglycemia (low blood Amira Ayad, a pharmacist, nutrition sugar level) like dizziness, headache, specialist and natural health consult- fainting, nausea... don’t hesitate to break ant provides answers to questions in an your fast as your body is sending you a email-based live clinic session. warning signal. • I suffer from Type II Diabetes , • How can I avoid feeling thirsty in how can I prepare myself for Ramadan these summer days of fasting? intake is stored as fats. So any extra calo- It is actually essential to drink a lot of sweetened soft beverages like cola; too fasting? Ensure good hydration during Iftar ries you consume before Ramadan won’t water during suhoor, but as our golden much simple sugars and sweets; too salty The most important factor in type and suhoor. Drink at least 8 cups of water delay or avoid hunger. Islamic rule always applies: moderation foods and pickles, food containing syn- II Diabetes in controlling blood sugar during your non-fasting hours in addition • What are the diets I’d better avoid? and balance is the key. Please refer to thetic chemicals and flavour enhancers. level (BSL). I am not sure about the to any other fluids like juices and herbal The diets to avoid include junk food, question number 5 for more tips to help • Do I need to stop any habits which dosage and timing of your medication, teas. Avoid drinks that cause dehydra- refined sugars, simple carbohydrates, you avoid thirst and dehydration. might cause any problem for my body but, I guess like most of type II diabetes tion like coffee and tea and sweetened empty calories (food with only calories It is useful to also know here that your while fasting? patient, you take your medication once soft beverages like cola or at least mini- but no nutritional values) and synthetic body’s ability to tolerate thirst and hun- Shifting to a healthy lifestyle in gen- or twice a day. In this case, it would be mize your intake to a maximum of 1 or chemicals. These foods mess up with your ger greatly increases during Ramadan eral is advisable. Concerning your dietary no problem to gradually shift the time 2 cups. blood sugar level and hormones includ- fasting. As a result of your sincere inten- habits, avoid snacking and in between of the medication to be at the time of Avoid the intake of too much sweet ing the hormones that help you control tion to fast, your mind gives the order meals, shift to whole foods and avoid suhoor and Iftar. foods, simple carbohydrates and sugars. stress level, regulate mood and adjust to your body for affecting a total shift in refined carbohydrates and simple sug- In most countries the difference is Ensure good intake of fiber-rich food like appetite and metabolism. In addition, metabolic rate and physiology making ars, reduce your intake of coffee, tea or about 10 hours so this should be fine. If fresh vegetables, beans, legumes...And, in synthetic chemicals like flavour enhanc- you less susceptible to fatigue and more soft drinks. you take your medicine more than twice general avoid over exertion and too much ers and sweeteners over-stimulate your able to withstand the absence of water It is also advisable to synchronise our a day or you suffer from any other com- sun and heat exposure. taste buds causing you to feel hungry than you would on a regular day. sleeping and resting pattern with the plications please consult your physician • Would it be effective to consume more frequently and delay satiety. • Are there specific goods and foods day and night cycle, waking up for Fajr first before undergoing any changes. more meals before Ramadan? • Is it beneficial or useless to drink big that I shall avoid in order not to get prayer and avoiding too much TV time Second, you should concentrate your Not at all. Our body processes its food quantity of water in Suhur to help me thirsty? at night. carbohydrate intake on what we call low on a daily or even hourly basis, the extra cope with the hot daytime while fasting? Yes, diuretic drinks like tea and coffee; WWW.ONISLAM.NET X SUNDAY 29 JUNE 2014 For Women: Tips and advice BY RASHA DEWEDAR how you manage your time in very special time to you and that wrong time to exercise, this is Ramadan, but extends to how you you’d rather give more time to not true. You can have few min- USLIMS manage to decrease your tasks prayers and related activities and utes of stretching or any kind of all over the and duties during the holy month. you can postpone gatherings and work outs that makes your body world began Everyone has different priori- errands and do it afterwards. stronger and make you feel better. Ramadan ties, abilities, and circumstances, • Be smart when you invite; with unprec- nevertheless, you can tailor the inviting guests to Iftar no doubt FOR WORKING WOMEN: edented moti- following tips to your life style. has a great thawab, and spread Mvation and high hopes to do many Pray that Allah grants you happiness to both you and your Needless to say that working things and to get the maximum of Baraka in your time. guests, and it can be a great load women have a harder job that this holy month. However, inten- • Don’t go to one of the as well, unless you have a good need more care and control. The tions are not enough! Women, like extremes; don’t put very high plan for it. good news however, is that work- everyone else, have high expec- expectations that you are unlikely Cook simple meals that do not ing women are mostly used to tations for the blessed month, as to make, be always sure you are need much time or effort. Prepare time management, checklists, and well as more loads and duties. not a superwoman (no one actu- some or most of the dishes one day arranging tasks beforehand. Achieving what you want in ally is). You are not helpless as before if you can, so you don’t have • Working efficiently is an Ramadan is strongly related to well, you can achieve a lot if you all the work on the same day. Dish important gate to Paradise, so be time management and realistic put realistic plan that goes along parties are an excellent choice in always sure that you are doing a plans. with your abilities, responsibili- this case, where everyone gets a great job which will essentially Women have more duties in ties, and circumstances. dish and you all share cooking and reflect on your psychology in a Ramadan, especially if they are • Make it simple, don’t over- you also share thawab. positive way. working, however, they still have whelm yourself with lists of food • Make a checklist in which • Set your schedule carefully, several opportunities for getting items you should prepare every- you put basic duties as well as according to your working hours rewards, which makes it even day on Iftar, just make sure meals extra activities, and make one for so that you have adequate time more important for them to are nutritious and have all neces- each child, this will act as a good to sleep, work, and good time to arrange and coordinate diversity sary elements. reminder as well as an alert if you spend with your family. of activities only in one month. • Get your kitchen prepared; put too much or too less tasks. • Make use of the time of breaks Charity is a widely open door prepare different ingredients for Don’t say tomorrow, if you and transportation in reading the in which women can participate meals before Ramadan, so that have a task, do it immediately, Holy Quran and Dhikr. by different ways. Cooking food in Ramadan, you just do the final this will even give you a push to • Help your Muslim colleagues for needy people, collecting money steps. do more. make the most of the holy month from relatives and friends for • Keep your home organised; • Take some rest; enough sleep- by exchanging information, and charitable reasons, among other this way you can get things eas- ing hours are very important for encouraging each other. activities. ier and save time of searching for you to be able to complete the • Get your family involved; Women have also a very impor- items. whole month with the same pace. you can get the help of your tant and crucial role in helping • Set your priorities. Put your • Eat well. healthy food will family members in household their children understand what plan starting with basic tasks fol- give you the energy to work, pray, responsibilities. Ramadan is all about, and in lowed by less important to ‘you’. and do all your duties. Avoid eat- You should always know that organising activities and enter- Don’t schedule what you think ing junk food and food with big time management is not a tool taining activities relevant to the less prior, just focus on more amount of fats as much as you for more duties to accomplish. holy month. important things and get them can, this kind of diet will make It’s rather a system that helps Ramadan is considered an done efficiently. you more sleepy and lazy in addi- you having a clear vision of what excellent opportunity for kids to • Put a schedule to your tion to its health hazards. After you want to do, identify your live 30 days in a comprehensive appointments and visits; avoid managing your time a way or responsibilities, feel productive, experience that includes fasting, unnecessary outings, and put defi- another, help others to do the which will finally grant you con- praying, playing, and helping oth- nite dates and times if you can. same, especially family members. trol over your life with a sense of ers either physically or financially. Make it clear to your family • Exercise. Many people empowerment. Time management is not only and friends that Ramadan is a think Ramadan is absolutely the WWW.ONISLAM.NET Cooking at home: Training children to fast

AMADAN is the best month to train your child and teach him Al Harees how to overcome the desires of his body Rand develop his ability to shoulder Total Time: 4 hrs 40 mins beginning to fluff up & soften — skim really be any as almost all of it will responsibility. Prep Time: 40 mins off any foam or skummy bits on the have ‘melted’ into the wheat. It has been proven that the Cook Time: 4 hrs surface! 9. Now begin whipping the wheat month of Ramadan is the best Servings 6-8 3. Soak the lamb/chicken in plenty & meat until it forms a homogenous, time to train children to per- of lightly salted water whilst the wheat slightly elastic, paste-like consistency form religious obligations at an INGREDIENTS: is cooking. - add a little salted boiling water to early age. Modern studies and 1 kg lamb or 1 kg chicken, 4. When the wheat is fluffy, rinse & thin it down if required. Use a large field research have proved that on the bone drain the meat. wooden spoon, or pound it with a the psychological and physical 1 kg whole wheat (called ‘habb 5. In a large, heavy bottomed pot wooden rolling pin to get the desired growth of those children who fast harees’ ) or 1 kg pearled durham (or special harees pot), place the consistency. You could also pulse it in during the month of Ramadan is wheat (called ‘habb harees’ ) wheat & the meat with a little salt & a food processor or use an immersion much better than those who do 150 gram ghee pepper and enough water to come blender but if you are lucky enough, not and that they are therefore (or traditional samen) about 5cm above the wheat & meat. you might have a medhrab which is more responsible. The age of 10 is Ssalt & freshly ground black Cover with a tight fitting lid — you can specially for harees. the best time to start training the pepper, to taste place a damp cloth or aluminium foil 10. Check the seasoning & re-sea- child to fast, because at this age water, as needed over the pot & then place the lid over son if desired. Transfer to a warmed fasting will not cause any health that of the lid is not a tight fit. serving pot, cover & keep warm. problems for the child. Extras 6. Bring to a boil, reduce heat & 11. Place the ghee in a pan & sea- How to monitor your child? Option 1 cook on a very low heat for 3 1/2 son to taste with salt & pepper (& any First: The mother should moni- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon hours, stirring occasionally & skim- of the spices listed below). Gently tor her child during the fast. If she 2 teaspoons roasted ground cumin off froth or fat on the surface. warm the ghee & mix well. feels that he is visibly tired or sick Option 2 7. Once the wheat is very soft & 12. Pour the seasoned ghee over due to the fast, she must make Fourth: We have to break our should not contain any pickles 3-4 whole bruised cardamom pods has lost it’s shape & most of the water the harees & serve immediately. him break his fast immediately. fast as early as possible by hav- or spicy foods because they cause 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon has been absorbed, remove from heat 13. N.B : You can serve the harees We must also pay attention to the ing some ripe or dried dates, thirst. It is also recommended at sugar & allow to cool a little, then remove with 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon & 2 fact that there are some diseases fruit juice or small amounts of that time to have small amounts any bones & grissle. (If all the water tsp roasted ground cumin seeds, or that prevent a child from fast- sweetened water slowly. The of liquids repeatedly, particularly METHOD has been absobed add about 1/2 cup 3-4 whole bruised cardamom pods ing particularly kidney diseases, child should not drink iced water fruit juice or water, to make up for 1. Soak wheat overnight in plenty — 1 cup of boiling water — if there added to the ghee (remove the because a person suffering from immediately at the time of Iftar the deprivation of water during of water. is too much water but the wheat is podes before serving!). You can also such diseases needs water all the (breaking fast) because this dis- the whole day. If it is necessary 2. In a large pot, place pre-soaked cooked, ladle out the excess water.) serve harees with plenty of sugar & time. This also applies to those turbs the digestive system and to have some sweets (kunaafah, & drained wheat, add 1 & 1/2 litre 8. Shred the lamb or chicken if any cinnamon. who suffer from diabetes, tuber- hinders digestion. It is preferred kadayf, and so on), this should of water & boil until the wheat is larger pieces remain - there shouldn’t culosis, anemia, gastric ulcers and to have warm liquids such as soup be after the Iftaar and not in similar diseases as diagnosed by a first because such foods stimulate the Suhoor meal so as not to feel specialist doctor. the stomach. thirsty the next day. Second: Training the child to Fifth: The Iftar meal should be Eighth: The physical activity of fast should be gradual, because balanced and provide the child the child should be reduced dur- increasing the hours of fasting with the necessary calories. It ing the fast, but mental activities day after day and year after year is recommended that the Iftar are allowed because they are not helps to create balance in the contains proteins (pulses, meat exhausting. Hence, children can body regarding the physiological or chicken) that help in building study before Iftar. changes that happen due to the new tissue and making up for Ninth: Finally, the mother fast. Consequently, the child will those that have been destroyed. should be keen on waking up her be able to fast without any nega- It should also contain vegetables, child to have the Suhoor meal and tive health effects or exhaustion. fruits, and starches (bread, rice getting him accustomed to see- This will also make him taste the and pasta) in addition to very few ing his family members practic- sweetness of fasting. fats. ing this great religious rite until Third: The mother should not Sixth: The Suhoor meal should he himself becomes acquainted fear for her child due to the fast be delayed as much as possible. with the religious practices of this under the pretext that he is still This meal should be rich and sati- blessed month. young, she would be surprised ating and it should also contain We should also make use of when she sees his enthusiasm proteins, sugars and fats that can the opportunity of the month of to imitate his parents and older be found in eggs, beans, yoghurt, Ramadan to train the child in brothers and sisters who fast. vegetables and fruits. It is also observing the prayers on time in This will also accustom the child recommended to have dairy prod- addition to the fast. We should to the beloved traditions of this ucts as they contain a high per- also teach him how to recite the great month such as the family centage of the proteins, fats and Holy Quran and recognise the gathering around the table at liquids that secure the needs of sublime meanings of the fast to the Suhoor and Iftar meals, not the child. These products are also implant the values of mercy and to mention the popular traditions considered integrated foods and kindness to the poor and the that distinguish every Muslim they cover a long period of fasting. needy in his soul. country. Seventh: The Suhoor meal WWW.ISLAMWEB.NET