Student Guide to Ramadan 2023
Ramadan 2023
Written by Habeeba Shaikh, SU Communications Assistant
Ramadan is an important time of year for Muslims, as it marks the 9th month in the Islamic lunar calendar – the month when the Qur’an was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Muslims commemorate this holy month through self-reflection, prayer, charity, and of course, fasting.
Contrary to a common misconception, Muslims don’t starve for 30 straight days. It’s only between sunrise and sunset, that those who are fasting abstain from eating and drinking (yes, not even water!), as well as smoking and intimacy. The purpose of fasting is to practice discipline and spiritual conditioning – temporarily depriving the body of its nourishment allows a greater focus on nourishing the soul. While fasting, Muslims are also encouraged to take up good habits and refrain from bad habits such as gossiping or swearing.
However, it’s important to understand that Muslims aren’t all the same, so Ramadan can look different for each person. Some may be exempt from fasting, such as if they are menstruating, have an illness, are pregnant or nursing, or travelling. Some may choose to practice their faith more outwardly during the month, while others may not. In a similar sense, each person may experience the difficulties of Ramadan in different ways, for example: headaches from dehydration or caffeine withdrawal, difficulty concentrating, disrupted sleep routine, or an internal struggle in discipline and spirituality.
For Birkbeck students, this year Ramadan falls outside of term time, which can be helpful in some aspects and more challenging in others. If you are still on campus or in London, we’ve put together a handy guide for observing Ramadan as a Birkbeck student.
*Birkbeck SU is not affiliated with any of the external events or organisations below, please contact the individual organisations if you have any questions*
Since most of you at Birkbeck will be studying, revising, or writing assignments during the Easter break, it’s important to balance your activities, so you can reap the benefits of the Holy Month while also studying effectively.
1. Drink plenty of fluids and eat a balanced, nutritious food.
Don’t skip suhoor! Try to eat foods that are filling and high in fibre – such as oats, couscous, rice, beans. And try to stay away from eating too much fried food, as this will help you to avoid feeling sluggish.
2. Find a time to study that works for you.
Some students might find it helpful to study between iftar and suhoor, as they will be able to eat and drink during this time. Whereas others might prefer to study in short bursts throughout the day. Regardless, find a time when you are able to concentrate well.
3. Take regular breaks.
Make sure you’re taking regular breaks, especially screen-free breaks! A short mid-afternoon nap can also help to fight the hunger and tiredness. Consider structuring your day around the daily prayers, and planning periods of time where you’re not studying.
Try to get outside for some fresh air every day, such as a light walk. This can help to get your body moving, while also serving as a screen-free break.
4. Make wudhu to feel refreshed.
If you’re feeling lethargic and know you can’t (or shouldn’t) nap or take a walk, making wudu (ablution) can help to make you feel more alert.
5. Keep in contact with your loved ones.
Especially if you’re living away from home, studying during Ramadan can sometimes feel extra lonely. Be sure to call friends and family regularly, and engage in community events in your local area or mosque. (We have some options below if you’re in or around campus!)
6. Reach out if you're struggling!
For cultural and faith-sensitive support, head to Student Space’s helpline for Muslim students. Open 4-10pm 7 days a week.
The university has a specialist Wellbeing Service that offers a range of support to students including counselling, specialist mental health and disability support, workshops and self-help material. Organisations such as NHS, Mind, and Student Minds also have helpful support pages.
If you are finding it difficult to balance it all during Ramadan, and you are worried about your academic performance, speak to a member of staff in your department or the wellbeing team.
On Campus:
Multi Faith Room - MAL B06
If you’re on campus, you can access the Multi Faith Room with your ID card. Perfect for when you’re studying at the library and need to pray.
SOAS Iftar Evenings
Elsewhere on the Bloomsbury Campus, SOAS Islamic Society are hosting Iftar Evenings, on the 30th March and 3rd April, open to everyone.
Find details on their Instagram page here.
Nearby Mosques:
Muslim World League
46 Goodge Street London, W1T 4LU
Located by Goodge Street Underground Station, a ten-minute walk from campus.
This mosque is open for daily prayers, as well as Jummah (Friday prayers), and have women’s prayer facilities. During Ramadan, they also provide a free iftar meal and dates to break your fast with, and host Taraweeh prayers each evening.
Kings Cross Mosque and Islamic Cultural Centre
Basement, Sandfield, Cromer St, London WC1H 8DU
A fifteen-minute walk from campus, near Kings Cross Station.
Daily prayer facilities, in addition to Jummah and Taraweeh. Also has women’s prayer facilities.
https://www.kingscrossmosque.org/
Shahjalal Jame Masjid (Euston Mosque)
204A North Gower St, Starcross St, London NW1 2LY
Near Euston Station, a fifteen-minute walk from campus.
Daily prayer facilities, in addition to Jummah and Taraweeh.
Chalton Street Mosque
A fifteen-minute walk from campus, located between Kings Cross and Euston Station.
Daily prayer facilities, in addition to Jummah and Taraweeh. Also has women’s prayer facilities.
Community Iftars and Masjids:
East London Mosque
82-92 Whitechapel Rd, London E1 1JQ
Although it is a 25-minute journey via Elizabeth Line, this mosque provides free iftar and is one of the biggest mosques in London. Daily prayer facilities, in addition to Jummah and Taraweeh, along with spacious women’s prayer facilities.
https://www.eastlondonmosque.org.uk/
London Central Mosque
Similarly, this mosque is 25 minutes away from campus, but it is a beautiful mosque that serves iftar and provides a sense of community. Daily prayer facilities, in addition to Jummah and Taraweeh, along with spacious women’s prayer facilities.
Ramadan Tent Project - Open Iftar
Various locations across the UK
The Ramadan Tent Project host community iftars to Muslims and non-Muslims alike, promoting community and good faith. 2023 marks the ten-year anniversary of the project, and it is a good opportunity to capture the spirit of Ramadan. Be warned, tickets sell out very quickly – so make sure you’re prepared when they release the tickets via email newsletter every Friday.
https://www.ramadantentproject.com/
