Ramadan is a time of spiritual renewal, discipline, and increased devotion to Allah (SWT). During this blessed month, we develop good habits such as regular prayer, fasting, charity, reading the Quran, and making dua. However, many struggle to maintain these habits after Ramadan ends.
Allah (SWT) says in the Quran:
“And worship your Lord until there comes to you the certainty (death).” (Quran 15:99)
This verse reminds us that worship is not limited to Ramadan but should be a lifelong commitment. In this article, we will discuss practical ways to sustain and build upon the good habits cultivated during Ramadan.
In Case You Missed It:
Ramadan Preparation Guide: How to Maximize Your Worship (Part 1)
Ramadan Preparation Guide: Strengthening Your Relationship with the Quran (Part 2)
Ramadan Preparation Guide: Maximizing Your Worship Through Salah and Dhikr (Part 3)
Ramadan Preparation Guide: Fasting with Sincerity and Gratitude (Part 4)
Ramadan Prep: Charity and Helping Others (Part 5)
Ramadan Prep: The Power of Dua and Seeking Forgiveness (Part 6)
Ramadan Prep: Strengthening Family Bonds During Ramadan (Part 7)
Continue Fasting Beyond Ramadan
Fasting outside of Ramadan carries immense rewards and helps maintain the self-discipline developed during the month. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) encouraged fasting on specific days:
“Whoever fasts Ramadan and follows it with six days of Shawwal, it will be as if he fasted for a lifetime.” (Muslim)
How to Maintain Fasting:
- Fast the six days of Shawwal to earn immense rewards.
- Observe Monday and Thursday fasts, as was the Sunnah of the Prophet (SAW).
- Fast on the White Days (13th, 14th, and 15th of each Islamic month).
- Fast on Arafah (9th of Dhul-Hijjah) and Ashura (10th of Muharram) for extra blessings.
- Make intentional fasting a part of your lifestyle, even if occasionally.
2. Preserve the Habit of Regular Salah
Many of us strive to perform our five daily prayers on time during Ramadan, often adding extra prayers such as Taraweeh and Tahajjud. However, it’s essential to continue prioritizing Salah after Ramadan.
The Prophet (SAW) said:
“The first thing for which a person will be brought to account on the Day of Resurrection will be his prayer.” (Tirmidhi)
Tips for Maintaining Regular Salah:
- Set reminders for prayer times.
- Perform prayers at the earliest time to avoid missing them.
- Continue offering Tahajjud, even if occasionally.
- Establish a dedicated prayer space at home to maintain focus.
- Pray at the mosque as often as possible to keep the communal spirit alive.
- Utilize Islamic apps to keep track of prayer times and motivational reminders.
3. Keep the Quran Close to Your Heart
Ramadan is known as the Month of the Quran, but we must ensure that our relationship with the Quran extends beyond Ramadan.
Allah (SWT) says:
“Indeed, this Quran guides to that which is most suitable…” (Quran 17:9)
How to Keep Engaged with the Quran:
- Recite at least one page daily, even if it’s a short amount.
- Reflect on the meanings of the Quran through Tafsir studies.
- Memorize short surahs and strengthen what you already know.
- Listen to Quran recitations while commuting or before sleeping.
- Join a Quran study circle for motivation.
- Actively apply the teachings of the Quran in daily life.
4. Maintain the Spirit of Charity
Charity (Sadaqah) is highly encouraged in Islam, and many give generously during Ramadan. However, the act of giving should not stop after Eid.
The Prophet (SAW) said:
“The best deeds are those done regularly, even if they are small.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
Ways to Continue Giving Charity:
- Set aside a small amount for donation weekly or monthly.
- Support an orphan or a family in need regularly.
- Volunteer at local community centers or mosques.
- Engage in non-monetary acts of charity, like helping others.
- Continue the habit of feeding the poor, just as we did in Ramadan.
- Incorporate Sadaqah Jariyah (ongoing charity), such as contributing to well-building, mosque construction, or funding Islamic education.
5. Strengthen Dua and Seeking Forgiveness
Dua and Istighfar (seeking forgiveness) are among the greatest acts of worship. Many make heartfelt supplications during Ramadan, but we must ensure this remains part of our daily routine.
Allah (SWT) says:
“And your Lord says, ‘Call upon Me; I will respond to you.'” (Quran 40:60)
How to Keep Dua and Istighfar Alive:
- Start and end the day with morning and evening supplications.
- Make dua in sujood (prostration) for greater impact.
- Dedicate time for personal supplications after each Salah.
- Seek forgiveness daily, as the Prophet (SAW) did over 70 times a day.
- Keep a dua journal to track your prayers and reflect on answered duas.
- Make dua for others, as the angels say “Ameen” to your supplications.
6. Maintain Good Character and Patience
Ramadan teaches us patience, kindness, and self-restraint. Carrying these virtues beyond Ramadan strengthens our faith and relationships with others.
The Prophet (SAW) said:
“The most beloved of Allah’s servants are those with the best manners.” (Bukhari)
Ways to Maintain Good Manners:
- Control anger and respond with patience.
- Speak kindly and avoid gossip and backbiting.
- Show gratitude for Allah’s blessings.
- Forgive others to purify your heart.
- Continue acts of kindness to family, neighbors, and strangers.
- Be conscious of your words and actions, ensuring they align with Islamic teachings.
7. Establish a Routine for Spiritual Growth
Maintaining the spiritual momentum after Ramadan requires effort and consistency. A structured plan helps in sustaining good habits.
How to Create a Post-Ramadan Routine:
- Set realistic spiritual goals and track progress.
- Schedule weekly Islamic study sessions with family or friends.
- Plan small acts of worship daily (e.g., reciting Quran, giving charity, praying Sunnah prayers).
- Surround yourself with righteous companions who inspire you.
- Renew intentions daily, reminding yourself that every good deed is for Allah.
- Engage in self-reflection and seek ways to grow spiritually.
Conclusion
Ramadan is a training ground that teaches us discipline, devotion, and self-improvement. As it ends, our journey of faith must continue. By maintaining our habits of fasting, Salah, Quran recitation, charity, dua, and good character, we ensure that Ramadan’s blessings remain with us throughout the year.
May Allah (SWT) grant us the strength to remain steadfast and accept all our efforts. Ameen!
Stay tuned for more Islamic insights and guidance!