Mariam Khaled
It’s Ramadan time and Muslims all over the world have started to observe the holy month. As a student, it might be challenging to cope with the surrounding changes that are happening. In addition, students (especially lifelong learners as medical students) often feel frustrated as they think they’ll never have time for enough prayers (Ibadahaa).
However, here are some tips that will help you manage your time:
Know yourself
We’re not all identical, some of us are night owls who can be impressively productive during late night hours. On the contrary, others are just the opposite. They are early birds who prefer getting up early. They have high peak performance especially at the beginning of the day. One must know what suits him/her better.
Get enough sleep
For college students 7-9 hours are needed. These daily requirements reach their lowest at adulthood and their maximum at extremes of age. Quality sleep does not necessarily mean an adequate amount of hours, there are other factors which can significantly affect’s one sleep.
To sleep better:
1- Avoid drinking caffeine directly before going to bed.
2- Don’t go to bed hungry or stuffed.
3- Avoid using screens at least one hour before your sleep time.
4- Stick to your sleeping schedule
5- Incorporate physical activity in your daily routine.
Plan your day ahead
“If you don’t know where you’re going you might end up somewhere else”.
- Yogi Berra
This is doubtlessly true. Having a pre-prepared list will aid you in being more goal-oriented and don’t forget the satisfaction that comes when you cross off things from your list.
Eat well
For Suhur, focus on brain-friendly foods which will help you keep your attention during fasting. On the other hand, during Iftar it is better to abstain greasy fried foods and desserts with high sugar content as they’ll always leave you lethargic.
Drink well
It’s exaggeratedly essential to replenish the fluid lost during day in the period between Iftar and Suhur. However, don’t go for artificial juices that are rich in sugars and preservatives.
Change revise routines
It is easier to use mind maps and flashcards during day while fasting. This is much easier than going through solid concepts.
Revise in groups
Being among people who share the same concerns will make things easier. It might not be the perfect way for revising all the time but trust me it works. Even through, we advise you to stay safe and stay home because of the ongoing pandemic, you can plan to study together by the internet and it’s still work.
There is no single right thing
Don’t bother yourself with what others do, whether you study during night or day, never feel pressurized if your friends do the opposite. Just stick to what suits you best.
Don’t overdo it
It is perfectly normal and extremely acceptable to feel fatigued. Don’t be hard on yourself. You can cope with this by taking frequent small breaks. This little trick will definitely boost your productivity.
Spend time in Ibadaah (prayers)
This is the main purpose of this month and with proper time management, you’ll be capable to enjoy the spirituality of this month. Trust me, you can!
Finally, Ramadan is a very precious month that we are at the utmost need to get the best out of it, don’t leave yourself a victim of randomness.
There’s always enough time if you properly plan it!
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