More than 1 billion Muslims fast during Ramadan every year. As a non-Muslim traveler, I have always been curious about what it must be like to abstain from eating food and drinking water from sunrise to sunset for 30 days.

I've never fasted before in my life so I figured being in quarantine would be the best time to try it out! I also wanted to take to opportunity to learn more about the Islamic religion & culture and make this video in hopes of sharing some positive information about Ramadan to my mostly non-Muslim audience. After fasting just for one day during Ramadan 2020, I have nothing but respect for the Muslims who have fasted for 30 days every single year since they were young.

I STRUGGLED during this fast! It was difficult to focus on work and being around the food in our house was definitely a test of my self control. The most noticeable physical reaction I had was my caffeine withdrawal that caused me to have a terrible headache all day.

I was so happy to be breaking my fast with my roommate Ammar who is from Egypt and has been fasting throughout Ramadan. We sat together to chat about his experiences during Ramadan which was amazing to get the perspective of a Muslim who has been fasting since he was 11 years old.

Once Ammar returned home with our dates and dinner, we said a prayer and reflected on my Ramadan experience. From just this short experience, I’ve learned that Ramadan is about so much more than fasting
It’s about becoming aware of your negative habits and practicing self control. It’s a time dedicated towards prayer, reflection and meditation. It teaches you to be grateful for all the blessings in your life and to be more understanding towards people less fortunate than you.
It’s also about community. It’s taking the time away from your normal routine to disconnect and come together to share meals and appreciate each other’s presence in our lives.

I’m feeling very grateful for the opportunity to learn more about Islamic culture and to those of you who are currently fasting, Ramadan Mubarak!

Arabic Subtitles in CC

Check out more of my adventures on Instagram:   / lexielimitless  

My Roommate Ammar from Yes Theory:   / ammar