The Role of Fasting in Promoting Mental and Physical Health: A Seminar at the College of Islamic Sciences

The College of Islamic Sciences at the University of Samarra held a seminar in collaboration with the Salah al-Din Health Directorate titled “The Role of Ramadan in Enhancing Mental and Physical Health.” The event featured a group of faculty members from the college alongside Dr. Hikam Adnan Mahdi, a physician at Samarra General Hospital.

The seminar aimed to raise health awareness during the month of Ramadan by highlighting the physical and mental benefits of fasting. Dr. Adnan provided practical advice on maintaining mental and physical well-being during the holy month, emphasizing the importance of a balanced diet, sufficient rest, and regular sleep patterns.

Faculty members from the College of Islamic Sciences emphasized the need to maintain harmony between the body and the soul, and the importance of nurturing both. They also discussed the spiritual dimensions of fasting and its role in strengthening spiritual connection.

The seminar also addressed the significance of fostering spirituality and psychological calm, particularly during Ramadan, which offers a unique opportunity to deepen one’s relationship with God. This spiritual connection, they noted, enhances inner peace and emotional balance, while also helping to alleviate stress and anxiety brought on by fasting and increased worship.

The speakers recommended strengthening one’s sense of community and belonging, which can promote values of peace and coexistence. This can be achieved through communal iftar meals and prayers at the mosque, which also serve to reinforce social bonds. Additionally, they stressed the importance of healthy nutrition, adequate hydration during non-fasting hours, and proper sleep and rest throughout the month.