During Ramadan, Muslims worldwide engage in fasting, prayer, reflection, and spiritual growth to commemorate the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad. This sacred month, the ninth in the Islamic lunar calendar, holds immense significance for believers. Beyond abstaining from food, drink, and physical needs from dawn until sunset, Ramadan fosters a deeper connection with one's faith, community, and inner self.
To enhance the Ramadan experience, many Muslims turn to resources like the Ramadan planner. Authored by Dina Aziz, this journal-style planner provides practical guidance for organising time, setting spiritual goals, and maximising the benefits of Ramadan. With its viral popularity, the Ramadan planner has become an indispensable tool for Muslims of all ages, helping them navigate the challenges and opportunities of this sacred month. In an interview with Asian Voice, Dina talks about inspiration of making planner, mental health and spiritual growth, and her connection with faith.
Inspiration behind the Ramadan Planner
Dina said, “The inspiration for the planner came during my final year of university when a close friend, who was new to the country and practising Ramadan for the second time, was struggling with the religious observance. Wanting to help, I initially created a couple of Dua sheets for her. As time went on, the idea evolved into a booklet, which I shared with her via WhatsApp. She loved it and shared it with her friends and family. Eventually, the planner circulated back to me through various channels, and I was surprised to find people recommending it without knowing I had created it. Encouraged by friends and family, I decided to share it on social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram, where it gained significant attention, reaching millions of views and breaking download records. It was a fast-tracked journey from a simple idea to widespread recognition.”
Speaking about another biggest inspiration about the planner, Dina said, “During my childhood, I came across a book that, while not focused on Ramadan, offered a thorough introduction to Islam, including key practices like prayer. Its ability to simplify complex concepts left a lasting impression on me. Drawing on this experience, I aimed to create a user-friendly and inclusive planner by adopting a straightforward approach.”
Navigating Ramadan with a unique approach
Talking about the Ramadan planner, Dina said, “The planner's unique structure fosters a reflective journey, with prompts every three days covering mental health, spiritual growth, and personal development. It goes beyond mere activity tracking, prompting users to consider the why behind their actions and their impact. For example, instead of a typical Quran tracker, it offers three phases with questions, checklists, and quizzes to engage deeply with readings. Daily reflections focus on growth areas, while tailored quotes and reminders offer inspiration. Anecdotal stories every three days provide practical insights, with checkpoints every ten days for progress assessment and goal-setting. Inclusivity is prioritised, with dedicated support for those unable to fast. The initial pages introduce essential Islamic practices in a visually engaging manner, catering to newcomers and children. The planner also addresses emotional well-being, influenced by a mood tracker app, integrating features for self-reflection and emotional check-ins.
“Another important aspect addressed in the planner is the support provided for individuals who are unable to fast. This section caters to those exempted from fasting due to reasons such as old age, sickness, health conditions, or women who are menstruating or pregnant. Several pages are dedicated to this topic, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all individuals participating in the month, regardless of their circumstances,”she added.
Fostering spiritual growth
Speaking about the strong connection with faith, Dina said, “My parents played a significant role in shaping my connection to faith, as they enrolled me in Islamic school and provided guidance through teachers and mentors. However, the aspect that stood out most to me was the sense of community, particularly in the area where I grew up in East London. Surrounded by people of my race and faith, I felt inspired to deepen my religious practice and identity, including my decision to wear the hijab, which was entirely my own choice. The influence of friends, family, and the broader community during my formative years up to age 18 has left a lasting impact on my character and beliefs.”
Talking about the planner, she said, “Writing the planner significantly deepened my connection with religion and enhanced my understanding of various aspects, particularly different types of prayers. This journey strengthened my bond with God and set me on a transformative path in life. I was compelled to include life lessons and insights applicable beyond the confines of Ramadan, reflecting experiences and wisdom relevant to a broader journey. These elements resonated deeply with me during the writing process, underscoring their significance and relevance in shaping the planner's content.”
