How to Get Rid of Sleepiness While Fasting

Besides hunger and thirst during fasting , you'll likely experience excessive sleepiness. Typically, after 12 noon, your body will feel lethargic, leading to drowsiness.

This is normal due to reduced and altered sleep patterns. Besides sleeping, try these simple tips to ward off daytime sleepiness while fasting. Curious?

1. Advance your bedtime.

Adults need about 8 to 9 hours of sleep a day. However, things are different during Ramadan, when you have to wake up very early for sahur (pre-dawn meal), stay awake until dawn prayers, and even stay awake until the start of your morning activities. This can cut into your sleep time. But don't worry, one trick you can use is to move your bedtime forward. If you usually go to bed at 11:00 PM, it's best to go to bed at 9:00 PM during Ramadan. Do this regularly. This way, your sleep won't be disturbed!

2. Sleeping after sahur and dawn prayer

After sahur and morning prayers, it's recommended to go back to sleep. However, it's recommended to only sleep for two hours. If you sleep longer, your body will react in the opposite way. It will actually feel weak, leading to excessive sleepiness. Only then can you shower and resume your normal activities.

3. Take advantage of your lunch break

The midday break is the perfect time to recharge your batteries. If you're feeling uncontrollably sleepy, try taking a 15-20 minute nap, known as a super nap. This short nap can leave you feeling refreshed.

4. Regulate breathing

One way to ward off drowsiness is to increase oxygen levels in the brain. Try to control your breathing while fasting. Increasing oxygen levels in the brain can help increase energy and stimulate brain activity. Try sitting or standing upright with one hand resting on your stomach. Then, inhale deeply through your nose and exhale slowly through your nose.

5. Take a walk

Drowsiness can also be triggered by inactivity. During your break, you can take advantage of it by going for a walk. There's nothing wrong with simply taking a walk around the office or campus. This method is often effective in warding off fasting-related drowsiness.