Ramadan: the Muslim’s season to be jolly. Or the season to be completely out of control, because they can’t have their morning fix of whatever they’re on. Whether it’s cigarettes, soda, coffee, sugar, or whatever that makes you go through the day, usually we wait until the first day of Ramadan until we admit that we have an addiction.
Why don’t you work on your addictions a few days in advance so by the time you’re fasting, you’ll be good without your fixes? Here are some quitting methods for you to try before the holy month. Whatever method you pick, make sure you are psychologically ready, don’t let the withdrawal symptoms take over you, and please make sure you don’t let your anger turn you into a psycho version of the Hulk!
Tip 1: The Cold Turkey Method
Cold Turkey is when you suddenly stop consuming whatever you’re addicted to. Some might think that this is what happens in Ramadan anyway, but remember that after Iftar you still go back to smoking, drinking coffee, or having your favorite chocolate, so it’s not actually quitting unless you quit.
Pros: It’s the fastest way to detox everything from your body.
Cons: You will most likely have withdrawal symptoms and give up easily. Going back to the addiction is very common, as is loss of energy and productivity.
When to try this method: If you waited until the last minute, then this method is for you. However, don’t consume the thing you’re addicted to after Iftar. Quit for the whole month.
Tip 2: The Weaning Method
This is when you quit gradually. Let’s assume you’re addicted to coffee. Instead of drinking 5 cups per day, cut it to 4, then 3, and keep cutting until your body gets used to functioning without it.
Pros: When Ramadan comes around, there will be less withdrawal symptoms, your body won’t crash, you will have less headaches and physical pain, and you’ll be used to functioning without the habit.
Cons: The detoxing takes more time and planning, you cannot wait until the last minute to start this method.
When to try this method: If you have at least 2 weeks before Ramadan, you can use the detoxing method.
Tip 3: The Meditating Method
You can replace your addiction with meditation. It’s a common misconception that meditation is only yoga. Yoga is a meditation technique, but there are other methods are well. The best way to find the right method for you is to research many technique, and pick the best fit.
Pros: Meditation will help you with not only your addictions, but your over all mental health. If you like it, it can become a life style even after Ramadan.
Cons: It’s not for everyone, so you might have a hard time being dedicated to it.
Tip 4: The Exercise Method
This is quite similar to the meditating method. If you try to work out daily when you wake up, your body will get healthier, you’ll have more energy, and the withdrawal symptoms won’t be as bad.
Pros: You’ll be energetic, and will replace your addiction with something healthier.
Cons: If you don’t prepare your body for it, you might face dehydration.
