The fasting month has arrived for Muslims who are observing the fast. Beyond abstaining from food and drink, fasting holds several meanings and benefits for individuals. Essentially, when a person fasts, they have the opportunity not only to improve their bodily systems but also to enhance their spiritual well-being.

Ramadan teaches individuals to be humble and grateful for what they have. It is about resisting material temptations and desires encountered in daily life. Through the self-control attained while fasting, individuals have the chance to draw closer to Allah (SWT) to improve their character and morality to become better human beings.

Moreover, suppressing negative emotions such as anger and suspicion, which can disrupt one’s reasoning, is one of the benefits of fasting. Fasting educates a person to increase patience and think positively when facing various challenges.

With increased patience and positive thinking, not only can a person improve their mindset, but they will also be more focused on channeling their energy and concentrating on productive activities.

Fasting during Ramadan is both an obligation and a means for individuals to prepare themselves to become devout to Allah (SWT). Allah promises multiple rewards during Ramadan, as explained in Surah Al-Baqarah verse 183:

"O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous."

Besides enhancing spiritual well-being, research published by the Ministry of Health (KEMENKES RI) indicates that during fasting, the body undergoes a cycle called autophagy. Fundamentally, this cycle is a time when the human body reduces and renews cells to maintain health. Additionally, fasting serves as a detoxification method or the removal of toxins and excess substances such as sugar, which accumulate in the body due to unhealthy food consumption like junk food, fast food, and preserved foods like instant noodles.

The fasting period, where one refrains from eating and drinking, allows the body to improve metabolism and eliminate excess substances.

Fasting is not merely an activity to fulfill the obligation of abstaining from hunger and thirst; it also improves the body, increases empathy for others, and stabilizes emotions. With self-appreciation gained during fasting, individuals can achieve well-being in their lives