A month of reflection, fasting and wellbeing

Senior Consultant Paediatrician and Head of Paediatrics at Nepean Hospital, and a practising Muslim, Clinical Associate Professor Dr Habib Bhurawala says Ramadan is a significant time of reflection and spiritual renewal.

“Ramadan sharpens awareness and renews intention in every action, with greater empathy and kindness,” says Habib.

“I observe Ramadan through fasting from dawn to sunset, prayer, and spending more time with family, particularly around shared meals in the evening. As both a clinician and a parent, I see Ramadan as a time to model balance, maintaining faith practices while also prioritising health, rest and wellbeing.”

Each adult is responsible for deciding whether to fast, but individuals are religiously exempt from fasting in certain situations. Pregnant, breastfeeding, or menstruating women, people who are experiencing acute or chronic illness, travellers, the elderly, and those managing significant medical conditions are exempt.

Despite this, some patients may still choose to fast, and clinicians can provide guidance to support safe practice, such as adjusting medication schedules, monitoring hydration, and advising patients to pause fasting if concerning symptoms arise.

Islam places the preservation of life and health above fasting, and patients are encouraged to prioritise medical treatment and break the fast if clinically necessary.

“Simple, respectful questions, such as whether a patient is fasting and how they are managing, support person-centred care and allow appropriate clinical planning without making assumptions,” says Habib.

Support for Muslim staff and patients during Ramadan often comes down to awareness and flexibility.

“Understanding that fasting may affect energy levels, particularly later in the afternoon, and being considerate with non-urgent scheduling can be helpful. Small gestures, such as awareness around food-centred activities or offering flexibility where possible, can make a meaningful difference,” says Habib.

Did you know?
A fasting adult may take the following medications or treatments without breaking their fast:

• Injections (intramuscular, intravenous, subcutaneous, intradermal, intraosseous, intracardiac), including COVID-19 vaccines
• Blood tests (thumb prick or intravenous)
• Medications absorbed through the skin (e.g., transdermal patches)
• Eye or ear drops (unless the eardrum is perforated)
• Concentrated oxygen, vaginal pessaries, epidural analgesia, haemodialysis
• Gargling (as long as no liquid is swallowed)

The following will break the fast:

• Oral or nasal medications, including inhalers or nebulisers
• Rectal suppositories
• Inhalers or nebulisers
• Smoking

“Ramadan is a wonderful opportunity to step back, reflect, and connect with family, friends, and colleagues,” says Habib.

Even simple gestures, such as checking in with someone who is fasting or being mindful of mealtimes and energy levels, can make a meaningful difference.

Habib invites everyone, from colleagues to patients, to learn more about Ramadan and the traditions that make this month special. Showing awareness and respect creates a welcoming environment where everyone can share in the experience.