Hajj is a religious pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Islam dictates that every adult Muslim is obligated to make Hajj at least once in a lifetime. The timing of Hajj is based on the lunar Islamic calendar and it will hold in 2019, August 9–14.
The Hajj is one of the world’s largest mass gatherings each year and is associated with unique health risks.
Approximately 2 million Muslims from over 183 countries make Hajj each year and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) continues its efforts to allow for an even greater number of pilgrims.
As the Hajj approaches one of the 5 pillars of Islam and one of the holiest periods in the Islamic calendar, the significance of Hajj is associated with religious as well as social significance.
The obligation for performing this pilgrimage is only fulfilled if it is done on the eight to the 12th day of the last month of the Islamic calendar. It occurs during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah. Every able bodied Muslim is obliged to make the pilgrimage to Mecca (Makkah at least once in their life.
Apart from leading to a greater “Taqwa” (Consciousness of God) some experts claim that restricting food intake during the day can help to prevent health problems and improve mental health. If you have certain types of health issues (compromised Health), consult your Imam and Doctor to best advise you, because it can lead to low blood sugar levels causing reduced concentration and increased fatigue .
The good news is that sustainable weight loss is only possible with regular fasting and any weight loss during Ramadan could easily be reversed once you return to your routine eating habits. The benefits of fasting outweigh the cons, and in the long run properly planned fasting even after Ramadan period can improve one’s digestive system and general metabolism.
General advice to travellers: If you are travelling during this period, consult your Imam as to exemptions for travelers amongst other exemptions. Good preparation for family trips lead to less stress, is better for your health, and it is also a sign of an organised and alert mind.
Your to do list is essential, however, always do a head count for groups on the move at every stop. Fatigue and tiredness can play tricks with our minds especially during long walks.
Make sure on the list you have your essential travel documents like Passports and Visa’s, Yellow Fever cards, Medicines and the expiry dates of passports, Visas and Medicines, Mobile phones and contact addresses.
I have personally seen people arrive at airports whose passports and visa’s have expired, make sure documents do not expire during your trip. Carry just the bare essentials for the trip.
Also go along with paper wipes or Antiseptic hand sanitisers, torchlight’s. Please whatever your addictions are, do not take certain medications or illicit drugs into Saudi Arabia and do not let any stranger ask you to help carry any luggage for the person. It could cost you your life or a long jail sentence. Pack all your items yourself.
To be continued next week
Dr Ade Alakija
Q-life Family Clinic
