Walking in Ramadhan: A Unique Experience for Body and Soul
During the last hours of the day, before the maghrib call to prayer and the breaking of the fast, many citizens and residents flock to walk in designated areas on streets and tourist walkways. At the same time, others prefer to walk after eating their iftar meal, especially in places that provide a safe and comfortable environment for pedestrians.
In Ramadhan, walking after sunset takes on an added dimension, as fasting and physical activity meet to create a unique and stimulating experience for the body and mind. Walking at this time promotes physical health, helps to renew activity and increase the basal metabolic rate. It also works to clear and calm the mind, making it effective in achieving balance between the soul and body, and enhancing willpower and concentration.
This month, the capital Muscat and other areas in the Sultanate of Oman are witnessing a noticeable increase in the number of walkers who practice walking. This increased turnout for physical activity reflects a positive interaction with the many health benefits that walking offers.
The increase in the number of people who practice walking in Ramadhan is also a clear indicator of the growing awareness of the importance of physical activity and its positive impact on public health. Through this simple sporting activity, individuals express their desire to take care of their physical and psychological health during the holy month of Ramadhan.
The Government of the Sultanate of Oman has also played a vital role in promoting health aspects by establishing networks of sidewalks and walkways with longitudinal dimensions, and finding vents and parks that serve the public benefiting from the city. The government is keen on creating green spaces on beaches, within residential neighbourhoods, on open squares, public and secondary roads, and various locations suitable for agriculture and afforestation.
As a result of these efforts, it is noticeable that many citizens have begun to accept the practice of walking. They benefit from the infrastructure available for walking in different places, which enhances awareness of the importance of physical activity and contributes to improving the health and fitness of the community in general.
Omar al Balushi, one of the practitioners of walking in the month of Ramadhan, said that we find in this sport an opportunity to renew physical activity and achieve integration with nature at times that reveal its beauty before sunset.
Al Balushi added that the existence of an appropriate infrastructure makes it easier for people to practice sports and physical activities with their friends and relatives. It encourages us to go out and enjoy nature and the fresh air, which enhances the health and fitness of the community in general.
There are also many charitable initiatives during the month of Ramadhan to encourage people to practice walking, the most prominent of which is the “Benevolent Step” initiative through the Vodafone mobile phone application, which enables its subscribers to double the good and leave a positive impact on society with every step they take.
The initiative aims to harness modern technology to encourage healthy habits and sound practices, and to transform daily steps into charity in partnership with the Al Rahma Charity Organization.