For many Muslim women, Ramadan is a time for spiritual renewal, community, and deep connection with Allah. But when menstruation begins, it can feel like a sudden “pause” on worship. The inability to pray, fast, or recite the Quran sometimes leaves women feeling disconnected from the spiritual energy of the month. This feeling can be intensified by social pressures and the misconception that women are “missing out” on key worship activities.
However, menstruation is not a spiritual break — it’s an opportunity for growth, reflection, and connection with Allah in new ways. Allah, in His infinite mercy, has exempted women from fasting and salah during menstruation, yet He still offers them opportunities to earn immense rewards. This period of rest is not a punishment but a divine mercy — a chance to realign priorities, deepen faith, and approach worship from a holistic perspective.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) affirmed the spiritual worth of women during menstruation when he consoled Aisha (RA) after she felt left out of the pilgrimage rites due to her period. He said:
“This is something Allah has decreed for the daughters of Adam.” (Sahih Bukhari)
This statement affirms that menstruation is a natural part of a woman’s life and not a hindrance to spiritual connection. In fact, it’s a time when women can engage in acts of worship that may otherwise be overlooked.
This article explores spiritual activities women can do during menstruation, practical tips to maintain spiritual momentum, and encouragement for women to recognize their unique contributions during Ramadan.
Spiritual Activities to Do During Menstruation
Although women are excused from fasting and prayer during menstruation, there are still numerous ways to remain spiritually engaged. Here are some meaningful acts of worship that bring immense barakah (blessings) and allow women to stay connected to the essence of Ramadan.
1. Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah)
Why it matters:
Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) is one of the easiest yet most powerful forms of worship. It requires no wudu, no specific time, and no special setting. It allows women to keep their hearts constantly connected to Allah, regardless of their physical state.
How to do it:
- Repeat short phrases of remembrance:
- SubhanAllah (Glory be to Allah)
- Alhamdulillah (All praise is for Allah)
- Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest)
- La ilaha illallah (There is no god but Allah)
- Dedicate specific times for dhikr, such as while cooking, folding laundry, or walking.
- Use a tasbih (prayer beads) or a digital counter to keep track of repetitions.
- Play audio dhikr while performing chores, and let your children join in.
Spiritual benefit:
Dhikr strengthens the heart and purifies the soul. It also provides emotional calm and peace, especially when facing irritability or exhaustion during menstruation. Allah says:
“Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured.” (Surah Ar-Ra’d 13:28)
2. Dua (Supplication to Allah)
Why it matters:
Menstruation is an ideal time to strengthen your relationship with Allah through dua. Dua is not limited to any specific physical state and is one of the most direct ways to communicate with Allah.
How to do it:
- Create a “Dua List” — write down specific duas you want to make every day of Ramadan.
- Set aside 10-15 minutes daily for focused dua, especially at key times like before iftar.
- Call upon Allah by His 99 Names (Asma ul-Husna) and reflect on their meanings.
- Involve your children in making dua and teach them to make personal supplications.
Spiritual benefit:
Dua strengthens tawakkul (reliance on Allah) and serves as a reminder that Allah is always listening. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“Dua is worship.” (Sunan Tirmidhi)
3. Sadaqah (Charity and Generosity)
Why it matters:
Charity is one of the most beloved acts of worship to Allah, and it is especially rewarding in Ramadan. Giving during menstruation is an act of worship that continues to bless you even after Ramadan ends.
How to do it:
- Give daily sadaqah: Donate small amounts of money to charity online each day. Even if it’s £1 or $1, it counts!
- Give non-financial sadaqah: Help a neighbor, cook iftar for friends, or volunteer at a food drive.
- Teach children to give sadaqah: Encourage children to donate toys, food, or money from their piggy banks.
Spiritual benefit:
Sadaqah purifies wealth and removes hardships from life. The Prophet (PBUH) said:
“Charity does not decrease wealth.” (Sahih Muslim)
4. Listening to the Quran
Why it matters:
While reciting the Quran is restricted for menstruating women (according to many scholars), listening is not. By listening, women can maintain a connection with the divine message.
How to do it:
- Listen to Quran recitation on Quran apps or YouTube while doing housework.
- Choose one surah daily and reflect on its meaning.
- Use headphones for personal reflection time to avoid distractions.
Spiritual benefit:
Listening to the Quran nurtures emotional well-being and invites tranquility into the home. It also strengthens understanding and love for the words of Allah.
5. Tafakkur (Reflection and Contemplation)
Why it matters:
Tafakkur is the act of reflecting on Allah’s creation and mercy. It is a powerful act of worship that requires no physical action, only the mind and heart.
How to do it:
- Reflect on Allah’s creations, like nature, family, and the human body.
- Journal your reflections on Quranic verses.
- During moments of stillness (like before bed), ponder Allah’s wisdom in the events of your life.
Spiritual benefit:
Reflection on Allah’s creation strengthens iman (faith) and nurtures a deep sense of humility. Allah encourages tafakkur in the Quran:
“Do they not reflect upon the Quran, or are there locks upon their hearts?” (Surah Muhammad 47:24)
How to Mentally Stay Connected to Ramadan
To avoid spiritual burnout and maintain a sense of connection, women must engage their hearts and minds even when their bodies are resting. Here are practical strategies to stay spiritually engaged:
1. Stay Consistent With a Daily Routine
Create a worship schedule that works around your menstrual cycle. Include activities like dhikr, dua, and sadaqah. Use a daily Ramadan planner to track your progress.
2. Join Virtual or Local Ramadan Circles
Attend online Islamic classes, lectures, or halaqas (study circles) during your period. Listening to Islamic reminders keeps the spirit of Ramadan alive in your heart.
3. Use the Power of Intention
Every act of service, kindness, and caregiving can become worship if done with the right intention. Cooking for iftar, caring for children, or even making dua for loved ones is rewarded as worship.
4. Practice Self-Compassion
Don’t be too hard on yourself. Menstruation is not a spiritual punishment. Allah knows your physical limits. Instead of feeling guilty, focus on quality worship.
Conclusion: A Time for Growth, Not Pause
Menstruation is not a spiritual setback — it’s an opportunity for deeper worship. While women may not be able to fast or pray during this time, they have countless avenues to draw close to Allah. Acts like dhikr, dua, sadaqah, listening to the Quran, and tafakkur create a spiritual environment filled with barakah.
The most important reminder is this: Your worship still counts. Allah sees your patience, effort, and intentions. He knows the physical toll of menstruation and rewards every act of patience with mercy.
This Ramadan, shift your perspective. Worship isn’t only about salah and fasting — it’s about staying connected to Allah in every way possible. Your heart, mind, and soul are still fully capable of worship.
Take Action:
Choose one daily act of worship from this list and stay consistent throughout your period. Focus on connection, not perfection. May Allah grant you ease, acceptance, and closeness to Him this Ramadan. Ameen.
