Restricted eating, fewer hours of sleep and less exercise. They don’t sound like the perfect recipe for better mental health. But data released by charity tech platform Givematch today shows that despite these factors - 90% of British Muslims experience improved wellbeing during Ramadan.
During the holy month of Ramadan millions of British Muslims will fast from dawn until dusk. The month will also see observers praying more regularly and abstaining from bad habits - such as smoking or swearing.
Givematch’s survey of 1,000 UK Muslims found that those observing Ramadan will lose one hour of sleep every night on average. The data also found that almost half (48%) will exercise less during Ramadan, with 14% of people saying they would stop altogether.
Despite this, factors like spending more time with family and friends (44%), focusing more on prayer (53%), the clarity gained from fasting (43%), and donating to those in need (50%) all contribute to overall better wellbeing.
The survey also shed light on the spending habits of those observing Ramadan. This year, the average British Muslim will donate £150 to charity during Ramadan. An incredibly generous 1 in 5 (21%) said they planned to donate over £500 to charity this Ramadan.
The most popular causes supported are Islamic charities (69%), food charities (49%) and youth charities (41%).
The data comes from Givematch, the donation matching tech platform that helps fundraisers double their donations through social sharing. When people donate to a charity via Givematch, they receive a unique link. If they get two friends to donate via that link, their original donation is doubled.
This year, Givematch is helping to double donations for much-loved British charities, including Muslim Aid, Orphans in Need and Islamic Relief.
Ismael Dainehine, founder of Givematch, said: “Ramadan is a moment for more – more prayers, more family, more giving. Our data shows that those three crucial elements help boost the wellbeing of British Muslims during the holy month.
“When donors use our platform for their Ramadan donations, they can do double the amount of good. We’re proud to work with our charity partners this year to have a greater impact this Ramadan.”
Yusha Yung, 24, a student from South London, said: “My wellbeing definitely improves during Ramadan. I think that’s because it’s a time that gathers people together. Throughout the month, you get to eat regularly with family and friends, so it combats the negative impacts that can come from loneliness and isolation during other times of the year”
