Afternoon reboots…

“The replenishing thing that comes with a nap — you end up with two mornings in a day.” – Pete Hamill. 

The Qaylulah, Siesta or power nap has been a part of my Ramadan arsenal for a few years now and I think I may have finally mastered the art. As someone who is sleep averse and does not/can not nap at any time during the rest of the year, I find great solace in adopting this prophetic-inspired habit during the month of Ramadan. 

In Arabic, “Al Qaylulah” means “the mid-day rest”, which can be a short nap or rest period. It was a practice of the Prophet Muhammad (صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم) as well as his companions.

“We used to offer the Jumuah Salaah with Nabi (صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم) and then take the afternoon nap.” (Al-Bukhari)

It is the most practical means of maximising morning productivity while facilitating the balance in energy levels to allow for the endurance and stamina needed for the rest of the day.  I honestly can not fathom a Ramadan routine without it.

Ishaaq ibn ‘Abd-Allah said: “Taking a nap is one of the deeds of good people. It revitalizes the heart and helps one to pray Qiyaam Al-Layl.”

It does just that. While there is a plethora of health and other benefits associated with day time naps, I’m grateful for the wisdom in this simple but often overlooked Islamic tradition. 

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