14 Health Benefits of Monday-Thursday Fasting, Including Intention Recitation

Pilgrims advised to reduce activities outside Arafah tents.

Monday-Thursday fasting is a sunnah practice in Islam performed every Monday and Thursday by abstaining from food, drink, and other invalidators from dawn until sunset, for the sake of Allah.

This fast is encouraged by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) due to its numerous spiritual and health benefits.

Fasting allows the body to naturally eliminate toxins.

It helps control calorie intake for stable weight.

Regular and moderate eating patterns are maintained.

It improves insulin sensitivity.

It can lower bad cholesterol levels.

The digestive system gets rest.

The body learns to manage energy more efficiently.

It helps reduce mild inflammation.

The immune system becomes more balanced.

It aids focus and concentration.

It helps reduce overeating habits.

It supports liver cell regeneration.

Regular eating patterns improve sleep quality.

It promotes mental calmness and control.

Intention recitation for Monday: “Nawaitu shauma yaumal itsnaini sunnatan lillaahi ta‘aalaa.” Meaning: “I intend to fast on Monday as a sunnah for Allah Almighty.”

Intention recitation for Thursday: “Nawaitu shauma yaumal khamiisi sunnatan lillaahi ta‘aalaa.” Meaning: “I intend to fast on Thursday as a sunnah for Allah Almighty.”