10 +1 Things You Can Do When you Can’t Fast (Or Pray)
As-salamu 'alaykum,
As Muslim women seeking the pleasure of Allah ﷻ, many of us face moments where we simply cannot pray or fast (whether due to our menstrual cycle, pregnancy, postpartum, illness, travel, or another circumstance beyond our control). In those moments, it's easy to feel disconnected, or even guilty for something we have no power over.
But here is the truth: Allah ﷻ sees you. He knows your intention, understands your situation, and judges your heart, not just your actions. You are not falling behind. You are not forgotten.
"Indeed, Allah does not allow the reward of the doers of good to be lost." — Surah Yusuf (12:90)
To help you stay connected during these times, here are meaningful practices that you can draw on whenever the regular pillars feel out of reach.
Connect with the Quran: Stay close to the words of Allah ﷻ
Listen to a recitation or short tafsir talk
Even when you cannot read along, you can still receive the blessing of the Quran through listening. Put on your favourite reciter, or find a short tafsir lecture that speaks to where you are right now.
Sit with one ayah and reflect
Rather than focusing on how much you can get through, choose a single verse and give it your full attention. Read its meaning, consider its context, and ask yourself: what does this say to me today?
Try Quran art journaling
Write out or illustrate an ayah that moves you. Use a notebook, brush pens, or even a design app like Canva. This is both a creative act and an act of remembrance, beautiful in two ways.
Self-care as ibadah: Honour the body Allah ﷻ gave you
Rest → with intention
Our bodies are an amanah (trust) from Allah ﷻ, and caring for them is part of worship. Give yourself permission to rest, eat well, and slow down. Hold the intention of doing it for His sake.
Read an Islamic book or listen to a lecture
Pick up a book on Islamic history, the seerah of the Prophet ﷺ, or a topic you've been curious about. If reading isn't your preference, a lecture or podcast works just as well.
Sadaqah and giving: Let your heart pour outward
Write a heartfelt dua list
Spend time writing out duas for yourself, your family, your friends, and those you've never met. This is sadaqah of the heart, and a beautiful reminder of how connected we all are.
Donate to a cause, even a little
Charity doesn't require a large amount. Even the smallest sadaqah, given sincerely, carries weight with Allah ﷻ. If you can't give money, donate your time or share something useful with someone who needs it.
Show up for someone
Help a friend with something they've been struggling with. Check in on a family member. Being of genuine service to another person is one of the most overlooked forms of worship.
Seeking Allah ﷻ: Keep your heart turned toward Him
Make dhikr throughout your day
SubhanAllah. Alhamdulillah. Allahu Akbar. Astaghfirullah. These words cost nothing and weigh everything. Let them sit on your tongue while you cook, walk, rest, or simply breathe.
Write a gratitude list
List five blessings: specific ones, not general. The warmth of sunlight. A kind word. The fact that you are still here. Return to this list whenever you feel distant from His mercy.
Explore one of Allah's Names
Choose a Name of Allah ﷻ that speaks to you right now - Al-Lateef (the Subtle), Al-Wadud (the Loving), Al-Sabur (the Patient) - and sit with its meaning. How does it show up in your life?
You are still His servant in these moments. You are still seen, still loved, still growing. May Allah ﷻ accept every intention from each of us. Ameen.
