{
  "abstract": "Objectives Occupational therapy promotes holistic, person-centred practice that includes spiritual and religious occupations. However, many practitioners report uncertainty or discomfort in addressing these areas. This abstract aims to reflect on Ramadan as a meaningful occupational context and to demonstrate how everyday occupational therapy practice can more confidently and compassionately support Muslim service users and colleagues.Methods Using a reflective, practice-led approach informed by occupational therapy models, literature, and lived experience as a Muslim occupational therapist, this work explores Ramadan through an occupational lens. Common Ramadan occupations are described alongside reflections on clinical encounters, workplace experiences and observed gaps within current practice. Emphasis is placed on dialogue, collaboration and responsiveness rather than religious expertise.Results Reflection highlights that Ramadan significantly reshapes routines, sleep patterns, energy levels, habits, roles and priorities. Fasting, prayer, charity and community engagement influence occupational performance and therapeutic participation. When explored collaboratively, these occupations present opportunities for tailoring interventions, promoting energy conservation, supporting routines and integrating meaningful goals. Practice-based strategies - such as flexible scheduling, safe fasting discussions and inclusive workplace adjustments - enhance engagement and strengthen therapeutic relationships.Conclusions Ramadan-related occupations fall clearly within occupational therapy’s scope and values. Reflective practice shows that avoiding spiritual occupations can inadvertently marginalise clients, while open, respectful conversations foster trust and occupational justice. By embracing curiosity, reflection and cultural humility, occupational therapists can translate theory into inclusive, meaningful and authentically holistic practice.",
  "authors": [
    {
      "affiliations": [
        "Clinical Safety Officer, Leeds Community Healthcare Trust, UK"
      ],
      "name": "Zara Mahmood"
    }
  ],
  "title": "3 An occupation-focused guide to Ramadan",
  "uid": "ab0d26f2-ee68-516f-9671-e69e73b6dfce"
}