Why Pu-erh tea is your go-to hot beverage during Ramadan

This Ramadan, try a cup of Puerh tea – little known to the East, this fermented tea has been long valued in Chinese medicine for its vast benefits.

An ideal hot beverage for the holy month of Ramadan, it will awaken your senses after a long day of fasting, rehydrate your body and aid digestion after a heavy meal. Although caffeinated, Puerh tea is known to help control your sleep and wake cycles, meaning it will help you stay alert during taraweh and to adjust to night prayers. It also reduces stress and stabilizes your mood due to micro-organisms which increase the production of melatonin in the brain.

Well-rounded and smooth in texture, its earthy notes will remind you of a certain vintage elegance and can be balanced by a subtle sweetness. Puerh will also nicely complement dim sums, a heavy meal, an aged cheese and will leave you feeling light and energized for a night of worship.

Ramadan Kareem!

When celebs speak up to defend Islam

We are used to hear the most downright offensive and racist comments about Islam in the news, with the usual misconceptions that tag along.. terrorism, jihadists, cutting off hands, oppressed women, etc etc. Nothing new here.
So, when (non-Muslim) celebrities raise their voices to defend Islam, I'm all ears!

Recently, many A-list singers, sportsmen and actors showed their support on social media to #FreePalestine and end the ongoing war in Gaza. From Madonna to Javier Bardem, their support certainly enlightened many and helped educate the masses. Another propaganda?

But every now and then a more profound, passionate, angry and REAL retort makes headlines, just like Ben Affleck on the TV show "Real Time with Bill Maher" on HBO, Russell Brand on his daily show "The Trews" and a few others.

Watch Ben Affleck lose his temper against stereotypes on Muslims:

Russel Brand and Alec Baldwin on "The Trews":

Islamic fashion designer Annah Hariri

I have never been able to find a suitable translation for the french saying 'Coup de coeur' - which literally could be translated as 'heart stroke' in English! Its true meaning is an instant liking in something and, what better way to describe how I fell in love with Annah Hariri's designs.. and since this post is about fashion, why not throw in a little French!

The modest clothing design brand is the brainchild of a European revert, Annah, who created the brand in 2012 shortly after her conversion.
Annah says, "I reverted to Islam and the hardest challenge was to start wearing hijab as I had an enormous ego and love for fashion, clothes and myself. Moreover there was no proper clothing in the market for a working hijabi lady. Actually you could find a few modest items but those would be high street brands which are too pricey and it is an “ihlas” to spend this much on the clothes. So most girls would buy under shirts and wear them under the normal office shirts, tops and even beautiful cocktail dresses (indeed almost under everything because all clothes are either short sleeved or transparent or too tight). Those under shirts did not look right to me. I thought to myself that there has to be another way, an easier way for modest women in the community to dress, women that follow trends, but still be modest and true to the order of hijab & covering their beauty."

An Islamic art exhibition to get excited about (Downtown Dubai, UAE)

Ripple by Siddiqa Juma

I am announcing with great pleasure (and excitement) the upcoming 'Downtown Ramadan' exhibition, to be held at 'The Gallery' at Emaar Pavilion and 'Downtown' with 27 inspiring artworks from the London-based Islamic art gallery Ahlan Art Gallery. 

The handpicked selection by Emaar, in collaboration with art curators, includes a variety of styles and methods such as Arabic calligraphy, photography, watercolour and acrylic paintings, mixed media, showcasing verses of the Holy Quran, names and attributes of Allah, Mosques, Islamic culture and much more.

Hassan Mawji, founder of Ahlan Art gallery said: 'We're honoured to be working with Emaar Properties to showcase our Islamic Art gallery in the heart of Dubai. Founded in London, Ahlan Art gallery are at the forefront of creating a new narrative for Islamic Art by bringing to surface a diverse range of international artists and artwork.'

New Muslim Summit guide (Dubai, UAE)

On January 16 & 17, an event just for us reverts -at last!- will welcome renowned international speakers with multiple themes, lectures, workshops, Q&A sessions, one-on-one's and more. 

The New Muslim Summit, held at The Cultural and Scientific Centre sounds like pure awesomeness. Ladies, here's what to look out for!

Get your physio-spiritual mojo on!

Today, a long overdue post on one of my fave Islamic products.. ever! Far from your everyday rug.. Timez5 is the world's first physiological and most innovative prayer mat!

As I watched a TV show reviewing the product, I quickly contacted him to review the product.. and try it for myself!
I started using Timez5 right away, after spending some time admiring the packaging (what can I do, I'm a marketeer!). But most of all, I loved its  slipcover to protect and hang the mat in your closet. Alternatively you can choose to roll it up like a yoga mat.
My first thoughts: "How will I ever go back to my regular prayer mat?!" and "I need one of these!". Although it is said the target audience is for those with joint pains, it can also be used for the 5 reasons below:

He was very friendly and agreed to it. I remember hearing the doorbell ring for delivery the second I finished performing wudhu (ablution ritual before prayers) right in time for prayer, subhan Allah!

Its pale colors are inviting and I couldn't wait to pray.

As Timez5 founder and CEO Nader Sabry puts it, "while researching the practice of prayer I discovered that our physical prostrations have many benefits beyond the spiritual, connected to our health and wellbeing, a common link with other faiths. However, these benefits were beyond the reach of many due to health issues created by our sedentary lifestyles (...)."

Pros

- More focused, better performance during prayer - it will improve your ibadah (worship)!

- Award-winning product

- Physical relief: muscle pain or stiffness, joint aches, being overweight or pregant

- Improves posture support and inflexibility

- Anti-slip base

- 1-year manufacturing warranty

- Countless amazing little things that make a huge difference, see video below!

Cons

- You might want to take a nap on it after prayer. Yes, it's that comfortable!

- 270$ + shipping (direct door-to-door delivery internationally).. can you swing it? But makes an unforgettable gift, investment and experience! (order here)

- The experience of stepping onto the mat is one of floating which can be disconcerting for the first time

You've been warned.. you will fall in LOVE with it!

Feel free to to follow Timez5 on Facebook, Twitter @TIMEZ5 and YouTube.

Website : www.timez5.com

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (Abu Dhabi, UAE)

A week before Rihanna's controversial visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, I decided to do some sight-seeing and finally drove to Abu Dhabi's most talked-about landmark.

Recently ranked by the world’s largest travel community TripAdvisor as among the world’s Top 25 landmark attractions, I had always been sceptic to visit after hearing about the opulence of the site. 

Instead, I was stunned by the Mosque's beauty and serenity upon my arrival.

I directly asked for a 'walk-in' group tour with a guide, which lasted around twenty minutes as he explained the meaning behind the Masjid's minarets, design, architecture and the principles of Islam. I learned a lot of interesting facts, such as:

"Muslims of the World": Lujayne's answer

Muslims of the World is a brand new Facebook page, dedicated towards taking a photographic census of Muslims around the world. The concept is to read their short answers on one simple, yet meaningful question. 


The question I was asked was ""What are you grateful for, and why?"

And my answer:

"Alhamdulillah, as a French convert I am grateful for my parents to have both embraced Islam. I feel like this is the deepest, strongest connection and support I could ever ask for.
I witnessed my own mother's shahadah (declaration of faith) two years ago and both my parents witnessed mine. These moments are forever carved in my memory."

What are you grateful for?

Best Ramadan ads & reminder..

I work in the field of marketing & PR and I just love the creativity of advertising masterminds.. especially when it comes to Islamic marketing!

Prophet Mohammed (Peace be Upon Him) taught us about business ethics and how false advertising - making incorrect claims about the product we want to sell - hurts the business. Even if it appears to be increasing sales, it is damaging in the long-run.

“Avoid swearing falsely in order to sell your goods. Apparently it appears to be promoting your business, but in fact it lets your business down and damages the goodwill of your business.” [Muslim]

I have selected a few Ramadan ads that I personally like.. I'll let pictures speak for themselves. Which one is your favorite?

 

Feeling disconnected? The post-Ramadan syndrome

Eid was a week ago.. and life is back in full swing.

My Muslim colleagues laugh about their nights out drinking, go back on their cigarette breaks, bars are back in business in the Middle East and the dress code is considerably 'shorter' and well, barer. 

Tonight, an acquaintance even told me she wishes she knew I was a Muslim earlier, as she likes to hang out with Muslims during the Holy Month. I asked, what about the rest of the year???

Feeling low?

Inspring Muslims Series: George 'Ibrahim' Green (New York, USA)

Ibrahim, you and I go way back. When we first met, you were on tour with Kanye West & Black Violin as I was promoting the concert in Dubai, UAE. Few years later, we both were on the same tour in South Africa with Akon, Fat Joe and Black Violin and would occasionally meet up whenever I visited NYC. I remember you taking me to Malcolm X & Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial Center ; this was an incredible experience for me (I highly recommend visiting it).

It was a HUGE surprise to me when a year later, I found out you became my Muslim brother.. I feel so blessed to have witnessed your spiritual journey to Islam. Allahu Akbar!

I will focus on your new life as a Muslim, however our readers can listen to your recent interview on your background and the music industry on Saudi radio channel MIX FM here.

Can you tell us about yourself? 

I am from Harlem New York in New York City. My religious work background consists of giving dawah globally to Muslims and Non-Muslims, motivating the youth through my own journey. My religious work also consists of working with non-profit organization Muslims Giving Back and the Canadian Dawah Association (CDA).

Embracing Islam is obviously a long-term result of many years of soul-searching, but can you tell us what inspired you the most in your decision? 

I would have to say the beauty in the Adhan (call to Prayer) is what initially sparked my interest in Islam. 

Superheroes: Prophet-inspired?

People are fans of famous singers, sports players, actors, socialites, models and other celebrities.. I can't help but wonder: how do they all really contribute to our society?
Superheroes also have a strong following of their own and I couldn't help but to notice similarities in their man-made nature with... the Messengers of God (Peace Be Upon Them). And my question is, why aren't our Prophets our real Superheroes??

Iftar meals distribution (Dubai, UAE)

For the second year, DU joined forces with Emirati-run social media PR agency Think Up to distribute iftar meals daily in the UAE as part of their Mawaed Al Rahman campaign for the Holy month of Ramadan.

Introducing the "Suhoothie" recipe - Smoothie for Suhoor

My first Ramadan back in 2002 was a fun, exciting and highly spiritual experience I will always remember with a smile ; falling asleep on the prayer mat during fajr morning prayer (that's if I heard the alarm), somehow learning Arabic verses with the wrong pronounciation, breaking my fast with Diet Coke and chocolate (that was another year when I piled on the pounds), feeling lost during Taraweh, sleeping all day etc...

I also remember the incredible feeling after completing a full day of fasting and all five prayers for the first time. I was on top of the world and I felt full of radiance and light!

Over the years, I have worked hard on figuring out what works best for my health and diet during Ramadan. Year after year, I welcome Ramadan as a much-needed purification for the soul, mind and body.

This month, I developed and perfected my smoothie recipe that I whip up for the morning meal suhoor :
1) it is filling (but not heavy on the stomach) and provides the necessary nutritional values you'll need in the morning
2) it keeps you hydrated,
3) it contains vitamins, oils and fat (the good kind) that are essential to our well-being
4) the whey powder gives me the protein I need as a vegetarian, but also reduces hunger and improves the immune system

Basically, it boosts your energy for the rest of the day and brings countless health benefits to your body. I call it the "SUHOOTHIE"!

Interfaith Friendships : can we learn from one another?

A belated Ramadan Kareem to y'all!

This month, Good Taste magazine asked me to answer a few questions as a Muslim convert together with a friend of my choice from a different faith. The magazine's summer issue focuses on the Holy month of Ramadan, in which they raise an interesting topic of "Interfaith Relationships".

This made me wonder why it is hardly talked about, as Islam actually encourages interfaith harmony.

I chose my friend Amanda who is an Australian Christian Catholic (as I was before I embraced Islam) woman who has been studying religions for many years.

Muslim community in Toronto & Mississauga (Ontario, Canada)

Salaam!

After spending 2 months in Toronto, Ontario, I am reflecting on my experience as a revert Muslim fasting in Canada during Ramadan.

Some time in mid-July, while on vacation, I received a phone call from work to visit Toronto for only 5 days on business, after which I would resume my vacation back home with family and then return back to Dubai (where I reside). I had my Ramadan all figured out and planned in Dubai : volunteering, taraweeh prayers at my usual Ramadan masjid with friends, iftar invitations, spiritual talks etc.
Once again, I was reminded by Allah azza wa jal that no matter how much planning we do, we have no control of what is destined for us, subhanAllah.

The 5 days turned into 2 months of intense work, with a busy schedule from morning till night. I was at first seized with panic at the thought of not being able to achieve as much as I'd hoped during Ramadan. Although it was a very different Holy Month of Ramadan for me, I feel I've learnt so much and experienced incredible things with amazing accounters.

I quickly researched all masjids and Islamic centers. A dear sister of mine from Al Huda Sisters group in Dubai was very helpful and recommended the Al Huda Insitute in Mississauga, as well as asked her friends there to look after me. I couldnt believe the warm welcome I received from total strangers! I was chuffed and still am to witness with my own eyes the bond and comfort of our Muslim community and Ummah worldwide.

Al Huda Sisters group : A New Beginning (Dubai, UAE)

My first post is dedicated to the al Huda Sisters group and now 'markaz', or (Islamic) center, located in Dubai, UAE.

'Al Huda' is the Arabic word for 'guidance' and truly every student, including my

self, has a unique, touching story as to how they found the group and joined.

In my case, back in 2007, I had just graduated from university in France, my home country, and moved on my own to Dubai (U.A.E.) at the age of 23, to start my career.

You see, I had already embraced Islam for some time, but back there I was isolated from the Muslim community (the mosque was not in a safe neighborhood).

When I moved to Dubai, the first thing I wanted, was to find another revert like myself! After years of isolation in France I started thinking there were no others!

A month after my arrival, I was grocery shopping one evening and I was stoked when I saw a white, blue-eyed girl, wearing hijab. After a long hesitation, I went up to her - guess where she was headed that night? To Eman alObaidi's home - and it was a stepping stone in my journey of faith.

Who is Eman alObaidi?

She is the co-founder and teacher of what is today a woman's Islamic Center called the "AlHuda Sisters" Markaz, located in Umm Suqeim in Dubai (UAE).

It started off with a friend, then later developed to a small group, which became larger, friends brought their friends, who brought their own - there are now 250 students, classes every day and women abroad (Brazil, USA, Malaysia, Egypt, etc) from all around the world, can now listen to them live, online.

Why are the classes so popular?

Because it all started with good intentions to seek knowledge in Islam and to please Allah. And Allah guides the one who wants to get closer to Him.

Along the way, there were difficulties finding a permanent venue to teach at, we moved from mosque to mosque, spent two years at the Ladies Club, but after answering to every test with patience, on May 9th, 2011, we were gifted with an invaluable blessing : a beautiful villa close to the beach, near a mosque, with a library, classrooms fitted with livefeed on flat screen TV's, a prayer room and playroom for kids.

So, long live to the new Al Huda Sisters Markaz!
Not only I made a new friend in the supermarket but since then I am blessed with many others, who I have learned to love for the sake of Allah. I hope to see many of you join!

وَإِن تَعُدُّوا نِعْمَتَ اللَّهِ لَا تُحْصُوهَا

“…and if you count the Blessings of Allah, never will you be able to count them.” (14:34)

www.alhudasisters.wordpress.com (with map)
Facebook : http://www.facebook.com/pages/AlHuda-Sisters/97373959035?sk=info 

Twitter : @AlHudaSisters
For more details, please email alhuda.sisters@gmail.com or call +971 (0)50 585 62 14