Participating in Umrah unites Muslims worldwide in devotion and is a profoundly spiritual and transforming experience. However, because of the physical strain of the trip and the harsh weather in Makkah and Madinah, staying healthy may sometimes be as difficult as locating a Wi-Fi connection in the midst of the desert. Here are some crucial pointers to help you be safe, healthy, and prepared for every stage of your pilgrimage as you prepare for this auspicious trip.
1. Become Vaccinated to Protect Others and Yourself
Make sure you have had all necessary vaccines before you even consider packing. Saudi Arabia mandates the following vaccinations:
All pilgrims must take the meningitis vaccine, which protects against bacterial diseases that may be harmful in crowded areas.
COVID-19:
The majority of nations continue to advise this, and getting a booster injection is always preferable.
Influenza:
By getting the flu shot, you may prevent a bad virus that might ruin your vacation.
You and other people are protected by the vaccines. Consider it like putting on an immune system helmet. Additionally, it keeps you from returning home with any unwanted “souvenirs”!
2. Get Ready for the Heat: Drink plenty of water!
During the hottest seasons, Makkah may become as hot as an oven, and the dry heat can make you thirsty before you can say “Zamzam water.” What’s the easiest and best approach to keep healthy in this climate? Be sure to stay hydrated! This is an effective routine:
Keep a reusable water bottle with you. Use the Zamzam water that is available in many places and keep your bottle full.
To prevent dehydration, try to have a little drink every 15 to 20 minutes.
Steer clear of sugary beverages and caffeine since they may worsen dehydration, which is the last thing you want.
Additionally, you may purchase hydration packets (the kind used by athletes) and sometimes add one to your bottle. Without the embarrassing promotion, it’s similar to Gatorade.
3. Wear Smart Clothes and Avoid the Sun
The most important thing is to dress appropriately. White reflects heat and absorbs less, thus the Ihram—two pieces of plain white fabric for males and modest clothing for women—has its advantages. Here are some tips for being stylish while adhering to the dress code:
To protect your head from the sun, put on a scarf or cap. Some pilgrims bring a tiny umbrella, even though males are not allowed to wear hats when wearing ihram.
To prevent sunburn, apply sunscreen (yes, SPF 50 or greater) to exposed areas, such as your face and neck.
Put on cozy sandals that you have already broken in. Many of the polished marble flooring in Makkah might become slick.
Avoiding sunburns, fatigue, and, god forbid, being as red as a pomegranate midway through your voyage is just as important as looking cool (literally).
4. Take a Walk Before You Go: Getting Fit for Umrah
The walking is one of Umrah’s most underappreciated difficulties. You will walk a good number of steps every day between the Tawaf (circling the Kaaba) and Sa’i (walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah).
A few weeks before to departure, begin a mild exercise regimen. Every day, take a 20–30 minute walk and progressively pick up the speed.
Some places need walking up hills, so if at all feasible, practice stairs and inclines.
To prepare your muscles, stretch every day.
Gaining leg strength and endurance is essential, particularly if you’re traveling with family or friends who could still be energetic when you’re ready to take a sleep!
5. Eat Wisely and Lightly
Indeed, the cuisine of Madinah and Makkah is excellent. Dates, hummus, and Shawarma—it’s a feast! However, use caution while consuming heavy or unusual meals as they may cause indigestion or upset stomach.
Eat lesser quantities and stick to lighter meals. Feeling too bloated during rituals is the last thing you want.
Just in case, pack some digestive remedies, such as antacids or ginger tea bags.
Food safety varies, so it’s best to be cautious while eating street food, particularly if it’s something you’ve never had before.
Despite the allure of the kebabs, keep in mind the wise maxim: eat to live, not to live to eat.
6. Take it easy and take your time
It may be incredibly taxing to do Umrah, particularly if you’re rushing through it all. Don’t overdo it and pay attention to your body.
In between rituals, take some time to relax and rejuvenate. There’s no hurry; keep in mind that your goal is to establish a connection with Allah, not to complete a marathon.
If at all possible, choose a peaceful area of the mosque and spend a few minutes lying down or sitting. The rejuvenating effects of a 10-minute nap will astound you.
This is more akin to a stroll through a very significant garden than a race. Give the spiritual path your whole attention.
7. Wash your hands and use a mask as necessary.
You will be surrounded by thousands of pilgrims from all over the globe during Umrah. It’s a good idea to keep your hands clean and have some travel-sized hand sanitizer with you.
Hands should be constantly washed, particularly before meals.
Always carry a little bottle of hand sanitizer with you.
If you’re worried about airborne infections or if it’s really crowded, think considering using a mask.
8. Assemble a medical kit
A tiny health pack may save your life, particularly if you often have colds, headaches, or minor injuries. Bring a few necessities, such as:
Painkillers (such as Ibuprofen or Panadol)
Blister plasters and bandages
If you’re not used to lengthy flights, take motion sickness medicine.
Hydration electrolyte tablets
Keeping these necessities on hand may help prevent minor problems from growing into major ones. Additionally, it eliminates the need to look for pharmacies, which may be intimidating while visiting a foreign nation.
9. Maintain Your Spiritual Fortitude
Remember the spiritual aspect of your journey among all these health recommendations. Physical health may be significantly impacted by mental and spiritual well-being. Allow yourself time to think, keep in touch with your objectives, and make time for personal duas.
Ultimately, doing the Umrah is a very warm and impactful experience. You’re preparing yourself for a more seamless, secure, and fulfilling travel by keeping these health and safety suggestions in mind. And keep in mind that having a healthy body contributes to having a healthy soul. If you go with a professional Umrah travel agency they will take care of all health related matters and guide you as well. May you have a wonderful, lovely, peaceful, and strong Umrah!
