Getting up in the wee hours and having pre-dawn meal (Suhoor) and fasting all the day to break (Iftar) it at dusk during Ramadan is a religious obligation performed by Muslims. The holy month, however, also offers an opportunity to the non-Muslims to observe and experience the essence of fasting.
The Gulf countries in general and Qatar in particular offer this unique opportunity to millions of non-Muslim and Muslim expatriates as they witness and experience Ramadan and the Arab hospitality. In Qatar, many non-Muslim expatriates fast during Ramadan just to have a first-hand experience of the month. Many others appreciate the generosity shown by people in general during the holy month.
Xiomara Henriquez is a professional fitness coach. “I combine my knowledge in health sciences as a biologist and clinical lab scientist with my skills as a certified personal training coach and professional fitness competitor to provide a unique experience to my clients.
Xiomara, as a professional, urges people to take control of their health and assists them in setting up goals for them. “I create customised health and fitness plans based on DISC fitness personality assessments and lifestyle. I personally guide clients through their goal setting process to help them develop the skills to take ownership of their health. I believe clients benefit more from gaining the knowledge on how to be a leader in advocating for their well-being.”
The fitness trainer has not only been training people but also doing volunteer works for different communities. “While living in Qatar, I have been taking classes in Aerial Fitness for Yama Yoga Studios and training clients at Mondrian Doha. When I am not in the gym, I would spend some time volunteering in the community as a person centred care ambassador for Hamad Medical or helping host workshops with Inspire Me. In 2019, I was chosen to co-host the Doha Women’s Forum. It was an honour to introduce special guests who spoke on gender equity.”
Like many other fitness trainers and professionals, Xiomara is also affected by the stay-at-home order triggered by the novel coronavirus pandemic. “But now social distancing has changed the way we all have been framing our daily lives.
While I am no longer able to go to the gym, I train at home and offer one-to-one sessions online to my clients. I continue to instruct online for Yama Yoga Studios on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10am. I also spend my time continuing to learn Arabic and taking courses online to further my knowledge in fitness and health. I attend online webinars to stay connected with friends and maintain a positive atmosphere.”
Xiomara says she has gained a lot by living in Qatar and experiencing Ramadan. She has actually once observed fasting for a whole month.
“As an expatriate, my experience of witnessing Ramadan in Qatar has been educational. In 2018, as a way to connect with those around me, I observed fasting for the entire month. It was a small shared experience that gave me a better insight into what the month means to Muslims and why they fast.
I learned that it is not just a cleaning of the body, but of the mind also. I am grateful for the opportunity and happy to live in a country where I am welcomed to share Ramadan as a non-Muslim.”
u201cWhile I am no longer able to go to the gym, I train at home and offer one-to-one sessions online to my clients. I continue to instruct online for Yama Yoga Studios on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10am. I also spend my time continuing to learn Arabic and taking courses online to further my knowledge in fitness and healthu201d u2014 Xiomara Henriquez
