MUSCAT, MARCH 10
While women often devote themselves to their families and loved ones, they must not forget to nurture their own well-being, says Dr Shifana Attur, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Al Hayat International Hospital.
Speaking at an International Women’s Day (IWD) event and Iftar organised by Palakkad Friends at Oman Avenues Mall on Saturday, she emphasised that a woman’s happiness and health are essential for the well-being of her family.
"Women shouldn't work 24/7. If she works six days a week, she needs a day off - to rest, recharge, and simply breathe," she stated. "Our bodies need it, our minds crave it. Ramadhan is that break in the year - a time for deep reflection, for resetting our souls, and reconnecting with ourselves."
However, Dr Shifana noted that, for many women, Ramadhan becomes an exhausting cycle of cooking, cleaning, and managing household duties instead of a time for peace and spiritual rejuvenation. "Waking up before dawn for Suhoor, fulfilling daily responsibilities, preparing elaborate Iftar meals and cleaning afterward - women are expected to do it all," she said. "It often feels less like a moment of tranquillity and more like a never-ending marathon."
She stressed the need for a shift in mindset, urging women to recognise that their strength does not lie solely in sacrifice but also in knowing when to pause and care for themselves.
"Society glorifies the image of an ‘all-sacrificing, multitasking woman', but who is taking care of you?" she asked. "If you want to spread love, you must first nurture yourself. If you want to keep your family happy and healthy, you must first take care of your own well-being."
Dr Shifana encouraged women to redefine Ramadhan as a period of nourishment - not just for their families, but for themselves. "Let’s shift the narrative. Let’s make space for ourselves. Self-care is not selfish - it is necessary," she urged.
The event featured a welcome speech by Charulatha Balachandran, Ladies Secretary, and a vote of thanks by Radhika Jayakrishnan, Ladies Joint Secretary. Other dignitaries in attendance included Sreekumar P (President), Harigovind (Vice-President), Jitesh Kutty (General Secretary), Jagadeesh (Treasurer), Srinivasan, Sureshbabu, Neethu, Vaishak, Vinod and Gopakumar (MC).
"Take time to fill your cup first, my dear sisters. Then watch how beautifully you overflow - filling the world with love and happiness," Dr Shifana concluded.
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