Dina Aziz is an influencer who has captivated a vast following with her modest sense of fashion, inspiring lifestyle, and captivating artistry. With each Ramadan, Dina shares glimpses of her planner, providing invaluable support and preparation for her eager followers embarking on their spiritual journey. With her authentic and heartfelt approach, Dina spends her time sharing her thoughts, guidance, and time to connect with people online and in person.
1. Tell us about the Ramadan Planner
The Ramadan planner is a dynamic tool meticulously crafted to elevate the Ramadan experience. It’s more than just a diary or journal – it’s a guide to a spiritually enriched month.
The primary goal of the planner is to encompass all the information needed for the holy month and have it in a journal style format with a series of reflecting spaces to help implement the necessities during the month.
By providing designated spaces for contemplation, the planner aims to foster a deeper connection with one’s faith and facilitate a more meaningful Ramadan experience.
2. What inspired you to do this book?
Many things inspired the creation of the Ramadan planner. One being that there isn’t something like this out there at the moment, I created it specially for my revert friends who were struggling during the month and have a portable space to collect their thoughts and track their tasks.
3. How does the planner help and encourage those during the fasting month
I believe with the help of constant reminders and with the help of multiple checkpoints the planner aims to create an inviting space for the reader to use for the entire month as well as year! Beginning with monthly ambitions, progressing to weekly plans, and finally daily tasks, this structured approach enhances productivity whilst keeping a simple direction that isn’t too overwhelming.
Every three days, the planner takes a little break, sharing Hadith and anecdotes whilstconnecting them to modern-day lecturers. These stories help break down the goal-setting process, keeping a nice balance during journaling and shifting your focus from planning to actually doing things.
4. Tell us about your journey during Ramadan.
Upon creating the planner my time during Ramadan has definitely changed, I now value and prioritise different things. Rather than just focusing on the aspect of abstaining from food and drink I look more towards my spiritual health and how my personal imaan is doing. Rechecking my intentions is something I have always kept on the top of my list as it can sometimes get overwhelming.
5. What are the 3 key things you would advise during Ramadan.
1. Sincerity in Intentions (Niyyah): Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Actions are but by intention, and every man shall have only that which he intended.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
2. Generosity and Charity (Sadaqah): The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity.” (Al-Tirmidhi) Emphasising the importance of charity during Ramadan, consider giving to those in need, as it holds great reward both in this life and the Hereafter.
3. Patience and Self-Control (Sabr): “O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.” (Quran 2:153) this month will be filled with a lot of struggles as well as blessings so it is important to maintain a balance of both and always keeping a positive attitude as allah does not burden a soul with more than it can bare.
6. When will the book be released?
I believe Sainsbury’s have released the planners which are available to buy in stores and the official publication release date is February the 15th.
7. Where can book be purchased?
My book can be purchased on all major platforms, Waterstones, Amazon, bookshop.org, Sainsbury’s etc. please visit link to find out more: https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/455780/ramadan-planner-by-aziz-dina/9781529907148
8. Are there any plans for more books.
Yes I definitely hope to create more books/journals in the future, I am always aspiring to improve and be better so if anything I’m hoping for future editions of the Ramadan planner.
Ramadan Planner: A guide to reflection and growth during the holy month by Dina Aziz publishes in hardback on 15th February ’24 (published by Century, a division of Penguin Random House, RRP £12.99)
Here is a pre-order/purchase link: https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/455780/ramadan-planner-by-aziz-dina/9781529907148
