Before diving into the physical and spiritual preparations for Ramadan, it's important to start with gratitude. We take time to reflect on all the blessings in our lives and express our gratitude to Allah. This helps us cultivate a positive mindset and prepares us for the spiritual journey ahead.
Ramadan requires us to fast from dawn till dusk, so it's important to take care of our physical health in the lead-up to the month. We make sure to eat well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, and stay hydrated. This helps us maintain our energy levels throughout the day and keeps our bodies strong.
Ramadan is not just about abstaining from food and drink, but it's also about deepening our spiritual connection with Allah. To prepare mentally and spiritually, we start by setting intentions for the month. We make a list of our goals and aspirations, and how we can work towards them during Ramadan. We also spend time reading Quran and reflecting on its teachings. This helps us get in the right mindset and prepares us for the spiritual journey ahead.
With busy work schedules and other commitments, it's easy to get caught up in the chaos of everyday life. To make the most of Ramadan, we make a schedule that includes time for prayer, reflection, and community service. We also make a meal plan for the month to make sure we have healthy and nutritious meals to break our fast with.
Ramadan is a time for reflection and spiritual growth, so it's important to surround ourselves with positive energy. We spend time with family and friends who uplift us and support us on our journey. We also listen to lectures and attend events that help us deepen our understanding of Islam.
At ZUDO, we understand the importance of having daily reminders of our faith. That's why we encourage our customers to incorporate our products into their daily lives, not just during special occasions like Ramadan. By having jewelry and home decorations representing our beliefs, we are constantly reminded of our values and the importance of our faith. Our pieces are visual reminders to stay grounded and present, even during the busiest days. So whether it's wearing a necklace with a Quranic verse or hanging a canvas with a Dua in our home, we are always surrounded by our faith.
The key to getting mentally and spiritually prepared for Ramadan is to approach it with an open heart and a willingness to grow. By focusing on our faith, setting goals, and prioritizing our well-being, we can create a meaningful and fulfilling experience during this holy month. By following these tips, we can make the most of this special time of the year and deepen our connection with Allah. Ramadan Mubarak!
CHECK IN WITH YOUR GOALS
CREATE A MANAGEABLE ROUTINE
GIVE TO CHARITY
THINK ABOUT LIFE AFTER RAMADAN
FOR THE BOLD TYPE | The one who loves making a statement.
FOR HIM | The one who appreciates details, too.
FOR THE SENTIMENTAL TYPE | The one who appreciates a deeper meaning.
Fatema Moledina is a budding British artist who, alongside her full-time photography career, creates stunning artwork. If you want to get to know her a little better like we did, keep reading!
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Tell us 3 things about yourself:
I was born in Canada
I do henna/mehndi
I love pizza
What inspired you? What is your 'why'?
I first got into arabic and islamic calligraphy pieces because I wanted a constant reminder of Allah and of Islam to display in my house, so everyday or every time I walk past, I am reminded of Allah. Quotes from the Qur’an that reassure us of Allah’s plan and path for us are what I like to focus on to constantly show us that Allah is always there.
What, in your opinion, differentiates you from anyone else in your niche?
There are a lot of artists out there that do similar work but I’d say the detail and precision in my work. It takes me hours to get small details perfect as well as personalising pieces to suit those who have commissioned them.
What made you want to collab with ZUDO? How was your experience?
Having bought their jewellery pieces before, I loved their story, how they started and what they stood for. The unity within their team and support extended to their customers was clear and after having been approached by one of their amazing Ambassadors, I wouldn’t have wanted my work displayed anywhere else!
Do you work with any other brands or NPO that people can support you through?
No! Just ZUDO and my Instagram page.
What is one thing that will always bring a smile to your face, even if you're having a hard day?
Thinking of things to be grateful for: my family, food, an education - basic things we never sit and appreciate but could be what someone prays for every single day. Also, nature - just going for a walk outside and seeing the true beauty Allah has put all around us!
What is a life motto / quote that resonates with you through every phase of life?
‘Allah is the best of planners.’ - Qur’an 3:54
This quote helps me remember, that no matter what happens - good or bad, it is Allah’s plan for us and it is best for us even if we may not understand it.
Where can people find you (links)
Instagram: @fmerali.art
Here is why you shouldn't!
YOU WORK HARD FOR YOUR MONEY
We see you hustling every day so that you can live the life you want. That's why we understand how precious each dollar you earn is. Purchasing something with a reduced price point comes hand in hand with reduced quality. More often than not, it will result in purchasing low quality items more frequently (are you still with me?)
Why not invest a few more dollars into pieces that will be worth your money, and last as long as an heirloom piece for the next few generations?
YOU DESERVE BETTER
...and so does your skin! Low quality jewelry is made from low quality materials that do not react well to your skin.
Cheap metals can corrode in moist climates - this can either be from wet conditions (i.e. not drying the area thoroughly when in contact with water) or from your natural body oils reacting to the metal.
Say 'NO' to green skin and treat yourself to jewelry that will last.
MAKE YOUR LIFE EASIER
Whether you want to dip into a pool, workout at the gym or are a naturally clammy person - you shouldn't have to worry!
Let jewelry brands do the 'worrying' for you, by creating tarnish-free and waterproof jewelry, so that you can simply focus on living your life and engaging in activities worry-free!
Tarnish free jewelry will save you the time of having to take all your rings off every time you wash your hands (which is a very real situation during these covid times!)
Choose better, choose higher quality, choose yourself.
]]>We are so excited to announce the ZUDO x BUCKLE Fall Fashion Show at the Mall of Millenia ! After 2 years of not being able to meet you at our conventions, we are BACK!
You are all welcome to check out our 2 day pop-up shop at the Buckle store, showcasing our best sellers (as well as some new unreleased and unseen pieces, exclusively available at the pop up!)
If you've missed fashion shows as much as we have, you'll also be able to see over 20 models showcase the latest fall trends. Event styled by the wonderful Laila Maali!
Looking forward to seeing everyone!
Details:
Location:
The Mall at Millenia in the Buckle store, located on the lower level.
ZUDO's range of custom jewelry is the best solution to this! We don't just do standard personalization. We go a step further so that you can gift them a piece of you that’s unique and meaningful.
We promise they’ll never want to take it off.
Keep reading to discover our unique range of custom jewelry!
01. Custom Handwriting Jewelry
For a gift that’s unlike any other, we can turn your handwriting into a beautiful necklace, bracelet of ring, that lets a part of you stay with your loved one. (Or a part of a loved one stay with you). Use your signature, a favorite quote the two of you share, or even an extract from a love letter to create a piece that is truly personal to only you. Handwriting jewelry guarantees that your gift will be one of a kind, exactly like the relationship you have with the person you want to give it to.
ZUDO's custom handwriting necklace is available in 4 lengths and you can choose a metal of your choice. It’s guaranteed to tug at heart strings!
02. Custom Drawing Necklace
For those with a creative flair who think outside the box, a custom drawing necklace is a rare and beautiful gift they will adore. Through us at ZUDO, you can turn any doodle, drawing or sentimental sign into a piece of jewelry! This makes for great gifts for little ones too! Transform a child's drawing into a memorable keepsake for you (or for them!) and wear it with an elegant pride!
Available in 18k gold rose gold or silver, these beautiful necklaces will stand the test of time, just like your memories.
03. Engraved Spiral Ring
Beautifully subtle and sleek, our two name spiral rings make the perfect present for those with minimalist taste. Personalize your ring with complimentary engraving in a language of your choice.
And if there are little ones at home, upgrade to three names to create a special family heirloom that can be passed down through the generations.
(If you prefer a simpler style, we have a signet bar ring that can be personalized in any language too!)
04. Engraved Cuff for Him
Perfect for the man in your life, ZUDO's engraved cuffs are bold, minimal and built to last. Choose any word or phrase - or if you want to make it even more special (which we always recommend!) opt for a cuff that can be etched with your handwriting! I mean, it leaves us speechless every time! Available in gold rose gold or silver, you can choose a cuff that compliments your partner's watch or aesthetic.
Our engraved cuffs can be stacked with our Islamic inspired cuffs. Gift a gentle reminder of your love and faith, all in one!
05. Handwriting Bracelet
Handwriting jewelry isn’t just about necklaces. If your significant other already has an overflowing necklace collection, this bracelet could be the perfect alternative. It has the same unique personalization that our original handwriting necklace offers, in a subtle, dainty bracelet that’s perfect for day or night wear.
Whether it’s your handwriting or loved ones that you want to capture forever, this piece is guaranteed to provide sentimental value for years to come.
06. Family Tree Necklace
Personalization is set to be one of the year's biggest jewelry trends. One size fits all is no longer acceptable. Your loved one wants pieces that are perfectly tailored to them. Our family tree necklace provides exactly that.
Include up to 4 names in this stylish pendant necklace. You can choose the metal, language, and chain length to really make it your own. The pendant is of the highest quality and is hypoallergenic, making it safe for delicate skin.
07. Custom Name Stud Earrings
Is she obsessed with ear candy? Gift her a piece that will always be unique to her with our custom name stud earrings. They’re perfect if you’re looking for a subtle piece of custom jewelry.
08. Infinity Necklace
Last but certainly not least is this unique 2 name infinity necklace. Dating back over 2300 years, the infinity sign is one of the oldest symbols on earth, appearing in nearly all modern cultures.
The infinity symbol represents an unbreakable and timeless bond. Could there be a better gift for your loved one?
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Whether you’re looking for a gift for a birthday, Valentine's Day, or anniversary, ZUDO's collection has beautiful, custom handwriting jewelry that your loved ones will cherish for years to come. The pieces shown above are just a fraction of what ZUDO offers! Discover the entire collection.
It's no secret that over the years, accessorising has become an almost unconscious act. Grabbing a necklace or watch before you leave the house is part of our daily routine. However - most of us still like to embody a sense of individuality, by finding jewelry that is different, and personal to us.
Enter: ZUDO.
Whether you're planning to walk down the aisle on your wedding day or an aisle of a plane, packing your jewelry safely is a trick that everyone should know this summer!
At ZUDO, we've been handling jewelry for so long that we feel the need to share a few valuable tips to keep your pieces tangle free for life.
Whether it's your name necklace, or Allah medallion - you have chosen your accessories very carefully. It only follows that every single piece in your collection should be carefully packed so that they can have a long life with you!
If you're the type of person who loves DIY or making use out of ordinary things - these tips are for you!
Alternatively, if you prefer to invest in something that is specifically designed to keep your jewelry safe and compact - jewelry rolls or pouches are the way forward for you!
Huge spoiler alert for our blog readers only
As you all know, we at ZUDO put you at the forefront of our minds. You help us to bring out the best of ZUDO - and this time we want to bring you a solution for all your packing problems!
We have been working extremely hard to create a jewelry roll that will not only satisfy your aesthetic needs, but also provide the highest level of function possible.
There has been a lot of back and forth during the design process (for example making sure that the integrity of the roll is not compromised, even with a cuff even with your favorite cuff inside!). But this is all part of the fun, because at the end of it, we get to bring you the very best result!
We will be launching the jewelry roll you didn't know you needed very soon. Keep a look out on our socials to get the latest updates, or sign up to our email list to be the first to know.
]]>Islam is an absolutely beautiful faith, which makes sense because The Creator, Allah, absolutely loves beauty! He has spoken with the most beautiful and eloquent language throughout His Divine Book. The prose, rhythm and rhyme of his words are absolutely incomparable to anything written by man.
So much so, that even in the shortest and simplest of verses - like the Ayatul Kursi - there is a perfect internal symmetry comprised of concentric looping.
This verse has 9 sections that focus on the description of Allah - the 5th section acts as the centre, and the 4 sections before it perfectly mirror the 4 sections after it. Take a look at this wonderful visual made by QFatima:
This verse is so pure in it's meaning, that our young ones will love learning about it! If you're looking for something to keep your little ones busy this Eid, check out this children's activity book which features visual explanations of the Ayah, where children can color in the illustrations whilst they read!
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The Ayatul Kursi is a verse that is very close to our hearts, at ZUDO. We have created an entire collection focused on this verse with the hopes that - with the daily wear of our jewelry or art pieces - it acts as your reminder to recite the verse every morning and every night. Here is a helpful roundup of all the pieces in this collection (including our newest launches!)
ZUDO JEWELRY
ZUDO HOME
Conscious consumerism is a concept that is becoming extremely crucial in every industry.
Previously, we might have focused on the consumer's need versus the cost of our product. Now, customers wonder - where do our materials come from? What value can we add to our customer's life? Can we contribute to important morals and play our part in being a conscious business?
The answer to this is - YES. A thousand times yes.
There are so many important causes around the world that need support, and our mission is to use the platform we have been given to be the voice for the voiceless.
This Eid, when you're thinking of buying presents for your loved ones, consider shopping consciously. Find out where the profits from your order will go. Research the company you are purchasing from, and whether the organizations they support also tie in with your values.
If you're looking to buy from ZUDO this Eid, here's a list of some of our pieces that give back to our non-profit Partners.
Know someone who needs new art for their wall at home? Check out this Dome of the Rock Canvas (or the print version if you prefer to choose your own frame!). Every single dollar spent on these products will go directly to the PCRF.
Inclusivity is a value that is very close to ZUDO's heart. Last year, we released a very special piece in collaboration with our family at Islam by Touch. Together, we created a Braille necklace, proceeds of which are sent to Islam by Touch, to help make Islam accessible to the blind community.
Embracing kindness is a commitment to respond with compassion and grace to all - since we are not always aware of the trauma or hardships someone may be facing. With the wonderful people at HEART, we created a Rahma ("kindness") cuff as well as a necklace (or a bundle where you can get both for less!). This is to inspire the notion of compassion - not just towards others, but also towards ourselves.
In partnership with HEART, we are raising awareness on sexual violence and educating our communities on how we can create a safer Ummah. Too often, victims of sexual assault bravely reach out to their loved ones for support, guidance, and resources, and are met with blame and shame, rather than healing and support. Purchasing any of these items will help support HEART to continue to do the incredible ground work they do.
Spoiler alert - we have a very special and NEW piece coming out on June 24th, in collaboration with HEART. To avoid missing out, make sure you have signed up for Early Access to our sale (this will give you an extra discount on top of our sale prices!) and you will be notified as soon as the products are live on our website.
Sustainable and conscious products are often more expensive and considered a "luxury" item. But not here. We ensure that our ZUDO jewelry is affordable, easily accessible and rooted in meaning.
We hope this Eid blesses you and your loved ones, in ways you haven't yet prayed for.
]]>
To our ZUDO family,
If you're reading this, it's because you're part of our #ZUDOFam and have committed to being an agent of change.
Palestine urgently needs each one of us. If you've been feeling helpless but want to help - here are some useful and trusted links:
List of Demonstrations for Palestine | Compiled by @hiddenpalestine on Instagram
Aberdeen, Scotland: May 15th (2PM) at Marischal Square]]>
Getting personal requires extra thought and extra effort. Naturally this should be matched with an extra price? Not at ZUDO! You can create a completely unique piece of jewelry for a price that anyone can afford.
Custom jewelry is not waterproof
There is a misconception that when jewelry is customizable, the quality drops because the item isn’t part of a standard collection. This could not be far from the truth. Every single item ZUDO creates withstands the test of time. The durability of our products are unmatched. So of course, you might be able to get a personalized necklace from an independent seller on Ebay or Etsy - but we can guarantee that despite wearing it every single day, or showering with it on, our quality will remain in perfect condition.
Custom jewelry for limited occasions
Traditionally, personalized jewelry would be reserved for special occasions such as engagements or weddings. However, custom jewelry can be part of your every day. There are no rules! We encourage you to be conscious about your choice in accessories, and celebrate your identity whenever you can.
Custom jewelry takes too long
You won’t need to order months in advance to receive a custom piece of jewelry. Once you place your order, it will be created and shipped out to you, in most cases, within 3-4 weeks!
Custom jewelry isn't easily accessible
Long gone are the days where you need to visit a jewelry store to get custom jewelry. As long as you have a laptop or mobile, you can visit www.zudo.co from anywhere and place your order within seconds.
]]>Us too!
Here are 6 things that might help.
01. FINISH ANY LARGE PROJECTS
This might not be possible in all cases - but try to complete any large commitments before the month starts. Work deadlines, school essays, home projects or any tasks that are incomplete can be overwhelming and distracting - and quite frankly time consuming! Do what you can, from now, to ensure that your mind is clear and focused during Ramadan.
02. EAT LESS FROM NOW
If you can start to change your eating habits, the transition into the fasting period will be much smoother. By eating less, eating healthier and making sure you eat breakfast, we can condition our bodies to be content and energized with less food.
03. SLEEP EARLIER
Are you guilty of inconsistent sleeping patterns right now? (I know I am). This affects our focus and concentration largely - which is something we want to avoid during such a Holy month. If you've been wanting to fix your sleep schedule - now is the time! Introduce the habit of sleeping after Isha, so that you feel rested and are able to wake up for Fajr with ease.
04. SET YOUR INTENTION
What would you like to achieve this Ramadan? Let's think deeply about this.
Do you want to read the entire Quran? Focus on a few Surahs and understand the meaning of each? Incorporate sunnah acts into your every day? Practice rahma and give more charity? Be kinder? Introduce one new habit with the intention to keep it for a year?
What ever your personal goal is - write it down! If you are a visual person, put it up somewhere (on your mirror, your desk, your fridge). Seeing it daily will help to keep you motivated and in check throughout the month!
05. CLEAN YOUR HOME
Clean space, clean mind. During Ramadan, our energy levels are precious (and sometimes low). Ensuring our homes are thoroughly cleaned beforehand will allow us to feel at peace, and less worried about household tasks.
This allows us to direct the attention and energy we do have to Allah (SWT).
06. CUT DOWN ON SNACKS
Maybe the most difficult one? But very important! The next time you do a grocery shop, try to be mindful of how many snacks you put in your basket? Don't get me wrong - buy them! But try to practise some mindfulness, and store fewer snacks in your home. (Unless you want to test your will power further - then let your snack drawer tease you!)
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Ramadan is our chance to cleanse ourselves from any negative influences, physically and spiritually. This could be the people we hang out with, the things we watch or the habits we have taken up.
Try to be intentional with the way you prepare for the month, and begin to practise simplicity, forgiveness and growth from now.
]]>There are a few techniques that could be helpful - we’ve detailed two below to help you or a loved one.
Above all else, remember these:
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This is a grounding technique that brings a person back to the present, and helps them to recognize that they are safe.
5 things you can see
4 things you can touch
3 things you can hear
2 things you can smell
1 thing you can taste
You can use this technique when you feel: like the anxiety is taking over; numb; like you are in a dream; lost in past events; or having an out-of-body or out-of-reality experience.
Breathing technique
Breathing can get very shallow during a panic attack.
The adrenaline is trying to prepare you for what seems like a dangerous situation and your body goes into fight or flight mode.
Put your hand below your belly button
Inhale for 4 seconds, expanding your belly
Hold for 6 seconds
Exhale for 8 seconds, letting the air out of your belly
Repeat until calm
(feel free to change up the counts - try 4 seconds square if that works better for you)
This causes an automatic nervous system shift from sympathetic state (fight or flight) to parasympathetic response.
Helpful things you could say
"You can get through this."
"I am proud of you."
"How can I support you right now?"
"Focus on your breathing. Stay in the present."
"It's not the place that is bothering you; it's the thought."
"What you are feeling is scary, but it is not dangerous."
]]>We live in an era where we are constantly functioning in a distracted mode. Can you relate? The simple fact is, if we want to achieve success in this world, and the next, we need to be more conscious of our actions, and be more intentional with our time.
(scroll down to the bottom if you'd like a beginners guide to meditation with 3 easy steps).
]]>We live in an era where we are constantly functioning in a distracted mode. Can you relate?
The simple fact is, if we want to achieve success in this world, and the next, we need to be more conscious of our actions, and be more intentional with our time.
Meditation and prayer play a large part in helping us to focus (plus they're both very strongly linked!)
(scroll down to the bottom if you'd like a beginners guide to meditation with 3 easy steps).
Meditation
Meditation is a workout for the brain. It's a way of training your mind to regulate your attention in a specific way.
The main goal of meditation, is to improve your concentration. So don't worry if your mind keeps wandering, the first few times you try it! As long as you are consistent with it, your mind will be able to focus for longer periods of time.
There are many different types of meditation, all of which are beneficial to your mind and your mental health.
What does Islam say about meditation?
During any act (but especially acts of worship) mindfulness is highly encouraged in Islam. The basis behind every act, is intention; niyyah. This is crucial to gain success in both worlds. So how can we gain a stronger sense of focus?
Enter: meditation.
This is an act you can do every single day, to bring about consciousness to each action. Most of us are guilty of scrolling through our phone as soon as our eyes open in the morning. (Sometimes an hour goes by, am I right?!) This exercise could be a great alternative to start your day on the right footing - and only takes a few minutes!
Once you incorporate this into your day, you will notice an increase in productivity and enjoyment, in your work, play and worship. Your mind will focus on each task, and allow you to complete them much quicker than if your mind kept getting distracted. This then opens up MUCH more time for you to rest, relax and enjoy the company of your loved ones.
To take it a step further, you might notice that your concentration in your prayer has increased, and you become more aware of the precious conversation you are having with God.
Tip: take 10 seconds before each prayer to think about 3 things you are thankful for, and begin your salaah with calm, focused attention.
We become more productive when we allow our mind to complete a task with full concentration.
We gain more rewards for reciting our salaah with mindfulness.
>>>Prioritize the skill of mindfulness to strive towards achieving success in this world and the Hereafter.
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Daily Meditation Routine
Highly recommended by Ibraheem Nadeem, CEO of ZUDO.
Every morning, try to do the following in bed (or whilst listening to meditation music)
01.
Think about 3 things or moments that you are grateful for.
If it's a thing, it can be small (e.g. having clothes to wear).
If it's a moment, imagine yourself back in that moment, and how you felt.
Thank God each time to ensure the gratitude reaches Him.
02.
Think about 3 things you want to accomplish this day, this week, this month, this year or this lifetime.
Imagine it as if you've already accomplished your goal (crucial!)
Manifest it into reality. Believe that it has already happened. This takes time and practice, but try to imagine how you would feel once you accomplish this goal.
03.
Send prayers and blessings to those around you and the world.
Start with your family, your friends, and then everyone around the world.
Wish good for everyone and pray for them - we want to see them winning!
If you can't wish good for others, how can you expect good vibes and blessings to come to you?
This year, kindness has more power than ever before. Every single one of us has been tested. So a little bit of rahma to our friends, family, community and ourselves goes an incredibly long way.
]]>Kindness, the effect of being friendly, generous, and considerate, costs nothing. But the impact kindness has on an individual can be immense. Not only does it affect how we feel but it also affects us physically. Hormones are released and stress levels are lowered in measurable ways. Mood is enhanced and anxiety and depression improve.
This year, kindness has more power than ever before. Every single one of us has been tested. So a little bit of rahma to our friends, family, community and ourselves goes an incredibly long way.
Random Acts of Kindness Day is a day to celebrate and encourage random acts of kindness. Since most of us are staying safe in our homes, here are a few ways to make someone's day, even during a pandemic:
Even in the most difficult times, we can choose to be kind.
This year we are trying to generate the feeling of kindness in ourselves, and then radiating it to the world! What about you?
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Here are some more ideas if you're looking for more inspo!
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