Mindfulness and Wellbeing in Islam

This week I decided not to answer a client question but to provide some direct reflection. As we are now in the blessed month of Ramadan, I thought it would be appropriate to keep the topic relatable. First and foremost, I say this not as an expert on Islamic knowledge or a teacher, but simply as a student of Islam, like most of us, keen to understand more about the beauty of this Religion.

We hear so much about mindfulness and positive mental health (which I am a huge fan of, as you are probably aware), and the main practices we see include meditation, breathwork, cognitive behavioural therapy, etc. We can, however, lose sight of the most important source of information that can benefit our mental health: the Qur’an and Sunnah.

The Quran: A Source of Healing

The Quran explicitly mentions its role as a source of healing and mercy for believers. Allah says, "And We send down of the Quran that which is healing and mercy for the believers..." (Quran 17:82). This verse underscores the Quran's ability to comfort the heart, ease the mind, and heal the soul. Engaging with the Quran, through reading, listening, or recitation, especially in the tranquility of Ramadan, can provide immense solace and peace, helping to alleviate stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges.

The Sunnah: Practices for Mental Well-being

The Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) offers practical examples of how to live a balanced, healthy life. He taught the importance of community, compassion, and mindfulness, all of which are crucial for mental health. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "The believers in their mutual kindness, compassion, and sympathy are just like one body. When one of the limbs suffers, the whole body responds to it with wakefulness and fever." (Bukhari and Muslim). Being mindful of those around us not only fosters a sense of community but also helps improve one’s own mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being, creating a healthier and more harmonious environment for everyone.

Ramadan: A Time for Spiritual and Mental Reflection

Ramadan provides a unique setting for deep spiritual reflection and connection, which can be profoundly healing. The act of fasting itself, prescribed for believers as a way to attain taqwa (piety), can also offer mental clarity and focus, reducing the clutter of daily life. This month encourages us to slow down, reflect on our lives, and focus on our relationship with Allah, providing a sense of purpose and peace.

Utilising Ramadan for Mental Health

• Increased Quran Engagement: Dedicate time for more profound Quran study and reflection, allowing its messages of hope, mercy, and healing to penetrate your heart.
• Mindfulness and Prayer: Engage in additional prayers and dhikr (remembrance of Allah), especially during the night. These practices can calm the mind and reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.
• Community and Connection: Although fasting is a personal act of worship, Ramadan emphasises community and shared experiences. Connecting with others, even virtually, can offer support and reduce feelings of isolation.
• Acts of Charity: Giving to those in need not only fulfils a key aspect of Ramadan but can also improve your own mental health by providing a sense of fulfilment and purpose.

My Own Experiences

I found this all myself when going through my current run of chemotherapy and the vastly different worries that come with it. By simply sitting with the Qur’an and placing my trust in Allah, all my problems seemed to melt away. This is something I wish for all of us, no matter what trials and stresses we face.

As we observe this holy month, let us remember that the Quran and Sunnah are powerful sources of healing for our mental, spiritual, and physical health. By focusing on these spiritual foundations, we not only draw closer to Allah but also nurture our well-being. Ramadan offers a precious opportunity to reset our spiritual and mental health, emphasising the importance of turning to divine guidance for healing and mercy. Let this month be a time of rejuvenation for the body, mind, and soul, as we seek to implement the holistic teachings of Islam in every aspect of our lives.