Practicing Mindfulness
Mindfulness means the quality or state of being conscious or aware of something. In our Islamic faith, mindfulness can be closely related to muraqabah, which is a word that originates from the root meaning “to watch, observe, regard attentively.”
According to an article published by University of California Berkeley, the practice of mindfulness allows our thoughts to tune into what we’re sensing in the present moment rather than rehashing the past or imagining the future.
Mindfulness is about being divinely present and aware of our current state, which is a state of being that allows us to be in-tune with our Creator.
Silence and Seclusion
According to a saying from our Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), “Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him speak goodness or remain silent.”
Silence and seclusion are widely practiced by Muslims during the month of Ramadan but it may be even more important during times of overwhelm. It can be achieved through minimizing one’s own conversations and listening to the conversations of others.
Silence allows for a sense of peace and stillness. It can help us achieve a sense of direction by monitoring our internal thoughts and being in-tune with the guidance of Allah.
Seclusion is an essential part of our spiritual practices as Muslim. The Prophet Muhammad stated, “Those in seclusion have raced ahead”. They said, “O Messenger of Allah, who are those in seclusion?” The Prophet said, “They are men and women who remember Allah often.”
Meditation
Meditation is a practice that embodies the art of mindfulness, stillness, and seclusion. It aids in the reduction of anxiety, stress, and negative thinking.
Meditation is practiced by people of all faith backgrounds but for Muslims, it is embedded in our spiritual practices, as we are expected to be in a meditative state during our five daily prayers.
Meditation outside of salah can be experienced by identifying a quiet and calming area to sit still. It is recommended for the area to be clean and sensory friendly (calming lights and scents).
Choose a posture that you find comfortable and focus on settling your breathing. Effectively breathing is an essential component of meditation. Lastly, silence your mind and the inner conversations you may typically have in your head.
For beginners who want to increase this practice gradually over time, it is recommended to commit to at least five minutes every day, to solidify it as a long-term habit, and gradually increase it over time as they see fit.
Tell yourself it’s okay…
We have to commit to being kind to ourselves during this Month of Mercy. It is okay for us not to be in a space of increased activity and digital engagement. It is essential for us to understand our own feelings and individual relationship with Allah.
In the end, our ultimate prayer is for forgiveness and enlightenment from Allah, The Most Merciful.
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