Meditation as a Muslima: Viewing Islamic Practices through a Psychological Lense

Meditation has long been recognized for its psychological benefits across cultures and spiritual traditions. Prior to reverting to Islam, I engaged in mindfulness and meditation sessions regularly. Looking at prayer, Quran study + memorization, and dhikr as forms of meditation has helped me recognize their positive effects on my well-being.

Psychological Benefits of Meditation

Research has shown that meditation is correlated with a multitude of psychological benefits. It's important for me to note that I am not claiming meditation directly causes these benefits, but that it is correlated with them. Every person is different, so results will vary between individuals even when implementing the exact same practice!

1. Stress Reduction: Engaging in meditation has been linked to reduced levels of stress hormones such as cortisol. By calming the mind and promoting relaxation, meditation helps alleviate stress and its associated physical and mental effects.

2. Improved Emotional Regulation: Regular meditation practice enhances emotional resilience and improves the ability to manage emotions effectively. This is particularly beneficial in navigating daily challenges and maintaining emotional stability.

3. Enhanced Concentration and Focus: Meditation strengthens attentional control and cognitive function, leading to improved concentration and focus. This heightened awareness fosters greater productivity and mental clarity in various aspects of life.

4. Increased Self-Awareness: Through introspection and mindfulness, meditation cultivates self-awareness by encouraging individuals to observe their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors without judgment. This heightened self-awareness facilitates personal growth and self-improvement.

5. Reduction of Anxiety and Depression Symptoms: Studies indicate that meditation can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression by promoting relaxation, regulating emotions, and fostering a sense of calmness and stability.

6. Enhanced Resilience: Meditation strengthens psychological resilience by equipping individuals with coping mechanisms and stress-management techniques. This resilience enables better adaptation to life's challenges and adversities. Park & Cohen (2003) found that when individuals attributed life challenges to a purposeful higher power, they had more successful outcomes than individuals who attributed challenges as chance happenings. Attribution Theory and the role of religious support are further discussed in this 2016 research by You & Yoo.

7. Increased Compassion: In a 2013 study, Condon et al. found that participants who engaged in secular meditation over an 8 week period had higher compassionate responses than the control group! See the full study here.

My Meditation Practice

I consider prayer to be the best form of meditation. When we pray, we start by setting our intention. During prayer, we keep our minds focused on worship as we recite the prayer and go through the physical movements. This synchronized focus, recitation, and movement aligns the mind, body, and spirit. And we do this 5 times every day! Praying at designated prayer times can regulate our biological clock and strengthen our connection with nature.

Dhikr is another powerful form of worship that can yield some of the same psychological benefits of meditation, especially when performed regularly. It's that continuous focus on connection with Allah (SWT) and removal of distractions that's the most important thing.

Studying and memorizing the Quran is another great practice that has mental health benefits. Memorizing text and learning a new language are activities correlated with protection against Alzheimer's! The benefits of this activity go beyond the benefits of regular meditation. When I consider the health benefits along with my religious obligation to study the Quran, it keeps me motivated.

Conclusion

Framing parts of my religious practice through a psychological lense has not only connected me more deeply with Allah (SAW) and the teachings of Islam but has also improved my mental health. Drawing on research-supported benefits, I find solace, strength, and clarity in prayer, enriching my journey of faith and personal growth. As I continue to explore the profound depths of Islamic religious practices, I am grateful for the holistic benefits they bring to my life—spiritually, emotionally, and psychologically.