Embracing Self-Care: Nurturing Body, Mind, and Soul

By Ishmael Mailos -

 

Embracing Self-Care: Nurturing Body, Mind, and Soul

Introduction

Feeling constantly drained and overwhelmed? You're not alone. Imagine someone juggling endless responsibilities, only to realize they’re neglecting their own well-being.  In today's fast-paced world, prioritizing self-care often falls by the wayside, leaving us feeling depleted and unable to fully engage with our lives and responsibilities. Just as we must fill a vessel before pouring from it, Islam and psychology encourage us to prioritize self-care—not as a luxury but as a necessity. By nurturing ourselves, we become stronger, more patient, and better equipped to serve others.This post explores the intersection of self-care from both psychological and Islamic perspectives, offering practical strategies for a balanced life.

 1. The Psychology of Self-Care

Self-care is more than physical relaxation—it’s an intentional act of preserving our mental, emotional, and spiritual health.

  • Mindset Psychology

Adopting a growth mindset means viewing self-care as a way to recharge and become more effective rather than seeing it as self-indulgent.

  •     Narrative Psychology

Self-care reshapes our personal stories, reinforcing the belief that we are worthy of care and compassion. This process enhances self-esteem and nurtures a positive self-image.

  •     Islamic Psychology

In Islam, self-care honors the body, mind, and soul. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the body’s rights, and self-care is deeply rooted in tawakkul (trust in Allah) and sabr (patience), inviting us to nurture ourselves as part of Allah’s trust in us.

Quranic Verse on Balance and Moderation

 وَكَذَٰلِكَ جَعَلْنَاكُمْ أُمَّةً وَسَطًا
Translation: “And thus, We have made you a balanced nation…” (Quran, 2:143)

2. Why Self-Care Is Essential for Mental Health

Understanding the psychological aspects of self-care lays the foundation for recognizing its critical role in our mental health.

  •      Reducing Stress

Consistent self-care habits help regulate stress responses, lower cortisol levels, and promote relaxation, leading to a clear mind and calm spirit. Studies have shown that regular mindfulness practice can reduce anxiety and depression by up to 30%.

  •      Emotional Resilience

Self-care nurtures emotional resilience, enabling us to better cope with life’s challenges by strengthening our internal resources.

  •     Improved Relationships

When we take care of ourselves, we can give more to others. A well-balanced state fosters healthier interactions, empathy, and compassion.

Hadith on the Rights of the Body


حَدَّثَنَا مُحَمَّدُ بْنُ مُقَاتِلٍ، أَخْبَرَنَا عَبْدُ اللَّهِ، أَخْبَرَنَا الأَوْزَاعِيُّ، قَالَ حَدَّثَنِي يَحْيَى بْنُ أَبِي كَثِيرٍ، قَالَ حَدَّثَنِي أَبُو سَلَمَةَ بْنُ عَبْدِ الرَّحْمَنِ، قَالَ حَدَّثَنِي عَبْدُ اللَّهِ بْنُ عَمْرِو بْنِ الْعَاصِ، قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ ﷺ ‏"‏ يَا عَبْدَ اللَّهِ أَلَمْ أُخْبَرْ أَنَّكَ تَصُومُ النَّهَارَ وَتَقُومُ اللَّيْلَ ‏"‏‏.‏ قُلْتُ بَلَى يَا رَسُولَ اللَّهِ‏.‏ قَالَ ‏"‏ فَلاَ تَفْعَلْ، صُمْ وَأَفْطِرْ، وَقُمْ وَنَمْ، فَإِنَّ لِجَسَدِكَ عَلَيْكَ حَقًّا، وَإِنَّ لِعَيْنِكَ عَلَيْكَ حَقًّا، وَإِنَّ لِزَوْجِكَ عَلَيْكَ حَقًّا

Translation: Narrated `Abdullah bin `Amr bin Al-`As: Narrated 'Abdullah bin 'Amr bin Al-'As: Allah's Messenger ﷺ said, "O 'Abdullah! Have I not been informed that you fast all the day and stand in prayer all night?" I said, "Yes, O Allah's Messenger ﷺ!" He said, "Do not do that! Observe the fast sometimes and also leave them (the fast) at other times; stand up for the prayer at night and also sleep at night. Your body has a right over you, your eyes have a right over you and your wife has a right over you".(Hadith)

This hadith stresses the significance of maintaining a balance in life, taking care of one's health, and fulfilling the rights of the body in terms of rest, nutrition, and overall well-being. We must take care of ourselves physically as well as emotionally by taking rest when needed and fulfilling our duties towards our family members with love and respect.

3. Spiritual Benefits of Self-Care

Islamic teachings emphasize that physical and mental well-being enhance our ability to worship and connect with Allah.

  • Clarity in Worship

Regular self-care brings peace, allowing for more focused, meaningful worship.

  • Strength in Service to Others

Islam encourages caring for others, and self-care strengthens our capacity to serve. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) balanced worship, family, and personal care, setting a holistic example of well-being.

  •  Fulfilling the Amanah

In Islam, our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being is not merely a personal matter; it's a sacred trust (Amanah) from Allah. We are accountable for how we care for these blessings.

  • The Amanah of the Body, Mind, and Soul:

 Allah has entrusted us with our bodies, minds, and souls. Neglecting them is a form of neglecting this trust. On the Day of Judgment, we will be questioned about how we used these blessings. This understanding provides a powerful motivation for prioritizing self-care.

Intention (Niyyah): 

Transforming Actions into Worship: When we engage in self-care with the intention of strengthening ourselves to better serve Allah, even seemingly mundane acts like eating healthy food or getting enough sleep become acts of worship.

Quranic Verse on Mercy to Oneself

 وَرَحۡمَتِي وَسِعَتۡ كُلَّ شَيۡءٖ
Translation: “My mercy encompasses all things…” (Quran, 7:156)

 4. Self-Care Strategies from Psychology and Islam

1. Physical Self-Care

  • Regular Exercise: Physical activity is essential for mental and physical health. Islam encourages honoring the body’s strength and health as an act of gratitude. Examples include walking, stretching, or yoga.
  • Nutrition and Hydration: Consuming nutritious food and staying hydrated enhances energy for worship and daily tasks. Aim to eat balanced meals and drink sufficient water daily.

  2. Mental Self-Care

  • Mindfulness Practice: A few moments of mindfulness daily calm the mind and foster reflection. In Islam, dhikr (remembrance of Allah) is a grounding mindfulness practice. Begin with short sessions, such as focusing on your breath during dhikr
  • Setting Boundaries: Boundaries protect our time and energy. Islam teaches us to prioritize balance over excess. For instance, allocate specific times for work, family, and personal reflection.

3. Spiritual Self-Care

  • Prayer and Connection with Allah: Daily Salaah brings spiritual peace and renewal, fostering a calm mind and heart. Dedicate extra moments after prayer for dua and introspection.
  • Gratitude Journaling: Reflecting on Allah’s blessings daily reinforces positivity and helps us appreciate life’s gifts. Write three blessings each day and thank Allah for them.

Hadith on Self-Compassion:

· "إِنَّ اللَّهَ رَفِيقٌ يُحِبُّ الرِّفْقَ وَيُعْطِي عَلَى الرِّفْقِ مَا لَا يُعْطِي عَلَى الْعُنْفِ وَمَا لَا يُعْطِي عَلَى مَا سِوَاهُ"

Translation: "Verily, Allah is kind and loves kindness. He grants because of kindness what He does not grant because of harshness and what He does not grant for anything else" (Hadith)

 This hadith can be interpreted to include kindness to oneself.

 The Prophet (PBUH) himself exemplified balanced self-care. He would pray, spend time with his family, rest, and engage in physical activities. He also encouraged seeking medical treatment when needed.

Addressing Misconceptions and Connecting to Fitra

Some may view self-care as a worldly indulgence. However, Islam teaches us that caring for ourselves is essential for fulfilling our purpose as Allah's servants. It is a way of honoring the Fitra (natural disposition) that Allah has created us upon. Neglecting our well-being goes against this natural inclination and hinders our ability to worship and serve effectively.

Hadith on Gratitude

 قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ: "مَنْ لَمْ يَشْكُرِ النَّاسَ لَمْ يَشْكُرِ اللَّهَ"
Translation: The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said, “He who does not thank people does not thank Allah.” (Hadith)

5. Social and Cultural Self-Care

Social Self-Care

  • Nurturing Relationships: Spending time with loved ones fosters a sense of belonging and support. Host family meals or schedule regular check-ins with friends.
  • Community Involvement: Participate in community activities or volunteer opportunities to strengthen your connection with others and your purpose.

Cultural and Social Dimensions

  • Honoring Cultural Practices: Celebrate Islamic traditions and practices that enrich your sense of identity, such as Eid gatherings or attending Friday prayers.

6. Reflection Prompts for Self-Care Practices

To inspire your self-care journey, consider these prompts:

  • “What is one small way you could honor your mind or body today?”
  • “How could you incorporate spiritual self-care into your daily life?”
  • “What relationships need more nurturing in your life?”

Final Word



Self-care is a journey toward balance and well-being—not just for ourselves but for our ability to serve Allah and others with sincerity. By embracing self-care, we fulfill our potential, enrich our relationships, and align our lives with divine guidance. Take one small step today—whether through prayer, mindfulness, or simply drinking water with gratitude—and embark on a path to holistic well-being.

By caring for yourself, you honor the trust Allah has placed in you and unlock the strength to nurture others. Share your self-care practices in the comments or with loved ones—your journey may inspire theirs.

Trained teacher with experience in both secondary and tertiary level technical and vocational subjects,sciences and has experience in teacher education.Holds Bsc Psychology with specialisation in Islamic Psychology.Currently works with Malawi Children Village(MCV) Foundation

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular Posts

Embracing Forgiveness: A Path to Mental Well-being, Growth and Inner Peace

By Ishmael Mailos -
Image
  Embracing Forgiveness: A Path to Mental Well-being, Growth and Inner Peace Introduction Forgiveness can be transformative, yet it’s often one of the hardest things we do. Imagine carrying the weight of betrayal, with every passing day deepening the wound and robbing your peace. As time goes on, that resentment becomes a constant source of pain, holding them back from peace. But what if they could let it go? For many, forgiveness is seen as a sign of weakness, allowing others to hurt us without consequences. Yet, in reality, forgiveness is a powerful tool for emotional, psychological, and spiritual growth. It doesn't excuse the harm done; instead, it frees us from the emotional weight of resentment, allowing us to move forward with clarity and peace. Both psychology and Islam offer powerful insights into forgiveness, showing how it’s not just a moral action but a path to inner peace and mental well-being.  Forgiveness: Psychological and Spiritual Foundations    Mind...
Read more

Conquering Burnout: A Holistic Guide Integrating Psychology and Islamic Principles.

By Ishmael Mailos -
Image
  Conquering  Burnout: A Holistic Guide Integrating Psychology and Islamic Principles. Introduction: Have you ever felt like no matter how much you achieve, you’re still running on empty? That sense of exhaustion that lingers even after a night’s sleep or a weekend break—that’s burnout. Imagine feeling drained, overwhelmed, and unable to cope with the demands of life. It’s more than just being tired; it's a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion that can significantly impact your well-being. Burnout has become a reality for many, but it doesn’t have to define your story.   In this post, we’ll explore burnout from multiple angles: mindset psychology, narrative psychology, and Islamic teachings. We'll break down what causes burnout, what it looks like, and how to overcome it. More than just understanding it, you'll find actionable steps to prevent burnout and harness its lessons for personal growth. What is Burnout? Burnout is more than just feeling tired or st...
Read more

Taqwa: Harnessing God-Consciousness for Mental Health

By Ishmael Mailos -
Image
Taqwa: Harnessing God-Consciousness for Mental Health Introduction: The Power of an Anchored Mind Have you ever felt like your mind is constantly racing—drowning in worries, stress, and endless what-ifs? In a world consumed by anxiety, burnout, and emotional exhaustion, many search for ways to regain peace and inner stability. We turn to self-help strategies, mindfulness apps, and wellness trends, yet an inner void often remains. But what if the key to mental well-being isn’t just in external solutions but in an internal shift—a state of God-consciousness known as Taqwa ? Taqwa is more than a religious concept; it is a transformative mindset that enhances self-awareness, resilience, and emotional balance. Modern psychology increasingly recognizes the profound impact of spirituality on mental health, and Islamic teachings have long emphasized its importance. This article explores how Taqwa can be harnessed as a powerful psychological and spiritual tool for mental well-being. The Meaning...
Read more

The Science and Spiritual Power of Patience: How Sabr Builds Mental Resilience.

By Ishmael Mailos -
Image
  The Science and Spiritual Power of Patience: How Sabr Builds Mental Resilience. Introduction: Adversity is an unavoidable part of life. Challenges often feel overwhelming, whether it's the pressure of meeting deadlines, coping with personal loss, or managing daily stressors. However, hidden within these challenges lies the potential for mental, emotional, and spiritual growth. One of the most powerful tools we can employ during such times is patience, or as it’s called in Islamic teachings, Sabr. Embracing Challenges with a Growth Mindset A "fixed mindset" views intelligence and abilities as static traits, leading to discouragement when faced with challenges. In contrast, a "growth mindset" recognizes these qualities as malleable and capable of development, transforming obstacles into opportunities for growth. Sabr fosters a growth mindset by encouraging us to see setbacks as temporary hurdles rather than permanent roadblocks. The Neuroscience of Patience: Why...
Read more

Adolescence: Turmoil or a Turning Point? (A Psychological and Islamic Perspective).Written by Youssra Muhammad Galal Muhammad Selim.Edited by Ishmael Mailos

By Ishmael Mailos -
Image
  Adolescence: Turmoil or a Turning Point? (A Psychological and Islamic Perspective) Introduction: Do you remember your teenage years? Were they filled with clashing opinions, closed doors, and endless debates with your parents about your future? Did you ever sneak the car keys and imagine yourself in a high-speed movie scene? For many of us, adolescence was a time of self-discovery, friction, and questioning everything—from school rules to religious values. Such exploration often comes with tension. Parents, after years of nurturing their children, may suddenly feel overwhelmed by mood swings, resistance, and unfamiliar behaviors. But must adolescence always be seen as a crisis? Could it instead be a powerful season of transformation? What Is Adolescence, Anyway? Adolescence is the transformative stage between childhood and adulthood. It has been described as “the threshold to adulthood” (Martin et al., 2013), spanning the onset of puberty to the assumption of adult roles. Puberty...
Read more