Stress: A Silent Enemy in islam

Stress is one of the greatest enemies of modern women. It sneaks into our lives, often without us realizing it, and manifests through physical and emotional symptoms: chronic fatigue, insomnia, irritability, and even more serious illnesses like PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), thyroid disorders, diabetes, alopecia (hair loss), autoimmune diseases, and many others.

Allah reminds us in the Quran:أَلَا بِذِكْرِ اللَّهِ تَطْمَئِنُّ الْقُلُوبُ"Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah, hearts are assured." (Surah Ar-Ra’d, verse 28).

This verse shows us that the solution to our stress does not lie in medications, distractions, or escapism, but in our connection with Allah. Here are some tips to combat stress and regain serenity:

1. Practice Dhikr: The Remembrance That Soothes

Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) is a powerful weapon against stress. Repeating phrases like "SubhanAllah" (Glory be to Allah), "Alhamdulillah" (Praise be to Allah), or "La ilaha illa Allah" (There is no deity but Allah) calms the heart and refocuses the mind.

The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "People will not sit in an assembly in which they remember Allah without the angels surrounding them, mercy covering them, and Allah mentioning them to those near Him." (Muslim).

Take a few minutes each day to isolate yourself, close your eyes, and invoke Allah. You will feel an inner peace settle in.

2. Drawing or Painting: Letting Go Through Creativity

Drawing and painting are therapeutic activities that help release pent-up emotions. When we draw, our mind focuses on the present moment, and stress naturally dissipates.

Art therapy is widely recognized for its benefits on mental health. Add a spiritual dimension by listening to the Quran or practicing dhikr while drawing, and you will transform this activity into an act of worship.

3. Spending Time in Nature: A Divine Remedy

Allah created nature as a reminder of His greatness and a source of healing. A walk in a park, garden, or even by the sea can work wonders to calm the mind.

The Prophet (ﷺ) loved to retreat into nature to meditate and draw closer to Allah. Let us follow his example by taking the time to contemplate the beauty of creation: trees, flowers, the sky… All of this reminds us of Allah’s power and mercy.

Allah says:وَهُوَ الَّذِي أَنزَلَ مِنَ السَّمَاءِ مَاءً فَأَخْرَجْنَا بِهِ نَبَاتَ كُلِّ شَيْءٍ"And it is He who sends down rain from the sky, and We produce thereby the growth of all things." (Surah Al-An’am, verse 99).

4. Limiting Social Media: Preserving Inner Peace

Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram can be a source of stress and unhealthy comparison. Perfect images, idealized lives, and negative comments can harm our self-esteem and increase our anxiety.

Set limits on your social media use. For example, reserve screen-free moments, especially before sleeping, to allow your mind to rest.

The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "Take advantage of your time, for it will never return."

Let us use our time for activities that nourish our soul and bring us closer to Allah, rather than losing ourselves in fleeting distractions.

5. Taking Care of Your Body: A Responsibility Toward Allah

Our body is an amanah (a trust) that Allah has entrusted to us. Chronic stress can weaken our immune system and cause illnesses. Take care of your health by:

1. Eating healthily:

Allah says: "Eat and drink, but do not waste. Indeed, He does not like the wasteful." (Surah Al-A’raf, verse 31).

1. Exercising: A daily walk or yoga can help relieve stress.

2. Sleeping enough: Sleep is a blessing from Allah. Do not neglect it.

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6. Remembering That Everything Is in Allah’s Hands

Finally, let us remember that everything that happens to us is already written by Allah. Stress often arises when we try to control everything, forgetting that Allah is the Master of all things.

Allah says:وَمَن يَتَّقِ اللَّهَ يَجْعَل لَّهُ مَخْرَجًا وَيَرْزُقْهُ مِنْ حَيْثُ لَا يَحْتَسِبُ"And whoever fears Allah, He will make for him a way out and provide for him from where he does not expect." (Surah At-Talaq, verses 2-3).

Let us trust in Allah, place our reliance in Him, and we will see our stress dissipate.

Conclusion: Your Health Is a Gift from Allah

My dear sisters, take care of yourselves. Your physical, mental, and spiritual health is a precious gift that Allah has given you. Fight stress by drawing closer to Him, taking care of your body, and surrounding yourself with what soothes you.

Remember: you are not alone. Allah is with you, and He is the Most Merciful. So, calm down, breathe, and let Allah’s peace fill your heart.