Thursday, July 20, 2006
Stress is a normal part of one’s life. However, if not remedied or managed, stress can lead to serious health problems. Some symptoms of stress include fatigue, exhaustion, depression, burnout and breakdown. Follow these steps to live insha'Allah a stress-free life.
1. Have a Strong Iman.
It is important to understand and believe that everything is from Allah, and that everything occurs for a reason. A Muslim is one who accepts everything that happens to them as good. If something good happens to her, she says Alhamdulillah. If something bad happens to her, she says Alhamdulillah.
2. Exercise
Exercising regularly (2-3 times a week), and building up a sweat is an excellent and healthy way of relieving stress. It is also recommended for Muslims in general to be in the best of shape, for preparations of hardships, tribulations, or Jihad.
3. Eat Healthy
Avoiding the potato chips and cookies, and eating healthy meals not only makes one feel better, but makes one look better too. Junk foods can cause an overall sluggish and lazy person. Meanwhile, those who consume healthy meals feel more energized and productive.
4. Understand the Reality of this World
When afflicted with distress, remember that this life is only like a drop of water on the finger as opposed to the vast ocean of water of the hereafter. The tests and trials of this small world are tests of our patience and faith in Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala). Jannah is our goal, so let’s work hard to achieve that rewarding goal.
5. Take Time Out
When on the verge of burnout, breakdown, or depression, take a step back and relax for a while. Sometimes it is helpful to relieve oneself from a few responsibilities while temporarily taking some extra time to strengthen one’s relationship with Allah, and reorganizing one’s time. However, although this may be beneficial on occasion, it is not good to make a habit of taking too many breaks. It is difficult to come back to a responsibility after being on a ‘mental vacation’. Also, we must be careful that we are not using taking time out as an excuse to avoid a problem or a way to run away from it. We should still come back to the task at hand, not just give up.
6. Be Positive!
Verily with every hardship there is Relief. Remember that this is a temporary phase, and it will end in time, bi'ithnillah (with the permission of Allah). The bitterness of today will end, and insha'Allah tomorrow will definately be better. Have hope in Allah Ta'ala, and be positive.
If you begin to have negative, stress building thoughts, such as; "I'll never get this project in on time.", then turn it around, break it down, to begin to think more postively, such as; "If I stay focused and take it one step at a time, I'll make steady progress."
Ibn Abbas (radiAllahu anhu) reported that; I was (once) behind the Prophet when he said to me:
'O son! I shall inform of a few things: Remember Allah, and He will protect you. Remember Allah, and you will find Him close to you. When you have to ask for something, ask of Allah Most High. When you require aid, seek His Aid. Believe firmly that if all the creation desires to benefit you in anything, they can never benefit you, but, that which Allah has decreed for you. If they all unite to harm you, they will not be able to harm you in anything, but that which Allah has decreed for you'
[at-Tirmidhi]
5:43 PM
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