The days of Ramadan were beautiful; so were the days of Eid. We enjoyed the holy month of Ramadan and the blessed days of Eid; wonderful times indeed, times that have formed fond and lasting memories in'shaaAllah, times that will inspire us always.

These memories will assist us whenever we are feeling down. Good memories always make us feel better. Nothing is more uplifting than looking through the family album, remembering and reminiscing. I'm sure you'll agree?

Despite all the wonderful blessings we have, we still sometimes feel doubtful and that allows anxiety to creep in. I know this happens to me and I have to snap myself out of it. I don't know exactly why these feelings creep upon me but they do. I guess it's only human nature.

Alhamdulillah, I know that because of my Islamic beliefs and perspectives on handling these anxious and non productive feelings, I always overcome the wretchedness of anxiety and depression. Alhamdulillah.

There is a powerful Hadith related to handling stress and anxiety that our beloved Prophet (pbuh) relayed to us:

“How wonderful is the affair of the believer, for his affairs are all good, and this applies to no one but the believer. If something good happens to him, he is grateful, and that is good for him. If something bad happens to him, he bears it with patience, and that is good for him.” (Sahih Muslim, 2999)

This Hadith highlights the Islamic perspective of maintaining gratitude in times of ease and patience in times of difficulty, which helps in managing stress and anxiety with faith and trust in Allah.

Stress and anxiety are universal human experiences. In today’s fast-paced world, the pressures of daily life can feel overwhelming, leading to mental and emotional struggles. Islam, as a complete way of life, provides guidance on managing stress and anxiety through faith, trust in Allah, and practical strategies embedded in religious teachings.

One of the core principles in Islam for managing stress is Tawakkul, or complete reliance on Allah. When believers place their trust in Allah, they find comfort in knowing that He controls all affairs. The Koran (65:3) states: “And whosoever puts his trust in Allah, then He will suffice him.”

Indeed, the believer says: “Allah is enough for me.” The phrase is derived from Koran 9:129, which states: “If they turn away, then say, ‘Allah is sufficient for me. There is no god but He. In Him I put my trust. And He is the Lord of the Mighty Throne.”

By practising Tawakkul, Muslims understand that difficulties are temporary and that Allah’s wisdom is beyond human comprehension. This belief helps alleviate worry, as one learns to submit their concerns to the divine plan, rather than being consumed by them.

Salah (prayer) is a powerful tool in coping with anxiety. The five daily prayers serve as moments of spiritual reflection and connection with Allah. Prophet Muhammad would turn to prayer during times of distress, reinforcing its role as a source of peace. Prayer helps me tremendously, in fact, prayer is said to be the weapon of the believer! Subhanallah.

Additionally, making dua (supplication) allows a person to verbalise their worries and seek divine intervention. Prophet Muhammad taught several supplications for anxiety, such as:

“O Allah, I seek refuge in You from anxiety and grief, from weakness and laziness, from miserliness and cowardice, from being overwhelmed by debt and the oppression of men.” (Bukhari)

Regular Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) also plays a crucial role in mental wellbeing. As the Koran states, “Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.” (13:28)

Reciting SubhanAllah (Glory be to Allah), Alhamdulillah (Praise be to Allah), and Allahu akbar (Allah is the Greatest) brings a sense of tranquillity and shifts focus from worldly concerns to spiritual contentment.

Islam teaches that trials and hardships are tests from Allah to strengthen a believer’s faith. The Koran (2:155) reassures us: “And we will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give glad tidings to the patient.”

Developing Sabr (patience) helps a person endure difficulties with resilience. Rather than perceiving hardship as a punishment, Muslims are encouraged to see it as an opportunity for spiritual growth and increased reward in the Hereafter.

Islam promotes a mindset of gratitude, which counteracts stress. Focusing on blessings, rather than challenges, cultivates a sense of contentment.

The Koran (14:7) states: “If you are grateful, I will certainly give you more.”

By acknowledging Allah’s countless blessings, individuals shift their mindset away from stress-inducing negativity to an attitude of appreciation.

Alhamdulilah that Islam encourages a holistic approach to wellbeing. A balanced diet, adequate sleep, and exercise are all essential for maintaining mental health. The Prophet advised moderation in all aspects of life, reinforcing that neglecting physical health can contribute to stress.

So we can see without a doubt that Islam provides a comprehensive approach to handling stress and anxiety through faith, trust in Allah, prayer, patience, and gratitude.

By incorporating these principles, a believer can navigate life’s challenges with inner peace and resilience, knowing that Allah’s mercy encompasses all hardships. I know and can testify with a surety to that. Subhanallah!

Bermuda continue to pray for those experiencing war, oppression and genocide. Our world right now is in a state of unrest; the threat of peace becoming extinct looms over us like a dark cloud. Remember prayer is our weapon against unrest.

Bermuda, stay safe and as always, as salaam alaikum (peace be unto you).

• Linda Walia Ming is a member of the Bermuda Hijab Dawah Team, a group of Muslim women who reside in Bermuda and have a goal of educating the community about the religion of Islam