After learning about the nature of stress, the question arises: what solutions exist for managing it? Teachings rooted in human nature, confirmed by centuries of human experience, offer practical and effective solutions. The first and perhaps most fundamental of these is supplication and prayer. Prayer creates a living, dynamic connection with an infinitely kind and powerful source. Ancient texts state: “Call upon Me, I will respond to you” [6]. Prayer helps reduce stress in several ways: emotional release (expressing fears and worries in a safe space), shifting focus (directing attention from problems to a higher power), and creating hope (reminding that there is always a way) [7]. Traditions state: “Prayer is the weapon of the believer, the pillar of religion, and the light of the heavens and the earth” [8].
The second strategy is meditation and reflection. Meditation means paying attention to what is happening now, inside and outside, without judgment and with full awareness. This practice connects a person to the source of existence and the purpose of creation, creating deeper peace. The highest level of meditation is awareness that a wise observer is aware of our actions and thoughts [9]. As stated in wisdom texts: “Reflection invites a person to goodness and acting upon it” [10].
The third strategy is exercise and physical activity. Traditions recommend teaching children swimming, archery, and horse riding [11]. Exercise reduces stress by releasing negative energy, releasing happiness hormones, and improving sleep. The fourth strategy is connecting with nature and reflecting upon it. Looking at the sky, earth, mountains, and plants has always been recommended [12]. Being in nature lowers stress hormone levels and creates a sense of calm. Reflecting on nature reminds a person of the infinite power of the source of existence and makes problems seem smaller.
To benefit from these strategies, set aside time each day for prayer, walk in nature, include exercise in your regular schedule, and spend moments in silence and reflection. These strategies, though simple, have a remarkable effect on reducing stress and increasing peace when done regularly.
References
[6] The Holy Quran, Surah Ghafir, Verse 60.
[7] Hosseini, Fatemeh Sadat. Stress Management. Tehran: Arg Publications, 2018, p. 134.
[8] Majlesi, Mohammad Baqer. Bihar al-Anwar. Vol. 90, Tehran: Dar al-Kutub al-Islamiyyah, 2021, p. 247.
[9] Nouri, Hassan. Islamic Meditation. Journal of Mystical Studies, No. 24, 2019, p. 67.
[10] Nahj al-Balaghah, Wisdom 318.
[11] Koleini, Mohammad ibn Ya’qub. Usul al-Kafi. Vol. 5, Tehran: Dar al-Kutub al-Islamiyyah, 2008, p. 56.
[12] The Holy Quran, Surah Al-Imran, Verse 190.
