Spirituality, as one of the fundamental dimensions of human existence, has a unique capacity to reduce stress and anxiety. Acts rooted in deep beliefs not only have devotional aspects but also, from a psychological perspective, have profound effects on mental health and stress reduction. One of the most important of these acts is prayer (salat). Ancient texts state: “Seek help through patience and prayer” [13]. Prayer reduces stress by disconnecting from daily concerns, through rhythmic movements, standing before the source of existence, and creating order and repetition. The feeling of standing before a kind and powerful source creates deep psychological security [14]. Traditions relate that one of the great figures would change colour during prayer and say: “The time for prayer has come, the time of the trust that the heavens and the earth refused to bear” [15].
The second effective act is fasting. Besides its devotional aspect, fasting is an exercise in self-control and emotion management. The fasting person learns to master their desires and avoid impulsive reactions. The psychological effects of fasting include increased self-control (abstaining from food and drink for long hours strengthens self-control [16]), spiritual soothing, empathy with others, and physical and psychological purification. Ancient texts state: “Fasting has been prescribed for you, so that you may become righteous” [17].
The third act is pilgrimage to sacred sites. Pilgrimage combines travel, prayer, connection with holy figures, and collective spiritual experience. Its psychological effects include leaving the daily environment, creating hope (connection with holy figures revives hope [18]), collective experience, and spiritual atmosphere. In addition, reciting sacred texts and prescribed prayers has a profound effect on reducing stress. Ancient texts state: “We have sent down in the Quran that which is a healing and a mercy for the believers” [19]. Research has shown that reciting these texts, by influencing brain waves, creates a deep state of calm and reduces stress hormone levels [20].
To benefit from spirituality’s effects, pray with presence of heart, use the opportunity of fasting to practice self‑control, have a pilgrimage plan (even virtually), and daily reflect on sacred texts to invite peace into your heart. Spirituality is a basic human need; whoever connects with the source of existence is never truly alone, and this feeling is the strongest shield against stress.
References
[13] The Holy Quran, Surah Al-Baqarah, Verse 153.
[14] Pournaimi, Saeed. The Effect of Prayer on Stress Reduction. Quarterly Journal of Psychology of Religion, No. 22, 2018, p. 34.
[15] Koleini, Mohammad ibn Ya’qub. Usul al-Kafi. Vol. 3, Tehran: Dar al-Kutub al-Islamiyyah, 2008, p. 264.
[16] Tajeri, Mohammad Reza. Fasting and Mental Health. Tehran: Soroush Publications, 2017, p. 89.
[17] The Holy Quran, Surah Al-Baqarah, Verse 183.
[18] Mazaheri, Alireza. The Effect of Pilgrimage on Stress Reduction. Quarterly Journal of Spiritual Health, No. 8, 2019, p. 56.
[19] The Holy Quran, Surah Al-Isra, Verse 82.
[20] Najafi, Mahmoud. The Effect of Quran Recitation on Stress Reduction. Journal of Islamic Psychology, No. 12, 2018, p. 78.
