Health and Wellness in Islam

Being active and to exercise is not only acceptable in Islam but also recommended. Part of the instructions given by the Prophet and the Imams (A.S) about upbringing of children is the issue of physical exercise. Swimming, for example, has been greatly encouraged in our religious literature.
It is a way of life which encompasses all aspects of human life: spiritual as well as physical, personal as well as communal, physical health as well as material wealth, and religious matters as well as political issues. In Islam, our body and health are considered as important gifts of Almighty Allah. Imam Ali (A.S) said: “Health is the best of blessings.” In another narration, he says, “One of the blessings [of God] is the abundance of wealth; however, better than abundance of wealth is the health of the body.” Imam Sadiq (A.S) said, “A believer who is physically strong is better than a weak believer.” It is in this sense that our body is considered to be the trust given to us by Allah. And we have to safeguard and protect this trust.

Sleeping, Resting, and Avoiding Stress
Almighty Allah has appointed the night as the time for resting and the day as the time for working. “He is the One who made for you the night so that you may rest in it, and the day with light; most surely in these are signs for the people who hear.” (10:67) so naturally, sleeping is very important.
Avoiding stress: slow down; look at the present and enjoy it before you lose it. Give time for your family. Having a good family life will help you in dealing with stress. And, finally, be in touch with Allah, the Prophet, and Imams; read the Qur’an and the Du’as. This will greatly help in dealing with stress. “Verily, in the remembrance of Allah, the hearts are at ease.” (13:28). There are special supplications in Sahifa Sajjadia which can be quite helpful. And unlike stress counselors or psychiatrists, you don’t need to schedule an appointment or pay any fees – Allah is always available to listen to you free of charge!