Islam places a significant emphasis on nature and its relationship with humanity. God in the Quran describes the eternal abode for the believers Jannaat (gardens), as places of exquisite and unimaginable beauty. Gardens where believers experience peace and joy in their luxurious environment and services they’ve earned through righteous deeds in their time on Earth.
“He will forgive your sins, and admit you into Gardens under which rivers flow, and ˹house you in˺ splendid homes in the Gardens of Eternity. That is the ultimate triumph.”
(Surah As-Saf 61:12)
There is much benefit to be offered by increasing our attention to and relationship with the nature.
Spiritual Benefits
1. Balance
Islam promotes a balanced lifestyle that includes physical activity and exposure to natural environments. Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, encouraged outdoor activities such as walking in gardens, visiting the countryside, and enjoying natural scenery. These activities provide opportunities for exercise, relaxation, and stress relief which are beneficial for mental health. He had a special fondness for gardens (Jannat), enjoying their tranquility and beauty.
2. Reflection and Contemplation
God invites humanity to reflect upon the signs of Allah in nature (Ayat Allah), to admire the beauty and complexity of nature as a means for spiritual contemplation and deepening of one's faith. Spending time in green spaces allows Muslims to disconnect from worldly distractions and reconnect with Allah's creation, fostering mental peace and tranquility. The Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, often retreated to caves and mountains around Makkah for contemplation and prayer. These natural settings provided him with solitude and the opportunity to reflect deeply on spiritual matters.
Physical Benefits
Being in nature is an intimate part of our fitra (predisposition instilled by God). Nature has a profound impact on mental and physical health in several positive ways:
1. Reduced Stress and Improved Mood
Being in nature, whether it's a park, forest, or by the sea, has been shown to lower cortisol levels and reduce stress. The peacefulness and tranquility of natural environments can promote relaxation, calm, elevate mood, and decrease feelings of anxiety and depression.
2. Enhanced Cognitive and Physical Function
Spending time in nature has been found to enhance cognitive function, including attention, memory, and creativity. It provides a mental break from the demands of everyday life and allows the mind to rest and rejuvenate. Many activities in natural settings involve physical exercise, such as walking, hiking, or swimming. Regular exercise is known to boost mood and improve overall mental health.
3. Social Interaction
Natural settings often encourage social interaction, whether it's walking with friends, participating in outdoor sports, or joining nature groups. Socializing is crucial for mental health and well-being.
4. Sunlight and Vitamin D
Exposure to natural sunlight helps regulate the body's internal clock and can improve mood. Sunlight also stimulates the production of Vitamin D, which is important for overall health.
In conclusion, integrating nature into daily life through activities like walking in a park, gardening, or simply spending time outdoors can have significant positive effects on mental health. This relationship between nature and mental health underscores the importance of green spaces and natural environments in promoting psychological well-being.
Our intimate link to nature is emphasized numerous times in the Quran through the description of Jannaat as an ultimate prize for mankind. The peace we feel when looking at the snow-covered mountains, flower-laden bushes, hanging fruit trees, and the green rolling hills is a shared experience of humanity. Greenery and natural environments are viewed as sources of blessings and reminders of Allah's greatness, providing Muslims with opportunities to rejuvenate their minds and souls, promoting positive emotions and mental well-being.
So why not turn toward nature to scoop up the joy and fill our eyes with the beautiful colors.
End Notes
Berman, M. G., Jonides, J., & Kaplan, S. (2008). The Cognitive Benefits of Interacting With Nature. Psychological Science, 19(12), 1207-1212.
Tayaabah Qazi has a master’s degree in Educational Leadership, an AdminI/II Certification from the State of Maryland Education Department, and a Secondary Teaching Certification in Chemistry as well as a CPP certificate. She has served in the education field as a teacher and an administrator of schools. Recently, she served at Community College of Baltimore County as a Coordinator of Adult Basic Education program. Currently, Tayaabah is the Program Manager at the Office of Workforce Development at Maryland Department of Labor. She has been a long-time resident of Maryland for 17 years, with her family, but hails from Southern California. She is also a staunch believer of the 4 Cs: Compassion. Commitment. Conversation. Cultivation.
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