Author: admin

  • A Meeting Which Is Worth All The Pain

    A Meeting Which Is Worth All The Pain

    I wanted to write something personal. Something that will not be cliched and something that will touch the heart that reads this. Truth be told, I can’t as Allah alone is in control and determines all things as He is All-Powerful. What I can say is this, for those brothers and sisters who read this,…

  • Find Peace Within Your Struggle

    Find Peace Within Your Struggle

    For all those who are facing a struggle within themselves; mentally, physically or most importantly spiritually. May Allah ease your pain and suffering and may Allah make it a means of expiation for you!  It’s a constant battle and this is your test – in every essence of the word.It’s a test every second you…

  • It Is OK Not To Feel OK

    It Is OK Not To Feel OK

    Dear me, I am feeling constantly on edge, anxious and uncontrollable tears run down my cheeks. It is ok. This only makes me human. I am human enough to feel disappointed, shattered and hopeless. It is ok. As human limitations are unknown. Allah is the knower of tomorrow and if only I was shown the…

  • The Bright Day After Every Dark Night

    The Bright Day After Every Dark Night

    Striking the right balance in aspects of my life plays a pivotal role in maintaining a healthy mind and body. Life stressors can manifest in various forms, leading to short-term and long-term ill-health. Three key things that I have found that have worked well for me are: 1) Fasting. The health benefits of fasting, in…

  • Our Love And Dependence On God

    Our Love And Dependence On God

    I have worked in the humanitarian field for the last 30 years both as a volunteer and a staff member. Currently at Islamic Relief where I work, we’re conducting some research around the world in disaster and conflict settings into how Muslims internalise their faith in recovering from trauma and hardship.  It’s fascinating for me…

  • Value And Appreciate Yourself

    Value And Appreciate Yourself

    “Me” time is very important for me. Just having an hour to myself to reflect and relax with a good cup of coffee or tea is the perfect solution after a busy day. I am a Mum, wife and a National HR Manager. I am also studying my Masters degree, so life can be pretty…

  • Keeping Things In Perspective

    Keeping Things In Perspective

    Uncertainty lies at the heart of our human condition. Our relationship with uncertainty is also at the heart of our most human distress – anxiety. When we’re unable to tolerate the uncertainties of life, whatever they are – will Allah accept my deeds, will I succeed in this world, will I be loved/rejected – the…

  • A Letter From My Brain

    A Letter From My Brain

    Dear You, We both know that your mental health and well-being is important. Here are some of the things that we do both do to maintain a healthy mindset: – Pray and reflect – Connect with family and friends who remind me of my values – Go to the gym and be active – Engage…

  • One Step At A Time

    One Step At A Time

    A couple of years ago, I began to realise that the resilience I once had towards stressful situations in life began to turn into high levels of anxiety, which would often result in months of endless insomnia. Tired of feeling lethargic for days on end, the first step to changing and maintaining my health and…

  • How I Carve Time Out For Myself

    How I Carve Time Out For Myself

    With four children I know things can get on top of me sometimes so I ensure I have a self-care strategy I can use. I make time to read because I find reading deeply relaxing. I also draw great strength from reading the Tafseer of the Quran. I can totally lose myself in my reading…

  • Energy – My Life Source

    Energy – My Life Source

    I’ve been a volunteer pretty much my whole life.  I remember being quite young, maybe seven, when my mother began taking me with her to all sorts of events where she would be doing community work in our city in Pakistan.  She did this with me over a number of years and my father was…

  • Keep A Routine

    Keep A Routine

    I found I was trying to do too much in one day and in the process this was weighing me down. I’ve dramatically slowed down by getting into a morning and night routine. I give myself up to 30 minutes for “me” time, beginning and at then of my day. The 30 minutes in the…

  • Self-Care Is Not Selfish

    Self-Care Is Not Selfish

    I think the most important thing that I wish to relay to people who may struggle and feel like their lives are one big emotional roller-coaster (as we all do at times) is that it is okay to not be okay. We’re only human, and our flaws are truly what make us perfect. Life can…

  • Just Breathe

    Just Breathe

    Yes sure… Exercise self care. Look after yourself and do what gives you happiness, joy and peace. Give yourself compassion and TLC as alien as it may seem. This could be meditation or praying, having a spa treatment, going for a walk, talking to a friend, spending time with family or even just on your…

  • Finding Time To Do You

    Finding Time To Do You

    Life is full of unexpected moments, with ups and downs. We may come to points in our lives where we question why we have come this particular place or why events have occurred in our lives. It is at times like this, when we feel life is not going in the direction in which we…

  • Loving Yourself As A Whole

    Loving Yourself As A Whole

    It took me 36  years to finally know what it truly means to take care of yourself and that it’s not being selfish. And because of that I suffered almost all my life. Caring for yourself includes loving yourself as a whole. As human beings none of us is perfect. We all have flaws and…

  • Eat. Pray. Sleep.

    Eat. Pray. Sleep.

    Eat healthy most of the time. (cheat days are compulsory lol) Do not miss your obligatory prayers. Read them with contemplation and you’ll feel rejuvenated. Sleep well.

  • Selflessly Putting Myself First

    Selflessly Putting Myself First

    Asalamualaykum,  How are you ?  No really how are YOU? WHO are you?  Do you realise that you’re a complex human being with complex needs? Someone who needs looking after just as much as you need to look after the little people in your life ?  Well, well done you! Yes you, mother, panelist, therapist,…

  • Finding That Connection

    Finding That Connection

    I’ve always been a person who values connectedness to people around me. It’s something I’ve been grateful to have, especially because I like to learn from the people I look upto. However this year I felt like that connection was lacking especially due to other priorities, and it left me feeling burdened and uninspired.  The…

  • The Seasons Of My Life

    The Seasons Of My Life

    I use so many different ways in looking after myself, it all depends on the season of my life. Whether it be a season of heartache, family problems, feeling lost or experiencing death, it all takes a toll and sometimes we feel alone, abandoned and unloved. In all the situations in my life, from growing…

  • A Promise To Myself

    A Promise To Myself

    I know a lot is happening right now. You are so busy with some many commitments whether that is with work, university or even volunteering. I think it is important sometimes for you to think about your own wellbeing. I know you feel as though you are missing out if you don’t something at that…

  • Building Resilience After A Huge Loss

    Building Resilience After A Huge Loss

    I think it is safe to say that 2018 has been the most difficult and painful period of my life till date. My mother lost her battle to an aggressive cancer, I moved into a new environment and felt the pain of leaving behind my loved ones and many other challenges. Initially it seemed impossibly…

  • When Catastrophe Strikes

    When Catastrophe Strikes

    At times of stress and worry, I sit down and take a deep breath. I think rationally about the situation and make a plan. Plan the next steps you are going to take, short term and long term. Reassure yourself. I’ll cuddle my cats, scroll through memes, put on a face mask or read Quran.…

  • Making Life Happy And Worthwhile

    Making Life Happy And Worthwhile

    My typical daily routine is to come home freshen up and get into my comfy pj. That in itself takes off a load for me. Then must brush the hair perfume myself making me feel good physically. Then must sit with a cup of tea, my fav biscuits, tv on and unwind. Don’t necessary watch…

  • Keeping Myself Sane

    Keeping Myself Sane

    Whenever my heart feels heavy or restless I know it means I’m not looking after myself, that I’m missing something. I usually start with keeping up with regular prayers, listening to more Islamic education than music. I need to be learning something in those long journeys to work.  This eases a huge part of me…

  • What Self Care Means To Me

    What Self Care Means To Me

    Looking after my self in other words self-care can mean different things to different people. I will talk about what it means for me and what I learnt about looking after yourself over the years.  Firstly, having born and brought up in a collective culture I have noticed one crucial thing that was missing was…

  • When Faced With Stress And Depression

    When Faced With Stress And Depression

    I get more involved in family and community events.  I will wake up early in the morning and get ready and wear the brightest colour lips stick get involved with charity work.  I will also go to other girls night events to cheer myself up with close friends. Call friends and have a long long…

  • Who Is He?

    Who Is He?

    What do I do to look after myself? Not a question I’ve seriously ever asked myself. I instinctively think of my physical well-being, my not-so-frequent visits to the gym, the extra exercise, less sugar.. and the list goes on. Perhaps that covers one aspect of looking after myself. If however, as a believer, I consider…

  • Wife + Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu = Happiness

    Wife + Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu = Happiness

    “Talk to all people about happiness, health, and prosperity.” – Carlos Gracie Dr So how do I take care of myself? Although there are a few things I do, two things immediately strike to mind. 1 – My wife helps me to take care of myself. It can be difficult at times to know when…

  • The Day I Found God

    The Day I Found God

    How do I look after myself? Honestly, I don’t know if I do, or even if I do, is it proactively supporting my well-being. Regardless, looking after myself was and is a journey in figuring out who I am and what my needs are, and in turn, this journey led me to the day that…

  • Islam. Family. Friends.

    Islam. Family. Friends.

    Alhamdulillah the number one way I genuinely look after myself is knowing that Allah has the best plans in place for me and any wrong is my defects and all good is from him. I appreciate my 5 daily prayers as the most precious minutes of my day. In this time I take a breather…

  • Home Is Where The Heart Is

    Home Is Where The Heart Is

    I like spending time with my wife and son, I get satisfaction and a peace of mind. I take care of myself by taking long walks and hot showers.  I love reading about the current affairs it helps me to relax.

  • Verily, By Time

    Verily, By Time

    The best investment in looking after myself is taking the time to know how I react when times are becoming difficult, stressful or overwhelming.. the warning signs start small.., becoming less motivated, feeling more tired, less interest in socialising..  my biggest learning curve has been the realisation to allow my soul to know that it’s…

  • Talk About Your Problems

    Talk About Your Problems

    At times where things get stressful and you face setback after setback; life starts to look bleak. It’s so pivotal that at times like this you talk about what’s on your mind i.e. what’s stressing you. Literally just venting out. What you’ll realise is you have a huge burden lifted off your shoulder. Now the…

  • Have Faith

    Have Faith

    I find myself at times getting extremely stressed with so much going on in my work and personal life. I believe I may not have full control over what happens in my life but I have control over how I react to those things and how I manage that is what is important.   So I set…

  • Optimism: A Glimmer Of Light In The Dark

    Optimism: A Glimmer Of Light In The Dark

    I find happiness in Alhamdulillah. It brings a feeling of gratitude that has the power to instantly change your mood. Whenever I feel low about things not happening the way I want, I try to focus on the good things that I already have going in my life, and say Alhamdulillah, which makes it easier…

  • A Year Of Sadness

    A Year Of Sadness

    My world changed when my grandad returned to The Divine Allah rest his soul and grant him the highest place in paradise, ameen. Everyday was hard. Everything reminded me of him. I lost myself. It was hard because I never pictured life without him. You see, my grandad was there: at every problem, he had…

  • There’s Me As Well

    There’s Me As Well

    As a person who usually puts others before herself, I often find it difficult to remember to put myself first. What usually helps is surrounding myself with my people, doing a few of my favourite things with them.  My people are my brothers and sisters, my personal support network made up of 5 blessings disguised…

  • Live Beautifully

    Live Beautifully

    Live beautifully and enjoy the little things. I look after myself by getting enough sleep, exercise when I can and try to eat healthy food! I also like to have ‘me time’ pamper myself with beauty therapy. I take great care on my appearance for me, myself and I.  I keep away from fake friends,…

  • Nothing Will Work Unless You Do

    Nothing Will Work Unless You Do

    Take the first step. Wake up every day believing that this is a new chance to get it right, and act accordingly. Set the scene for new positive habits every day. Your body won’t function the way it should unless you put in the work to make yourself feel better. You will test your blood…

  • Being Human

    Being Human

    We tend to go through ups and downs, daily struggles or have sudden setbacks in our lives. These moments can make you or break you, if you don’t manage yourself. I’ve been through my fair share of upsets and stresses and the way I’ve dealt with it is by simply taking time out of the…

  • My Self Care Routine

    My Self Care Routine

    Self care is vital and an essential part of helping you to keep focused on your goals and aspirations and to be able to achieve them.  In order to keep myself on track and the best I can, I try to follow this routine:  Make the bed in the morning. This gives me a sense…

  • Lighten Up And Enjoy Life

    Lighten Up And Enjoy Life

    Lighten up, just enjoy life, smile more, laugh more, and don’t get so worked up about things. As someone whose happiness mostly relies on the happiness of others, I love to help those who may need help and are afraid to ask. It could be by just listening to a friend talk about their problems…

  • Doing And Believing

    Doing And Believing

    I ensure I look after myself by doing and believing in the following: Do your day to day activities. Go gym, live a healthy lifestyle, stay away from unhealthy foods (easily done). Surround yourself with family and friends who will help you with your stress and worries. Trust in Allah, know that whatever you are…

  • What I Have Learnt

    What I Have Learnt

    I have started being more reflective now and instead of jumping to everything I have learnt how to say no. I have burnt myself out in the last couple of years and now I have learnt how to slow down even if it means given up the things I like doing.  I have started pilates…

  • Dear Me

    Dear Me

    Dear Me, during 2019 don’t forget to eat healthily, take breaks and try to not bottle things up! If you do ever feel stressed, always remember you can de-stress by sewing, knitting or going on a walk!

  • Be Nice To Yourself

    Be Nice To Yourself

    Always remember that it’s ok to feel like you’re not ok. You’re only human. So take a break, have some tea, sit in silence or with something soothing on, light a candle, don’t talk, and relax. Really and truly relax. Take a breather then come back and do it again.

  • Dear Self

    Dear Self

    Remember your only able to control your own actions and thoughts. Don’t forget yourself when looking after others always. For you being well will mean others will always be well too. So take the time to connect to your Creator for this is where you are guaranteed unconditional love and reward and recognition for all…

  • Balancing The Two

    Balancing The Two

    Both physical and mental health has always been so important to me. It’s not just the physical we have to look after, but our mindset, values and the way we perceive ourselves. It took me a lot of self-reflection before I found a way I could cater to both of those at the same time;…

  • My Act Of Self Care

    My Act Of Self Care

    When my mind is feeling cluttered or I feel overwhelmed with things going on in my life to help destress, I watch makeup tutorials or celebrity gossip on YouTube. Sometimes I’ll just play them in the background while I like lie on my bed other times I actively watch the videos. There’s just something about…

  • Am I Invisible

    Am I Invisible

    Do I know my boundaries. Before I let anybody cross them. Do I introduce myself to me. Before anybody knows me. Do I know what happiness is. Before sadness envelops me. Myself. I need to know. Who am I – the answer will endeavour me to grow. To reach new horizons gain heights untold. Was…

  • Self Care Is The Best Care

    Self Care Is The Best Care

    When I am stressed or overwhelmed, it could be easy to let myself down when in reality it is probably one of the worst things I can do. To eliminate that thought, the first way I look after myself is to be my own motivator and not my own critic. That way, it is easier…

  • A Holistic Sense Of Yourself

    A Holistic Sense Of Yourself

    I use my deen and my relationship with God to be constantly in dialogue with God, not just by the formal rituals but also the voluntary acts such as dhikr (remembrance). Health is really important to me both physical and spiritual. I also make sure to keep in good company and in my field, it…

  • Growing In Happiness

    Growing In Happiness

    I look after myself by spending time with like minded, positive, compassionate and genuine people who really care about my well being. To me looking after myself is about health, wealth and time to do the things that make me happy. Family is a big factor and I love spending time with my family. What…

  • Stop And Focus On Yourself

    Stop And Focus On Yourself

    When I’m stressed and struggling I try to just stop. Stop for a second and listen to myself think. I will talk to myself to discover what it is that’s stressing me out and I will pinpoint it. If it’s something in my hands I’ll make an action plan to work around solving it and…

  • Beauty Within The Chaos

    Beauty Within The Chaos

    It can get difficult, dealing with our chaos especially when it begins to affect other aspects of our lives, maybe our education, work, family life, social relations and can change the way we behave with others and ourselves. But it’s important to take a step back from everything to reflect, not becoming too caught up…

  • Selfie Care

    Selfie Care

    Good times with my 2 lovely boys; Family; Friends; Trying to be healthy; Me time; We time; Time out Having a great work life balance; Laughing; Caring; Sharing; Tea and cake; Cosy PJ’s; Theatre; Cinema; Reading; Reflecting; Lie ins; Proper coffee with cream on a Sunday morning; Radio dramas; Hot showers; Roast dinners with all…

  • Help Others To Help Yourself

    Help Others To Help Yourself

    Well someone like myself is usually very busy and sometimes tend to forget the important things in life like my family, friends and my general health and well-being. When in huge distress and something not going right in my life I try do some charity work (on the ground) and support those who are in…

  • Refresh And Recharge

    Refresh And Recharge

    Allow yourself to be your number priority. Focus on your development, focus on your education. These are things that no one can take from you.  Appreciate your close ones; family and friends, and spend time with them. Give your mind a break. Allow yourself to refresh and recharge.

  • Knowing Your Priorities

    Knowing Your Priorities

    I look after myself by knowing and understanding my priorities. First and foremost as a Muslim woman my priorities are to Allah, meaning that I put my duties such as salah before everything else. I then base everything else in my life in terms of whether it will bring me closer to Allah or away.…

  • Being Kind To Myself

    Being Kind To Myself

    Looking after myself is something which has been evolving constantly for myself. For example my Life experiences, my friends /family and my professional surrounding all together account for the way I look after myself. My education and religion has been a big part of how I see things and I have become a reflective individual…

  • Self-Care Is A Lifestyle

    Self-Care Is A Lifestyle

    Within the last couple of years I have really crafted my self-care strategies. I take time out to meditate, because it clears my mind. I spend some time alone, because too much stimulation can tire me out. I journal, because it helps get my thoughts out and create new ideas. I exercise, because it energises…

  • Nourishing My Heart Through Prayer

    Nourishing My Heart Through Prayer

    The way I look at it there is so much we do not have control over in our lives such as who our parents are, where we were born, whether people will like us or not, the security of our jobs and so on. However Allah does not hold us accountable for these things; He…

  • You Can Take A Break

    You Can Take A Break

    Before anything else I must first acknowledge I’m not in a good mood. I’m going to tell myself “it’s ok, you can take a break” because there is no shame in that. Regardless of the reasons, big or small, recognise that whatever way I’m feeling, if I’m not in a good place, then I’m completely…

  • It Makes All The Difference

    It Makes All The Difference

    Looking after myself for me is something I’m still not great at but I feel the difference when I do. It’s not something I was taught to do growing up and it’s not something that I think sits comfortably culturally. It can still be misunderstood as self indulgent and even selfish somehow. Caring for others…

  • Accepting Myself

    Accepting Myself

    The first and foremost way of looking after myself is to accept myself as a person and acknowledging the fact that perfect is not real. Also being mindful about the present moment which can be difficult at times and challenging. This can be put into practice when praying as this is another way of taking…

  • Step One To Contentment

    Step One To Contentment

    Self-care has become quite the ‘in’ thing on social media with hashtags making rounds on every platform. Though flippant at first, it was only when things started catching up to me in the past year that I’ve realised the importance of self-care and, as a result, I’ve become an advocate for it.  Methods vary for…

  • Courage And Tough Love

    Courage And Tough Love

    I think looking after yourself requires a lot of courage. Whilst sometimes looking after myself looks like taking a bubble bath or reading books like ‘The Compassionate Mind’ by Paul Gilbert or going on a walk or taking myself out somewhere I love – often looking after myself is the total opposite of an Insta…

  • Self Care Is Obligatory

    Self Care Is Obligatory

    Self care is a must. In times of hardship, trials and tribulations we can neglect ourselves.  1) ASK yourself WHY your are feeling stress today. 2) Really LISTEN to what your thoughts are telling you. Are thoughts racing? Are your criticising yourself? Don’t forget to celebrate and appreciate your successes however small they may seem!…

  • Be Fair To Yourself

    Be Fair To Yourself

    In recent times I’ve learnt when I’m feeling more or less resilient. Remember this fluctuates depending on workload, stress and use of social media. Make time for Salah. It’s that calm in the storm of your day. Speak to Allah, let Him know your woes, struggles and weaknesses. Have a cry! Just remember to let…

  • Take Your Time

    Take Your Time

    I know life gets hard some days. You feel it’s not worth trying. You feel the day is never going to end and your stuck in this moment forever. Everywhere you look is hopeless, the people around you have no time for you or think they know better. How did I get out of this…

  • Faith Is The Only Way Forward

    Faith Is The Only Way Forward

    I think that the best way to look after yourself is by having faith in yourself and in God. Just by merely saying you have faith in yourself and God, does not mean you practice the act of having faith in yourself and in God.  If you constantly remind yourself that God will not burden…

  • Always Surround Yourself With Positivity

    Always Surround Yourself With Positivity

    I’m sure many of you reading this have been a student at some point in your life so you may or may not relate to this. Currently, I’m studying Medicine and I must admit that it can sometimes become very draining since it requires so much time and effort. I end up becoming so busy…

  • Selfish Or Selfless?

    Selfish Or Selfless?

    This topic is one which I constantly battle with everyday, and rightly so as we humans are warped in our own cocoons as the demands of everyday life dominate the one thing which is paramount to our mental health.  Funnily enough, I recently had a conversation about this with a dear relative of mine, and…

  • Investing In Myself

    Investing In Myself

    I know I am looking after myself when I find that weekly I am able to invest some of my time in me, rather than revolving my life around the needs of a 9-5 job, the demands my employer or just purely letting life run away with me. I aim to do this through simple…

  • Self-Preservation

    Self-Preservation

    When I start to feel overwhelmed by tasks and responsibilities, I remind myself to pause. I ignore that voice in my head telling me that I need to keep getting things done, to keep being a productive member of society. I take a self-compassionate approach. I can only be productive when I am looking after…

  • It’s OK

    It’s OK

    I have had to learn the hard way that looking after yourself  is not selfish. It is the complete opposite. Looking after yourself, be it, small forms of self care, making sure you read a book at the end of the day or taking the time to have lunch, enables you to be the best…

  • A Shift In Perspective

    A Shift In Perspective

    “There is nothing I can’t do if I put my mind to it.” A statement that I have been holding onto for just over 10 years. A statement that I fall back on when I feel moments of stress, struggles, and setbacks are beginning to slowly creep up on me. It’s an indicator to assess…

  • Allah SWT Loves Us

    Allah SWT Loves Us

    Bismillah, Allah swt loves me! So I owe it to myself to take care of me. I’m the Founder of MuslimMentalAid which supports Sisters who are challenged by mental health issues, in order to do that I need to practice what I preach! I also have a mental illness so I totally understand the challenges…

  • Invest In Your Prayer

    Invest In Your Prayer

    Just like your body has rights, nourish your soul and feel your prayer. Experience it, don’t ‘read’ it 🙂

  • Finding Pockets Of Peace

    Finding Pockets Of Peace

    Juggling the multiple roles that we do can often be rewarding and motivating, but it can also bring with it stress and exhaustion. I am reminded of the hadith of our Prophet SAW who said, “Take advantage of five before five: your youth before your old age, your health before your illness, your riches before…

  • Hibernation

    Hibernation

    I sometimes find looking after myself very difficult to prioritise amongst the responsibilities as a professional, wife, mother and daughter. Sometimes when things get too much my body forces me to rest and I may get ill. When this happens I know it’s time to slow down, and I make sure that I take time…

  • A Release

    A Release

    This world is an aggressive and scary place to be in – sometimes it’s hard to actually stop and think about how we feel because everywhere we turn, someone has it out for us. We may not even know them, but it sucks that stereotypes play a larger role in the perception of a personality…

  • Road To Recovery

    Road To Recovery

    My road to recovery was not easy. I have always been a resilient person throughout my life as I have bounced back from difficult times on my feet ready for the next challenge. But there are a number of ways I look after myself. Number one being using a gratitude journal. Since journaling it has…

  • Hello You

    Hello You

    I pray 5 times a day and try to think of those less fortunate than me. I go gym, currently on the waiting list for an ACL repair (will take better care of myself from here on out) I spend time with those around me, my family, friends, colleagues, having good people around you helps…

  • Supporting Myself

    Supporting Myself

    Whilst I may be a comfort to those who confide in me about their mental health or personal problems, I happily give hours/days/months to them and help them get out of the dark place that they’re in, I realised that I needed to show that same support to myself. In the past, whenever I used…

  • Salah A Cornerstone Of Self Care

    Salah A Cornerstone Of Self Care

    I would like to begin this message regarding self-care with a narration from the Prophet (SAW) and two of his Companions (May Allah SWT be pleased with them all). In the story there are lessons for us and the importance of self-care in every Muslim’s life, how to develop a work-life-balance and learn the practice…

  • Pay Attention Inwards

    Pay Attention Inwards

    I try as much as possible to take the time out to do what makes me feel good! Long walks, yoga and reciting dhikr helps to refill my joy tank.  And I can never go wrong with gratitude journaling or curling in bed with a good book that keeps me on the edge of my…

  • Family And Friends

    Family And Friends

    In this day and age it often feels like there is a looming deadline for our personal success. As a result, we push ourselves to work to extremes in order to meet our self imposed ideas of what success is. As a Muslim, I understand that monetary success or career successes are all peripheral to…

  • Letter To My Past Self

    Letter To My Past Self

    Your going through a tough time, but do not neglect yourself. Its great to be ambitious but don’t forget that a healthier and happier you will make you more capable of achieving your goals. I say this because a lot of the time in the past, my former self felt like taking time out and…

  • When The Mind Hurts

    When The Mind Hurts

    For me looking after myself means needing to disengage from worldly matters as much as is possible, taking time out to just breathe, to feel the earth, be in nature, walk and pray on grass to feel the earth, to play with sand, soil and plant things – watch them grow. Touch and hug trees…

  • One Moment At A Time

    One Moment At A Time

    I’ve been quite a bit of a busy bee over the last 2 years Alhamdulillah. I’m a divorcee with no kids in my mid-30s but I yearn to now make my dreams become a reality, to make it tangible.  I work full-time, Alhamdulillah. I’ve also set up a not-for-profit organisation on the side, Alhamdulillah. And…

  • My Okay

    My Okay

    When I think about what keeps me sane, I’d say it includes being pre-emptive about some of the things I know cause emotional dysregulation for me. This allows me to then equally have a bank of experiences and means to know what will help. Some of the common ways I support myself to emotionally regulate…

  • Patience & Resilience

    Patience & Resilience

    I have re-written this very sentence a number of times and it’s really testing my patience to say the least. The truth is, the idea of looking after myself is uncomfortable and the reality of it is a bitter pill to swallow. An ego filled mask of “toughness” would have screamed 4 years ago that…

  • Knowing Your Limits

    Knowing Your Limits

    I have learnt to listen to my body when it’s tired, to learn to say ‘no’ to things when I need a break and to take breaks without feeling guilty. Part of this has been about prioritising the most important commitments such as uni or work and leaving other things, no matter how hard it…

  • Self Care For The Muslim Millennial

    Self Care For The Muslim Millennial

    Reflection. Introspection. All that jazz. The question was posed how do I look after myself and it made me stop and think about how do I actually look after myself or indeed  DO I look after myself. Upon some thought I broke it down in to two, the overall concept I use for looking after…

  • You Do You, Boo

    You Do You, Boo

    Often when we think of the word selfish it has negative connotations – we’ve been brought up by society to think being selfish is shameful. My whole life I’ve always lived for others or put others happiness/needs before mine whether it be in a work setting i.e. taking on extra tasks or going the extra…

  • Looking Inward And Into The Past

    Looking Inward And Into The Past

    Recently, I’ve started exercising again. I learn Tajweed and recite the Quran with a teacher weekly. I also notice I feel better when I gain through spiritual knowledge. At the moment, I’m learning about Sayyida Fatimah al-Zahra (RA) and her virtues. My heart softens learning how she overcomes her setbacks and stress, and how she…

  • Travel, Test Yourself And Learn A New Skill

    Travel, Test Yourself And Learn A New Skill

    Travel, test yourself and learn a new skill, meet new people. I kept getting depressed by looking at my past and all my failures or had constant stress anxiety worrying about where I wanted to be in the future. Not being where I wanted to be in the present I kept feeling like a failure…

  • Self Pamper

    Self Pamper

    I look after myself by making sure I catch up with family and friends at least once a week, and share the challenges and highlights that I’ve had. I also self pamper by taking care of my hair and body by making my own body creams. I feel happy knowing that I’m nurturing my skin…

  • Connecting Out From Isolation

    Connecting Out From Isolation

    As a mum of 4, a psychotherapist, an academic researcher, a wife and everything else (in no particular order although the 1st commands more of my time than anyone else!), it’s generally hard to find time to look after myself. I fight for that right often putting others needs before my own.  In the past,…

  • Reflect On My Purpose

    Reflect On My Purpose

    Maintain my morning routine, prayer, tasbih, zikr, stretch and make an intention that my actions are to seek my Creators pleasure. Treating myself kindly, so I can give of myself to others. Surrounding myself with positive, generous and compassionate friends. Eat healthy fast twice a week, walk daily and practice gratitude.

  • Take Care Of Yourself Sheikh

    Take Care Of Yourself Sheikh

    This is not something that I would normally do, as I am someone who is often approached to give advice and I regularly advise others to achieve a better way of life, so here goes. You regulate your life according to the Quran and Sunnah, and there is much advice given in these sources concerning…

  • Recuperating The Mind

    Recuperating The Mind

    Over the last 6 months, my life, my mind has been on the go. Transitioning from one job to another, starting a new project, preparing for the doctorate application and the list can go on. It’s difficult when everything is happening in one go, no matter how well things are going, it can affect your…

  • Avoiding Stress

    Avoiding Stress

    My number one self-care tip that I would share is to avoid stress.  Whatever may be stressing you out, if it’s work or studies, take a minute to take a step back and remind yourself why you began, and look at how far you’ve come. Never foresee any effort made – even if they are…

  • My Daily Care Ritual

    My Daily Care Ritual

    Selfcare is vital for my wellbeing and emotional health! It meets so many of my emotional needs, which helps me to feel balanced and at peace on a physical, emotional, mental and spiritual level. Taking on the #365daysofselfcare challenge in 2018 helped me to recognise that there are many ways I take care of myself…

  • Look After Everyone

    Look After Everyone

    My reminder to look after myself is that I look after others and I need to stay fit and able enough to do so. I have realised that stretching is a separate activity to exercise. We need it because in flexibility there is strength. Now my stretch routine is independent of my gym routine. It’s…

  • Close Relationships

    Close Relationships

    I look after myself by making sure I have a close relationship with my family and friends and making time for people as much as I can. 

  • My Success Is Only By Allah

    My Success Is Only By Allah

    I have found that putting yourself first in today’s society is just as important as caring for the ones around us. We now live in a society that reflects more so on individualist notions of putting yourself first than previous collectivist notions of working together for success. The constant increase of capitalism has meant that…

  • Me Myself And Me

    Me Myself And Me

    When I am stressing a lot at work or if I’m depressed I like to chill with my family to forget about the world and focus on them Banter with sibling and have a laugh especially my little brother and sister.  In my Salah, I would recite Ad Duha one of my favourite Surah in…

  • Do You

    Do You

    When we imagine self care and looking after yourself, we often think of 5am yoga and smoothie bowls. But that doesn’t work for everyone. For me, looking after myself is as simple as letting myself have a lie in for as long as my body needs, or skipping the gym after a long day at…

  • Self Love

    Self Love

    Remember you are human. You are loved, you are important. Feel your chest rising and falling, slower and slower. Take care of your breathing, take it easy. Give yourself time to reflect, to ask yourself how you are feeling. Thank your body for what it is, love yourself fully, accept all that has gone and…

  • Self Awareness = Self Care

    Self Awareness = Self Care

    Being self aware has become an important part of my self care over the last few years. Knowing myself and the things that can trigger me emotionally as well as knowing when I’m overdoing things physically, helps me better manage my health and plan my life better. Writing is a way for me to not…

  • Love Yourself Before You Love Others

    Love Yourself Before You Love Others

    Dear me, This is a reminder to reflect and think about your wellbeing. First of all never say ‘what if’ – “a strong believer is better and dearer to Allah than a weak one, and both are good. Keenly pursue what benefits you, seek help only from Allah, and do not give up. If something…

  • Be With Allah And Don’t Care

    Be With Allah And Don’t Care

    Most people think that this life must be full of happiness, but in the fact there isn’t happiness in this life. This life is full of diseases, disasters, poverty and misery. The believer knows that there is no happiness except when you are with God.  Me personally when I was in trouble I was talking to God.…

  • Step Outside

    Step Outside

    The best way to recalibrate my mind, body or soul is to go on a hike and surround myself around nature! It helps ground me and shifts my focus on what truly matters. Going with a group of friends always makes it better- the picnics, the conversations and the positive energy have the power to…

  • My Way Of Healing

    My Way Of Healing

    Looking after ourselves is so so very important and the most foolproof way of healing. Over the years I developed many ways of self-care that I did not even realise were self-care methods until I learned more about mental health and psychology. It’s actually the little things that gave me the best results. Some of…

  • Consistency Is Key

    Consistency Is Key

    Peace of mind is not an action but a way of life. You are your biggest friend or worst enemy so take care of yourself every day, the days you’re needed you’ll be glad that you have a solid foundation. Little things every day or every week make a big difference. Don’t forget to do…

  • Dear Me, Myself And I

    Dear Me, Myself And I

    No you are not ugly, horrible, stupid or a bad Muslim. You’re a human who goes through ups and downs. So don’t beat yourself up if you’re having a bad day physically, emotionally and spiritually.  The first thing to say is Allah is with you. Open the Qur’an randomly and read the first ayah you…

  • There’s Always A Way

    There’s Always A Way

    There are many ways that people try and look after themselves. I guess it varies depending on how a person is and their personality. I personally find that if I have a problem I would want to talk about it to someone (usually my wife) who will give me comfort and listen to me. They…

  • Small Steps To A Peaceful Me

    Small Steps To A Peaceful Me

    I know you are reading this because you are probably feeling overwhelmed and low. You internalise things and often feel like you have the weight of the world on your shoulders. Well, then it’s a good idea you wrote this to yourself! To remind yourself that it’s ok to feel this way and to BREATHE.…

  • Tips To Balance The Blues

    Tips To Balance The Blues

    When things get rough sometimes, and they do, these are a few self-care tips I turn to, to make me feel better.  The easiest thing to make me feel better is taking a nap. Just crawling into my bed, turning every device off, in complete darkness, with an open window blowing in cool air and…

  • Acknowledge Your Feelings

    Acknowledge Your Feelings

    Sometimes life can become very overwhelming with everything going on. There are so many emotions that come with every aspect of life. Embrace how you are feeling. It is okay to feel a spectrum of feelings from being upset, depressed, lonely to happy and excited. There is no right way of expressing emotion, so do…

  • Self Care Is Not Easy

    Self Care Is Not Easy

    I hadn’t really thought about how I take care of myself until I got asked ‘how do you look after yourself?’ at a recent meeting to which I had given, a not so well thought out answer. But after some thought and reflection, there are three things that help keep my mind and heart at…

  • Mind Body Soul

    Mind Body Soul

    Taking time to look after yourself isn’t always easy especially when you’re going through a hard time but even in showing ourselves the smallest kindnesses we can make a big difference to our overall health and well-being. For me, it has always been about a mind, body and soul connection because I believe all three…

  • My Self Care

    My Self Care

    The way I look after myself varies according to the situation and what I am feeling that particular time. One way is taking some time out to pull myself away from where I am and go to a more quiet place, here I sit down and talk to myself about what it is that is…

  • The Great Outdoors

    The Great Outdoors

    Taking time out to allow for some headspace and time to reflect. I do this best by enjoying the great outdoors. Whether it’s a drive out to explore beautifully landscaped gardens or the local park. Something magical about being out in the fresh air for much needed self care and it has added physical benefits…

  • How I Try To Stay Sane

    How I Try To Stay Sane

    Taking care of yourself is as important as taking care of others. I believe we should put equal amount of energy in self care as we do taking care of others! When we take care of ourselves we should think of our spiritual, physical, psychological and emotional wellbeing. Following are some of my ways I…

  • Don’t Be Ashamed

    Don’t Be Ashamed

    I do not want you to be ashamed of having to deal with stress, struggles, setbacks and more seriously – mental health. It is all about how you #LookAfterYourself and these are some of the things I suggest you do more of this year in order to relax your mind, body, and soul.  1) Exercise!…

  • Selflessly, Putting Yourself First

    Selflessly, Putting Yourself First

    Mental health, is not as visible to us as physical health. Perhaps that’s why it seems to be overlooked at times. But that also makes it more dangerous to our overall wellbeing, since our concerns are not addressed. Looking after yourself, means taking care of yourself before you do so of others. Because one thing…

  • When Everyday Life Gets Stressful

    When Everyday Life Gets Stressful

    It’s so important to look after yourself and your well-being, these days there are so many day to day stressors whether that is work or personal circumstance. For me, I look after myself in lots of different ways. I use exercise and going to the gym to manage my stress and to zone out from…

  • Your Health And Well-Being Comes First

    Your Health And Well-Being Comes First

    How I look after myself is that I like to play football at least two times a week. That is because I like to keep fit and in shape. So if I for instant am struggling to run around much in a game then I’ll cut back on some of the junk food that I…

  • My Self Reflection

    My Self Reflection

    Satisfaction within ones self is very important, you should not only feel happy physically (the way you look, etc) but also mentally. I look after myself in various ways, but there is one important factor in my well being and that is simply Islam. My religion is who I ultimately am and if I feel…

  • Learning To Let Go

    Learning To Let Go

    Dear you, You’re always moving non-stop girl! When do you ever have time for yourself? Ensure you give yourself time to breathe and it’s okay to say no to people. It doesn’t mean that you’ll disappoint them. And it certainly does not mean they will not like you, forget about you or abandon you. You’re…

  • Me, Myself And I

    Me, Myself And I

    Growing up I wasn’t too good at looking after myself, I always preferred to be taken care off. But the older I have become, I like to think the wiser I am and I have learned that the only person who is responsible for my own happiness is ‘me’.  So now I try and implement…

  • Do You Know Your Nafs?

    Do You Know Your Nafs?

    I was once asked; “do you know yourself?” “Well, I would like to think so”, was my response. The questioner again asked, “do you really know yourself? Do you know your wants, your needs and your desires? Do you know how to control yourself when required?” These questions have since led me on a journey…

  • Motherhood And Me

    Motherhood And Me

    A bit about me: I am a full-time working mum of a toddler. Adapting to motherhood was a huge learning curve for me. It wasn’t easy and I felt I was sinking under the pressure. During this time, I learn the vital importance of looking after myself. It sounds like the cliché of your parents…

  • Fill Me, I’m Empty

    Fill Me, I’m Empty

    If you’re a person who has grown to share and care for others, then it would be a piece of cake for you to take care of your own self, isn’t that right? No, that is not true. When it comes to taking care of us we run to others for help. We ask them…

  • My Health And Happiness

    My Health And Happiness

    I look after my health and happiness by making use of the spiritual aspects of my life in which I look beyond the materialistic pleasures of this world.

  • Unlock The Joy Within

    Unlock The Joy Within

    I’m a firm believer in finding your own joy – that’s the first step when it comes to looking after yourself. Not to rely on others for something that is already within you. The best way to look after yourself is become your own best friend, honouring yourself, appreciating yourself and identifying your own needs without feeling guilty.  For me, that can be quality…

  • Me, Myself & I-mportant

    Me, Myself & I-mportant

    Looking after others is something we all do in some way everyday. Looking after me, myself & I is Important, why? I need food, water, to feed the physical body. I need a healthy mindset to feed the brain…. something that is harder than I thought in my life as a therapist… i’m human too.…

  • Love Yourself

    Love Yourself

    A simple thought, just to love yourself. We don’t do it enough.  Take away the things in your life that bring you down, the negative people, the negative situations. Love yourself, you deserve to have more positivity in your life.  Treat yourself well, you deserve the good that comes to you. So do things that are good towards you,…

  • You Are Important

    You Are Important

    Allah (swt) has created us in the best of forms (mentally, physically and spiritually) and have given us the tools and means to maintain these forms.To look after my physical self I ensure I eat good wholesome foods and in moderation (this was not always the case in the past as I would overeat on…