ACT Islamically
SESSION THREE
Session 3: Mindfulness and Living in the Present
Theme: Developing mindfulness skills and connecting them to Islamic practices like salah and dhikr.
Objectives:
- Teach mindfulness techniques for present-moment awareness.
- Explore how Islamic worship enhances mindfulness.
Outline:
Recap and Welcome (10 minutes)
- Review cognitive defusion and acceptance.
- Share reflections from the previous session’s homework.
Introduction to Mindfulness (15 minutes)
- Define mindfulness and its benefits.
- Discuss the connection between mindfulness and Islamic worship.
Mindfulness Exercises (20 minutes)
- Guided Practice: Deep breathing, body scan, and present-moment awareness.
- Islamic Integration: Focus on meanings during salah or dhikr (e.g., “Alhamdulillah”).
Daily Worship as Mindfulness (20 minutes)
- Discuss how prayer, dua, and dhikr cultivate mindfulness.
- Reflection: How can you be more mindful during your worship?
Homework Assignment (5 minutes)
- Practice a daily mindfulness exercise, such as deep breathing or mindful dhikr.
- Journal your experiences of mindful worship.
Closing and Dua (5 minutes)
- Summarize key lessons.
- Group dua for focus and mindfulness in daily life.
Dr. Aisha Chaudhry is a Muslim therapist who takes a holistic approach to promoting the well-being of Muslim women, seamlessly blending Islamic principles with psychological practices. Dr. Aisha Chaudhry focuses on emotional regulation and building a healthier life with clients struggling with trauma, OCD, anxiety, and depression.