By I am a MONSTER when I PMS. Migraine/fever/mood swings… like WHOA! Seriously, God bless those who have to put up with me.
I won’t lie, it’s nice to not have to keep my prayers in check during that time… but sometimes my faith needs a little boost.
So what’s a girl to do when she can’t pray? Here’s a little listicle of things I’ve started doing over the years so that I can still keep in touch with my spirituality when my prayer rug and I are on a week long break.
Dhikir (Remembrance)
You can literally just sit in a field of daisies and think about how brilliant the universe is and that’s a form of worship. Breath, meditate, think about everything you are grateful for in life.
Read spiritual books
I will rave about Yasmin Moghaed’s book, Reclaim your Heart, forever and ever and ever, ameen. I heard about it when it was first published, but I didn’t read it until last summer, when my heart needed it the most. Read books that you can read slowly and reflect on; books that make you think about how you came to be the person you are, and reflect on all the blessings that have come your way.
Watch E-Khutbahs (sermons)
Suhaib Webb is my go-to because he reminds me that ain’t no waaaay Allah (SWT) expects me to be perfect. I’m flawed and always will be, and unlike those judgmental aunties at Jummah, he makes me want to worship. Find someone who speaks to you, and I promise it will make all the difference.
Get with a community
My squad–where oh where would I be without them? I’m blessed with my Muslim Girl family, but also with the best of friends who keep my deen in check. I have a few friends who make me a better Muslim just by being in their presence, and anytime I feel like I need to up my spirituality, I know they are a text, phone call, or coffee date away. When you can’t pray, keep those folks extra close.
Get your pen and pad out and start journaling
I said this once out loud and got weird looks, but I’ll say it again–my mind is my favorite place. I actually love thinking, and I get along with my thought process. We’re tight like that. Sometimes when I need to worship and can’t, I just check out. I’ll find a cozy coffee shop or hit up a hiking trail and just sit and write. Allah (SWT) says he is closer to us than our jugular vein. You don’t need a mosque or a prayer rug to connect. Write your thoughts, your dues, and your questions.
I hope this helps you during that special time of solitude. When your emotions are so screwy, you really need to get closer to Allah (SWT). Throughout the years, my relationship with Allah has kept me from losing it big time, and I’m positive that one of these five forms of worship will bring you some peace of mind as well.