Develop A Healthy Islamic Body Image

In today's society, body image has become a significant concern, often influenced by societal pressures and unrealistic beauty standards. However, as Muslimahs, we can turn to our deen and draw inspiration from Islamic teachings to foster a positive body image. This blog post delves into the importance of developing a healthy body image within the context of Islam, addressing societal pressures, promoting self-acceptance, and embracing the beauty of diversity.

Allah subhana wata alaa has clearly stated in the Qur’an in surah (chapter) Ahzab 33: Ayah (verse) 59 how the Muslim woman should conseal her beauty.

يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلنَّبِىُّ قُل لِّأَزْوَٰجِكَ وَبَنَاتِكَ وَنِسَآءِ ٱلْمُؤْمِنِينَ يُدْنِينَ عَلَيْهِنَّ مِن جَلَـٰبِيبِهِنَّ ۚ ذَٰلِكَ أَدْنَىٰٓ أَن يُعْرَفْنَ فَلَا يُؤْذَيْنَ ۗ وَكَانَ ٱللَّهُ غَفُورًۭا رَّحِيمًۭا ٥٩

O Prophet, tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to bring down over themselves [part] of their outer garments. That is more suitable that they will be known2 and not be abused. And ever is Allāh Forgiving and Merciful.

To embark on the journey of cultivating a positive body image, it’s essential to recognise the societal influences and pressures that contribute to distorted perceptions of beauty. Media, advertising, and social media platforms often perpetuate unrealistic ideals, emphasising external appearance over inner qualities. Including the more naked you are the more beautiful you are.

Islam emphasises the importance of inner beauty and character over external appearances. The Qur'an repeatedly emphasises that Allah looks at the hearts and deeds of individuals rather than their physical attributes. This perspective serves as a reminder that our true worth lies in our character, actions, and connection with Allah, rather than in society's standards of beauty. This doesn’t mean we don’t look after our physical being, as we are advised to by our beloved Prophet Peace and blessings be upon him:

Al-‘Abbas reported: I said, “O Messenger of Allah, teach me something to ask Allah Almighty.” The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “Ask Allah for wellness.” I waited some days, then I came and said, “O Messenger of Allah, teach me something to ask Allah.” The Prophet said to me, “O ‘Abbas, O uncle of the Messenger of Allah, ask Allah for wellness in the world and in the Hereafter.”

Sunan al-Tirmidhi 3514

Also in another hadith

Ibn Abbas reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “Take advantage of five before five: your youth before your old age, your health before your illness, your riches before your poverty, your free time before your work, and your life before your death.”

Shu’ab al-Imān 9767

But that Allah doesn’t judge us on how beautiful we are.

The concept of "Hayaa" (modesty) is also deeply ingrained in Islamic teachings. Modesty encourages believers to maintain a sense of dignity and humility, valuing inner qualities such as kindness, compassion, and integrity. By focusing on developing these noble characteristics, we can cultivate a sense of self-worth that’s not reliant on physical appearance alone.

Society often imposes unrealistic beauty standards that can negatively impact our body image and self-esteem. However, as Muslimahs, we have the opportunity to challenge these societal norms and redefine our perception of beauty. Islam encourages us to appreciate and celebrate the diversity in physical appearances, recognising that each individual is uniquely created by Allah. We can all be fit and healthy but it doesn’t mean we will all look the same.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasised the importance of embracing one's natural physical features. He encouraged believers to take care of their bodies, maintaining good hygiene and health, while discouraging excessive focus on altering one's appearance through cosmetic means. This serves as a reminder to accept and appreciate ourselves as we are, recognizing that our bodies are a trust from Allah.

‘Abd-Allah ibn Mas’ud said: I heard the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) cursing those women who pluck their eyebrows and file their teeth for the purpose of beautification and change the creation of Allah. Narrated by al-Bukhari and Muslim.

Developing a positive body image starts with self-acceptance and self-love. Islam teaches us that we are beautifully and perfectly created by Allah subhana wata alaa, who knows us better than we know ourselves, let alone anyone else. We’re reminded to be grateful for our bodies and to care of them as a means of fulfilling our responsibilities as Muslimahs.

Practicing self-care and nurturing a healthy lifestyle can contribute to a positive body image. Engaging in regular physical activity, consuming healthy, natural foods, and getting adequate rest are all ways to show gratitude for the body that Allah subhana wata alaa has blessed us with. By focusing on our overall well-being rather than solely on physical appearance, we can develop a healthier relationship with our bodies and in turn our bodies will show us this. By the permission of Allah.

Additionally, seeking knowledge and understanding of Islamic teachings related to self-acceptance and self-worth can be empowering. Reflecting on verses from the Qur'an and the Prophet Muhammad's teachings that emphasise the beauty of the soul, the significance of character, and the value of modesty can help shift our focus away from societal pressures.

Developing a healthy body image is an ongoing journey that requires a shift in perspective and a deep-rooted understanding of Islamic teachings. By embracing the concepts of inner beauty, modesty, and self-acceptance, we can free ourselves from the pressures of societal standards and develop a positive body image rooted in faith. Through my movement and eating healthy and mindset this changed many things for me. Remember, our bodies are a gift from Allah and a trust. Nurturing them in a holistic manner allows us to lead fulfilling lives while maintaining a strong connection with our deen (faith).

May Allah strengthen us on what He and His Messenger are pleased with. Aameen

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