Uploaded March 2025 | Updated September 2026, 21 hours ago
Just like our immune system fights off harmful germs, a heart engaged in dhikr and reflection can recognize and counter negative thoughts. But what happens when we let barriers creep in—when distractions, doubts, or sins cloud our connection with Allah?
In this episode, Shaykh Mikaeel Ahmed Smith dives into what might be holding us back from truly engaging with our Creator. Drawing from the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ, he explores the obstacles that harden our hearts, the distractions that pull us away, and the practical steps we can take to protect our spiritual well-being.
🔔 Don't miss out—turn on YouTube notifications and follow us on Spotify to follow along with this series.
———
Inspired by Malik Badri’s 'Contemplation: An Islamic Psychospiritual Study,' this series delves into the art of contemplation, uncovering the essence of tafakkur, how to practice it, and its invaluable impact on our mental health, spiritual lives, and overall well being. Join Ustadha Dr. Rania Awaad and Shaykh Mikaeel Ahmed Smith as we explore the power of introspection, faith, and mental well-being. Subscribe for more discussions on Islamic philosophy and spirituality.
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❤️🩹 This Ramadan, support Maristan’s mission to provide culturally and spiritually aligned mental health care. Donate today at maristan.org.
#Tafakkur #IslamicReflection #DrRaniaAwaad #ShaykhMikaeelAhmedSmith #SignsOfAllah #IslamicStudies #SpiritualGrowth
Just like our immune system fights off harmful germs, a heart engaged in dhikr and reflection can recognize and counter negative thoughts. But what happens when we let barriers creep in—when distractions, doubts, or sins cloud our connection with Allah?
In this episode, Shaykh Mikaeel Ahmed Smith dives into what might be holding us back from truly engaging with our Creator. Drawing from the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ, he explores the obstacles that harden our hearts, the distractions that pull us away, and the practical steps we can take to protect our spiritual well-being.
🔔 Don't miss out—turn on YouTube notifications and follow us on Spotify to follow along with this series.
———
Inspired by Malik Badri’s 'Contemplation: An Islamic Psychospiritual Study,' this series delves into the art of contemplation, uncovering the essence of tafakkur, how to practice it, and its invaluable impact on our mental health, spiritual lives, and overall well being. Join Ustadha Dr. Rania Awaad and Shaykh Mikaeel Ahmed Smith as we explore the power of introspection, faith, and mental well-being. Subscribe for more discussions on Islamic philosophy and spirituality.
———
❤️🩹 This Ramadan, support Maristan’s mission to provide culturally and spiritually aligned mental health care. Donate today at maristan.org.
#Tafakkur #IslamicReflection #DrRaniaAwaad #ShaykhMikaeelAhmedSmith #SignsOfAllah #IslamicStudies #SpiritualGrowth








![International Mens Day Nov 19 2025 Post
Its #internationalmensday! Check out what Maristan has to say on Mens Mental Health in terms of:
- Stigma of seeking help in men
- Understanding mens mental health challenges
- What you can do if youre struggling
🫂💙 Remember, you are not alone. Are you or someone you know struggling?
📞 Naseeha Mental Health (USA, CAN): Call 1 (866) 627-3342 | Muslim helpline | Available 24/7 in English, see website for specific language and gender availability www.naseeha.org
📞 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (USA):
Call or text 988, live chat on website | Services available in English, Spanish and for Deaf/HoH
* Both hotlines are free and confidential, available 24/7.
- See more on Peer Minds Mentors, a culturally rooted mental health support for MENA & South Asian youth: https://www.instagram.com/peermindsmentors/
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Support Groups:
https://www.nami.org/findsupport/
* Click your state on the map, then click “all upcoming events” on the right under “All Programs in [YOUR STATE]”
See here for more resources and info on our California clinic: https://linktr.ee/Maristan
#maristan #islamicpsychology #psychoeducation #InternationalMensDay2025 #menshealth #breakthestigma #NAMI #AADA
Sources:
American Association of Depression and Anxiety. (n.d.). Men’s Mental Health. https://adaa.org/find-help/by-demographics/mens-mental-health
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). (2025b, July 7). Men’s Health Month. https://www.nami.org/get-involved/awareness-events/mens-health-month/ International Mens Day Nov 19 2025 Post](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/lyEQ9Vv1bJM/mqdefault.jpg)

