Here is a fascinating insight into what doing wudu actually does for you physically!
Here is a fascinating insight into what doing wudu actually does for you physically!
Have you ever stood at the edge of a vast ocean, listening to the rhythmic crash of waves that lull you into tranquillity? Or were you gazing upon a crystal-clear lake, admiring its mirror-like surface and reflecting its serenity?
Water possesses an undeniable power to soothe the soul in its many forms. This calming effect isn’t just a feeling; science supports it. However, this profound connection between water and calmness transcends the physical realm.
In Islam, ritual purification, known as Wudhu, uses water as a fundamental element. This practice promotes physical cleanliness, cultivates inner peace, and prepares for prayer. During the quiet moments of Wudhu, washing with water serves as a conduit between the external world and the internal sanctuary of the heart.
In moments when you feel angry and far from peaceful, performing Wudhu can take on a new significance. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recognized that anger can consume you and that Wudhu can be a powerful tool to quell the flames of anger within you. He offers a beautiful metaphor: just as water extinguishes a physical blaze, performing Wudhu can help extinguish the fiery intensity of rage within you.
The Prophet is reported to have said in a Hadith: “Anger comes from the devil, the devil was created of fire, and fire is extinguished only with water; so when one of you becomes angry, he should perform ablution” (Sunan Abu Dawud 4784, Book 43, Hadith 12).
Have you ever wondered why Wudhu places such emphasis on washing the face? This focus might seem intuitive for physical cleanliness. Still, it takes on a deeper meaning when considering its potential impact on managing anger.Â
Performing Wudhu activates the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for facial sensation. This sudden sensory input may interrupt the cycle of anger and promote a calmer perspective.
The trigeminal nerve is a complex communication network for your face that has three branches: the ophthalmic nerve for your forehead and eyes, the maxillary nerve for your cheeks and upper lip, and the mandibular nerve for your lower jaw and chin. When you perform Wudhu and wash these areas with water, the trigeminal nerve sends signals to the brain. This sudden influx of sensory information disrupts the ongoing flow of anger-related signals.
Imagine your brain as a concert hall. Anger is the lead singer, dominating the performance with its loud and aggressive melody. Wudhu triggers the trigeminal nerve activation, which is like a sudden drum solo. This brief interruption momentarily disrupts the lead singer and catches the audience’s (brain’s) attention. This allows the prefrontal cortex (PFC) to step in. The PFC is responsible for higher-order functions like planning, decision-making, and emotional regulation. With the anger melody temporarily dampened, the PFC can reanalyze the situation, reconsider the source of anger, and initiate calming responses.
In 2021, White conducted a study examining the trigeminal nerve’s function in regulating cerebral blood flow (CBF). Improved CBF has various benefits, such as better cognitive function, improved memory, and reduced stress levels. These factors can all contribute to more effective management of anger.
Your ability to think clearly and make rational decisions can become impaired when angry. However, performing Wudhu can increase CBF, potentially improving cognitive function and allowing for a more measured approach.
The trigeminal nerve in the face plays a crucial role in Wudhu’s calming effect, but washing hands should be noticed. The autonomic nervous system (ANS) governs involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion.
It has two branches: the sympathetic nervous system, responsible for the “fight or flight” response, and the parasympathetic nervous system, known as the “rest and digest” system. When you experience stress or anger, the sympathetic nervous system kicks in, increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and muscle tension to prepare you for action.
During Wudhu, as you wash your hands, the gentle touch of water stimulates several nerves in your hands, including the median and ulnar nerves. This stimulation can help counteract the activation of the sympathetic nervous system by triggering the parasympathetic nervous system, resulting in a relaxation response.
Research conducted by Sramek et al. in 2000 shows that immersing oneself in thermoneutral water (water at a temperature of 32-37°C) can significantly increase parasympathetic activity. This can result in a decrease in heart rate, blood pressure, and plasma renin activity. These findings further support the idea that performing Wudhu, especially with thermoneutral water, can effectively promote relaxation and emotional well-being.
Washing your feet during Wudhu can be a mindful experience that helps you stay calm. This is because the gentle pressure on your feet activates nerve endings, such as the sural and plantar nerves, which send signals to the parasympathetic nervous system. Â
In essence, Wudhu’s foot washing offers a sensory and mindful experience that complements the calming effect of facial washing on the trigeminal nerve. Therefore, performing Wudhu can provide a multifaceted approach to achieving a peaceful mind.
Interestingly, the Hadith from Sahih Muslim 244, Book 2, Hadith 44, narrated by Abu Huraira, informs that Wudhu not only cleanses the body but also washes away sins committed through your eyes, hands, and feet. While the scientific explanation focuses on Wudhu’s physiological and psychological effects, the Hadith reminds you of the spiritual significance of this ritual. The act of washing away sins can be interpreted as a symbolic cleansing of our intentions and actions, which aligns our inner state with physical purification.
The next time you feel overwhelmed by anger, remember the wisdom of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the calming power of Wudhu. This simple ritual can be a decisive first step in regaining emotional control. The refreshing touch of water, the shift in focus, and the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system can create a cascade of calming effects, allowing you to approach the situation with a clearer mind and a more peaceful heart.
Whether viewed from a scientific or spiritual perspective, Wudhu offers a holistic approach to well-being, promoting both physical and emotional tranquility.
