Mindfulness Techniques and Practices in Islamic Psychotherapy

Nazila Isgandarova, PhD, DMin, RSW, RP, is a director of the supervised psycho-spiritual education programme and assistant professor at Emmanuel College of Victoria University in the University of Toronto. She is recipient of the Ontario government’s 2023 Champion of Diversity Award and the 2022 Order of Vaughan.

• 1. Introduction to Mindfulness 2. An Overview of Muraqabah as a Spiritual Practice 3. Muraqabah and the Human Nature 4. The Relevance of Muraqabah in Islamic Psychotherapy 5. The Techniques of Muraqabah in Islamic Psychotherapy 6. Incorporating Dhikr, Music, and Physical Movement in Muraqabah

“This groundbreaking book introduces readers to the practice of muraqabah, an important mindfulness technique in Islamic spirituality. The book incorporates a wealth of research, covering the practice of muraqabah in contemporary Sufi orders, muraqabah in classical Islamic texts, insights from psychotherapy and Islamic spiritual care, and Buddhist, Christian, and Jewish mindfulness techniques. The book can easily be utilized as a textbook for courses on muraqabah, Islamic spiritual care, or mindfulness techniques more generally. It also comes with an appendix with seven sample sessions, which are very helpful for clinicians, teachers, or practitioners. This book is a milestone in the emerging discipline of Islamic spiritual care and psychospiritual therapy and its innovative approach, comprehensiveness, and easy-to-read style make it a delight to read. A noteworthy accomplishment!” Nevin Reda, associate professor of Muslim studies, Emmanuel College, Victoria University, the University of Toronto, Canada“This book presents the Islamic beliefs and traditions of muraqabah and applies its numerous insights to Islamic spiritual care and psychotherapy. Dr Isgandarova also connects muraqabah to Christian, Buddhist and Jewish practices. The book is well done and is a great resource for scholars as well as practitioners. I highly recommend it.” Thomas St. James O’Connor, PhD, professor emeritus, Martin Luther University, Ontario, Canada“This book is a masterpiece authored by a leading expert in the field. With precision and depth, Dr Isgandarova merges Islamic mindfulness practices with modern psychotherapy by connecting past holistic therapeutic knowledge with the present. The book is enriched by the author’s experience in spiritual care and offers a profound exploration of healing and self-discovery.”Salih Yucel, associate professor and accredited clinical pastoral supervisor, Centre for Islamic Studies and Civilisation, Charles Sturt University, Australia