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Be mindful of what you consume [80:24]

Loving and Living the Quran

Release Date: 03/17/2025

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More Episodes

Yesterday, we reflected on the importance of eating what is tayyib (pure, wholesome). Today, we expand on this idea by exploring all forms of consumption—not just what we eat, but what we read, watch, and listen to.

In Surah Abasa (80:24), Allah (SWT) commands:

“Then let man look at his food.”

While this verse primarily refers to physical nourishment, scholars explain that it also applies to spiritual and mental consumption. Just as we are mindful of what we eat, we must be mindful of what we feed our minds and hearts.

Key Takeaways:

🔹 Your Mental Diet Shapes You – We consume more information in a week than past generations did in a lifetime. What impact is this having on our well-being?
🔹 The Effects of Negativity – Doomscrolling, excessive news, and toxic content increase stress, anxiety, and cynicism.
🔹 Your Social Media Feed = Your Mental Fridge – What we follow and engage with determines our inner state.
🔹 What You Listen to Matters – Words, conversations, and music all contribute to the health of our hearts and minds.
🔹 Spiritual Guidance on Consumption:

  • Imam Baqir (AS): “Be careful from where and from whom you get your information.”
  • The Prophet (SAW): “The example of a good companion and a bad companion is like that of the seller of musk and the blacksmith’s bellows.”

How to Curate a Healthier Mental & Spiritual Diet:

Audit Your Social Media – Unfollow negativity, follow uplifting content.
Limit News Exposure – Stay informed, but don’t let bad news consume you.
Be Mindful of What You Listen To – Choose content that nurtures your soul.
Set Digital Boundaries – Reduce screen time, take social media breaks.
Engage in Real-Life Connections – Replace passive scrolling with meaningful conversations and time in nature.

Final Reflection:

"Are we feeding our souls with nourishment or toxins?"

May we all become more mindful of what we consume—not just on our plates, but in our hearts and minds. Ameen.

🎧 Tune in now to reflect on how to purify your mental and spiritual diet!