Eman Sakina

Modern life is fast. Many Muslims wake up to social media notifications, rush through meals, stay up too late, and feel constantly distracted. In the midst of all this, we often forget that the Prophet Muhammad already taught us a balanced way of life.

Friday Musings

The Sunnah is not only about prayer and worship; it also includes the small daily habits that shape our health, character, and connection with Allah.

One of the greatest misconceptions is that the Sunnah consists only of recommended religious rituals. In reality, the Prophet demonstrated how faith should be reflected in every ordinary moment. He taught moderation instead of excess, gratitude instead of entitlement, simplicity instead of extravagance, and compassion instead of selfishness.

His daily habits were never random. They nurtured discipline, protected physical health, strengthened family bonds, and kept the remembrance of Allah alive throughout the day.

Some of these habits have become “forgotten Sunnahs.” They were not rejected, but slowly replaced by convenience and modern routines. Reviving them is not about going backwards. It is about returning to a lifestyle filled with barakah, discipline, and peace.

Allah says: “Indeed, in the Messenger of Allah you have an excellent example.” (Qur’an 33:21)

The Miswak

One of the simplest Sunnah is using the miswak. The Prophet loved cleanliness and encouraged oral hygiene. He said that if it were not difficult for his ‘ummah’, he would have ordered them to use the miswak before every prayer.

Today, people spend money on many dental products, yet this simple Sunnah remains powerful. Using the miswak is not only good for cleanliness; it also turns an ordinary habit into an act of worship.

Sleeping Early

Many people now stay awake late into the night scrolling, watching, or chatting. The Prophet, however, preferred to sleep early and avoid unnecessary late-night talk. This habit helps protect the Fajr prayer, gives the body proper rest, and brings more order to the day.

Allah says: “And We made your sleep for rest.” (Qur’an 78:9). Sleeping early is a small change, but it can improve both worship and well-being.

Eating frugally

We live in a time of excess. Large portions and constant snacking have made overeating normal. The Prophet taught moderation and said that the worst vessel a person can fill is the stomach. He advised leaving one-third for food, one-third for drink, and one-third for breathing.

Eating less does not mean starving. It means controlling desire, avoiding waste, and remembering that food is a blessing, not an obsession.

 Beginning with Bismillah

The Prophet taught us to begin our actions with the name of Allah. Saying “Bismillah” before eating, leaving home, or starting work reminds us that success comes from Allah alone. It turns daily routines into moments of remembrance.

Gratitude and Smile

The Sunnah also teaches gratitude after eating, smiling at others, and speaking goodness or remaining silent. The Prophet said that smiling is charity, and that a believer should speak good or stay quiet. These are small habits, but they soften hearts and strengthen relationships.

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Why These Sunnahs Matter?

Reviving forgotten Sunnahs is not about copying actions blindly. It is about bringing the Prophet’s spirit into our daily lives. A miswak beside the toothbrush, an earlier bedtime, a smaller meal, a sincere smile, and a quiet “Bismillah” can all bring us closer to Allah.