Does the Quran speak about mental energy management?

The concept of 'mental energy management' is a relatively modern term in psychology and self-development, referring to methods for optimizing and preserving individuals' cognitive, emotional, and psychological capacities to perform tasks and cope with challenges. Although the Holy Quran does not directly use this phrase or similar terminology, its profound and comprehensive teachings, principles, and guidelines provide strong foundations for mental health, inner peace, resilience, and the intelligent management of one's intellectual and emotional faculties. These can be considered a holistic framework for mental energy management. The Quran presents solutions that help believers free themselves from distress, anxiety, mental exhaustion, and scattered thoughts, guiding their psychological energies towards constructive and meaningful goals. These directives not only assist individuals in confronting difficulties but also enable them to optimally utilize their mental and psychological capacities to achieve success in this world and the hereafter. One of the most important and fundamental Quranic teachings directly related to mental energy management is 'Dhikr' or the remembrance of Allah. Almighty God states in Surah Ar-Ra'd, verse 28: «الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا وَتَطْمَئِنُّ قُلُوبُهُم بِذِكْرِ اللَّهِ ۗ أَلَا بِذِكْرِ اللَّهِ تَطْمَئِنُّ الْقُلُوبُ» (Those who believe and whose hearts find comfort in the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured). This verse clearly states that the primary source of inner peace and mental stability is the constant remembrance of God. The remembrance of God diverts the mind from worldly obsessions, unnecessary worries, and negative thoughts, connecting it to the inexhaustible source of divine peace and power. This connection acts like recharging a mental battery, restoring depleted energies and saving the mind from dispersion and distress. Dhikr, in its broad sense, includes contemplating divine verses, reciting the Quran, supplication (du'a), and even reflecting on God's blessings, all of which significantly aid in organizing thoughts and mental focus. When the mind is engaged in the remembrance of God, there is less room for anxiety and intrusive thoughts, which is a very effective way of managing and conserving mental energy. Another concept frequently mentioned in the Quran that has a profound impact on mental energy management is 'Tawakkul,' or reliance and trust in God. In Surah At-Talaq, verse 3, we read: «وَمَن يَتَوَكَّلْ عَلَى اللَّهِ فَهُوَ حَسْبُهُ ۚ إِنَّ اللَّهَ بَالِغُ أَمْرِهِ ۚ قَدْ جَعَلَ اللَّهُ لِكُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدْرًا» (And whoever relies upon Allah – He is sufficient for him. Indeed, Allah will accomplish His purpose. Allah has already set for everything a [decreed] extent). Tawakkul does not mean abandoning effort; rather, it means entrusting the outcome to God after making all possible efforts, freeing oneself from needless worries beyond one's control. Chronic worries about the future, failures, and incapacities are among the biggest factors in mental energy depletion. Tawakkul lifts this heavy burden from the mind, allowing individuals to focus on their current duties with greater calm and concentration. This profound inner assurance that God is the best Guardian and Supporter creates a deep sense of psychological security, preventing mental energy from being wasted in endless cycles of anxiety. 'Sabr' (patience) and 'Salat' (prayer) are also vital Quranic tools for mental energy management. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 153, it is stated: «يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا اسْتَعِينُوا بِالصَّبْرِ وَالصَّلَاةِ ۚ إِنَّ اللَّهَ مَعَ الصَّابِرِينَ» (O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient). Patience is not just about enduring hardships; it also includes perseverance in worship, steadfastness against sins, and self-control. Patience helps individuals avoid hasty and destructive reactions when faced with adversities, which themselves lead to the waste of mental energy. Sabr increases mental capacity for endurance and recovery, giving individuals the opportunity to approach issues with greater wisdom and insight. Prayer, as a direct communication with God, is a regular pause from the world's commotion, giving the mind a chance to reset and refocus. Salat, with its rhythmic movements and serene recitation, contributes to physical and mental calmness and, as a regular point of connection with the source of all power, renews one's psychological energy. The Quran also emphasizes 'Qana'at' (contentment) and avoiding excessive attachment to the material world. Although there is no direct verse with the phrase 'mental energy management,' numerous verses refer to the transient nature and deceptive allure of worldly life (e.g., Surah Al-Hadid, verse 20). Greed, envy, and endless competition for wealth and status are major drains on mental energy. By emphasizing the temporary nature of worldly pleasures and inviting focus on otherworldly goals, the Quran helps individuals free themselves from these traps. Contentment, meaning being satisfied with what God has provided and not worrying about what has been lost or not yet attained, lifts a heavy burden from the mind and allows it to focus on more important matters. This approach prevents the mental dispersion and exhaustion that result from the relentless pursuit of material aims. Furthermore, the Quran refers to the importance of 'Tafakkur' (contemplation) and 'Tadabbur' (reflection) on creation and divine signs (e.g., Surah Al-Imran, verse 191), which itself is a form of purposeful mental energy management. Instead of letting the mind wander in aimless and negative thoughts, the Quran invites it to reflect on the grandeur of God and the wisdom of creation, which leads to increased insight, spiritual growth, and strengthening of mental faculties. Also, 'self-control' and abstaining from carnal desires (e.g., Surah An-Naziat, verses 40-41) play a key role in preserving mental energy. Vain desires, including anger, excessive lust, and arrogance, can drain enormous mental energy and lead to inner turmoil. Controlling these desires helps individuals direct their energy towards noble goals and prevents the distress resulting from a lack of self-control. In summary, while the Holy Quran does not directly use the term 'mental energy management,' it offers a comprehensive and interconnected set of principles and teachings such as Dhikr, Tawakkul, Sabr, Salat, Qana'at, and self-control. These provide a practical and profound guide for maintaining and optimizing mental health and capacities. These teachings assist believers in achieving inner peace by focusing on God, reducing anxiety, remaining steadfast in difficulties, freeing themselves from worldly enslavement, and utilizing their mental energies in the best and most beneficial way possible. This divine framework not only aids in mental energy management but also leads to the full blossoming of human potential on the path to true well-being.