Keeping the brain functioning; How the Quran stabilised my brain.

Moving on with the impact of the Quran on our brain, in hindsight, me thinking perhaps it would be ideal to split it into further sections, but a topic so vast, it would only seem neverending!

Moral Reasoning:

The Quran provides a moral framework and guidance for ethical decision-making. Engaging with the Quranic teachings requires individuals to engage in moral reasoning, considering different perspectives, evaluating consequences, and applying principles to real-life situations. This process exercises cognitive abilities such as moral judgment, empathy, and ethical decision-making.

Although there are many possible verses relating to this; treatment of family, neighbours, and strangers. Social conduct, and support to others. A good example of this; is something that has helped people diagnosed with MS I know of, who felt isolated from their community and benefited when they were approached and supported by Msers of similar backgrounds. A reminder in the Quran and of benefit when acted upon. A mindset that is encouraged amongst fellow Muslims but helps build communities as a whole as a guideline for the treatment of others, regardless of colour or belief. A mindset of being there for each other and aiding fellow man in distress

Contextual understanding:

The Quran was revealed over a span of 23 years, and its verses were often revealed in response to specific historical, social, and cultural contexts. Understanding the Quran requires considering the historical background, cultural nuances, and interpretive methods. This contextual understanding engages cognitive skills like historical analysis, cultural sensitivity, and contextual interpretation.

This verse is a very profound one. Linking to a specific event that happened in the life of the prophet Muhammad ( pbuh), which most if not all Muslims would know of, relating to the story of the migration of city’s with lives being under threat. Although not the exact scenario, a person feeling hopeless can attain hope and conviction when coming across such a verse. Again something engaging numerous parts of cognition, history, politics, sociology, and even their emotion with a short few words.

After a period of difficulty and hopelessness in the prophetic life, the above-pictured chapter was revealed. One that I and many find solace in, with almost every aspect mentioned giving encouragement and a feeling of security when any worth may be hard to find.

Integration of knowledge:

The Quran touches upon various subjects, including theology, science, philosophy, and human nature. Engaging with its verses necessitates integrating knowledge from different domains, connecting ideas, and seeking a holistic understanding. This integration of knowledge exercises cognitive processes such as synthesis, conceptualization, and interdisciplinary thinking.

On an extremely cognitive basis, a verse referring to the frontal lobe in the brain as “lying and sinful forehead”, which may seem ambiguous but, the frontal lobe is the very part of the brain responsible for executive functions; planning, actions, and response. Linking to characteristics and actions of people the verse is alluding to. A part of the brain which when damaged due to MS, results in many commonly experienced symptoms in extreme variety.

Cognitive exercise.

Engaging with the Quran as a cognitive exercise requires active involvement, mental effort, and a willingness to explore its depths. By challenging cognitive processes such as language comprehension, memory, critical thinking, moral reasoning, and knowledge integration, the Quran can contribute to cognitive development and intellectual growth.

Other than the impacts on cognition from a pragmatic point of view ( our ability to think and complete things) the recitation of the Quran may have, in the life of a Muslim, it would coincide with any form of worship to understand, remember and get closer to God. Obtaining such an accomplishment that manifests a person to feel almost angelic. A position of comfort and peace regardless of their struggles.

Anecdotally, a respective friend I made who lives in a severe state of MS, keeping up with such practices in their lives at their own will, in a way that would put a monk in a monastery to shame. Their actions are celestial that they feel incomplete without their voluntary religious practices and confidently state ” I know this is a blessing and my lord will not disappoint me when I return to Him”.

In a nutshell, some may benefit from playing an instrument, their profession, teaching or learning but the practice would include the function of numerous cognitive abilities simultaneously and thus, encouraging the brain to work due to the reaction of a range of nerve cells connecting with each other and combating the natural decline of the brain occurring with age.

A topic to which my contribution here would only possibly be an atom worth in the library of literature written about it. I reiterate, I am no example but since my childhood, hearing its recitation being played at breakfast in the morning and fascinated when seeing videos of prayers on the television, I am still like many, only mesmorised by hearing the words of the Quran being recited, the cognitive impacts only possibly being a subject that much can be stated about and I like all, regardless of ability or background can only try our utmost best to engage with, learn about and recite the Quran, or anything that is beneficial for the brain, throughout our lives.

Rain, sun, or in between, I’m sure the weather forecasters would be giving up soon! Till we meet again guys!

Keeping the brain functioning: How the Quran saved my mind.

Before starting, I must apologise for the partially intended “clickbait” of a title. it is intended to continue with the topics last mentioned but I thought this point, being the reason why I wanted to mention the concept of religion and cognition, the anecdotal story related to standard psychological assessments carried out for any neurological conditions impacting the brain, really stood out for me after the realisation of its impact!

Always given but hardly ever worthy

In a world full of information that is easily accessible, people are prone to have partial knowledge about things and feel at liberty to ‘advise’ others accordingly. Most of the time, those words are futile and can do more harm than good. As mentioned somewhere previously ( I think) after my diagnosis, a friend and colleague of my father who was a consultant psychiatrist asked to speak with me when the diagnosis was shared with him. His advice; try to read a bit of the Quran every single day, you will see the benefit of it. I thought perhaps he meant on the basis of spirituality, but these were words that almost fifteen years on, from a completely non-religious point of view, I see how poignant and powerful they were and still are.

In 2022, after a realisation of possible psychological mishaps occurring in greater severity (forgetting keys in doors whilst leaving the house, or reacting in a completely abnormal way to sudden accidents that may have happened in front of me), and reporting such events to neuropsychiatry, a request for another cognitive assessment to be carried out to measure and observe decline or unusual changes since the time of diagnosis ( 12 years prior). The results surprised doctors including the consultant in charge of the entire neuropsychology department, stating; ” other than a few numbers more or less in the tests, pretty much exactly the same”, after the psychologist who had carried out the assessment stated they do expect all MSers to have declined in their ability but yours was only minimal. I had a look at the tests that are carried out and what cognitive functions are looked for, and I realised what had kept me in a cognitively healthy state when I had only thought my abilities and skills had gone to waste. The practice of attempting to reciting the Quran regularly, technically a brain exercise encompassing everything that is studied and more, simultaneously engaging every lobe of the brain and enhancing a person’s emotional state and mental clarity.

From a young age, from centuries till the current day, my family and community learned and engaged in the recitation of the Quran. When in primary school, teachers were surprised at our ability to understand and pick up the basics of the English language and every single person I know who had this upbringing excelled in their studies and those who were consistent in their practice of reciting the Quran displayed great cognitive ability in their secular studies and qualifications since. Even those who may have never been extremely fluent in their abilities, still display such cognitive benefits. Because, the effort and training of such a skill, had such an impact on the brain to grow and expand in such tenacious ways.

Although there would be different fields of how the brain is impacted by the Quran being recited, it can serve as a cognitive exercise in several ways:

Linguistic complexity:

The Quran is written in classical Arabic, which is known for its rich vocabulary, intricate grammatical structures, and poetic beauty. Engaging with the Quranic text requires active mental effort to understand and interpret its meaning. This linguistic complexity acts as a cognitive exercise, challenging individuals to analyze sentence structures, decipher metaphors, and explore the depths of the language.

How many would remember their teachers stressing how to pronounce certain letters in our youth days!

Pronunciation of words and letters would require and enhance numerous functions and parts of the brain, with the Arabic language being very fragile in the sense that slight mispronunciations can alter the meanings of words and this would be counterintuitive for anyone wanting to recite the Quran! The practice of reciting in a pleasant and cohesive tone, needing to see clearly the different letters and punctuation symbols, and listening carefully to ensure words are recited properly, would mean an intense brain workout!

The neurological damage that did and is expected to impact abilities related to speech in a physically coherent manner was impacted by my effort to relearn and keep up with the ability and practice of reciting the Quran after explicit damage to my facial nerves had occurred back in 2013, I realised now how it had helped me and continues to help me be able to speak and use vocal abilities in an understandable way. The rich ability and skills required to recite the Quran in classic Arabic would require such physical functions to be able to use verbal functions in a clear and earnest way.

Reflection and contemplation:

The Quran encourages believers to reflect deeply on its verses, pondering their meanings and implications. This practice of reflection and contemplation exercises cognitive processes such as analysis, synthesis, and critical thinking. It prompts individuals to make connections between different concepts, interpret metaphors and parables, and extract lessons and wisdom from the text.

Although the majority of Muslims may not understand the classic Arabic language (if they did, they’d be drowning in an ocean of cognitive stimuli), basic knowledge is obtained, and enough to have a profound impact. Knowing of anecdotal stories or events mentioned can be emotionally beneficial and also link to historical, geographical, and social events in a person’s mind, and knowledge of exegesis present in books or explained in lessons only further boost the linking of knowledge existent or obtained in the mind.

For example; the story of the prophet Ayyub ( Job) peace be upon him, is mentioned to the extent of his words of supplication when he had reached an extremely burdensome state and being given a reputable position due to his resilience and perseverance always stands out for me, knowing of the story of his life from numerous other sources (from Islamic literature or even stories mentioned by other Abrahamic faiths) and his mentality through his severe illness and difficulties, gives me hope and inspiration, an example to follow and believe that any difficulty experienced would not be pointless, and hope to maintain similar mindsets and practices in hope to be a worthy person like him when we all reach the end of our lives. This intense range of mental responses is caused, resulting in the brain reacting greatly and thus keeping the brain functioning! Although there are numerous verses relating to the topic of difficulty and struggle that stand out to others, this is only one of many that I find relatable.

Memorisation:

Memorising verses from the Quran is a common practice among Muslims, and it involves intense cognitive engagement. Memorisation requires focused attention, repetition, and the use of various memory techniques. This process exercises the brain’s capacity to retain and recall information, strengthening memory skills and enhancing cognitive functioning.

Every Muslim would throughout their lives memorise and recite portions of the Quran. This would greatly benefit their visual memory ability, most Muslims are able to picture what they recite from memory in their minds, to the extent of where each verse may be on the page. Some extraordinary examples of being able to remember from the numbers of the verse!

This being a very extensive topic, I think it’ll be ideal to separate it into different posts, although at times I may only recite even just one verse in a day of the Quran, I see the impact it has had and hope it in numerous ways continues to be a habit I can abide to and benefit from in ways in more than to the brain!

As the BBQs are only slowly being rolled out with the sun still seeming to be shying away a bit, hope to see you soon guys and as always, hope this holds benefit and till we meet again for the rest!

Keeping the brain functioning: Islam and the brain.

Islam, as a religion, can potentially benefit cognition in several ways. It is important to note that the specific benefits can vary from person to person based on their beliefs, practices, and individual experiences. Here are a few potential ways in which Islam may positively influence cognition:

Spiritual Well-being:

Islam provides a comprehensive framework for spiritual development. Engaging in Islamic practices such as prayer, recitation of the Quran, and reflection on religious teachings can promote a sense of spiritual well-being and connection with a higher power. This can enhance cognitive processes by providing a source of comfort, inner peace, and emotional stability.

There are different acts of worship in the fold of Islam, all focused on the worship of one supreme being, what is in a person’s heart is usually displayed in their speech. When I was younger and till this day, I see and hear elderly members (stereotypically) of the Muslim faith, calling out phrases they would have recited in their daily prayer at times of struggle or before commencing an action, albeit something very small ( like “oh my lord”)in numerous different languages, and have found it to almost give them unseen assistance to complete things and also being an emotional and spiritual booster. This practice would be using numerous parts and functions of the brain and in doing so displays a multitude of benefits.

At times of worry or difficulty performing stereotypically basic things ( having a shower, getting up the stairs, into bed, going to the toilet), this coincides with “speaking well to yourself” and even to the extent of being in a restroom but feeling reassured as reminders are voiced to oneself, “your lord helped, my lord will help, it was made to be ok, it will be ok). Concurring with most acts of worship which intend to, and ultimately develop and “awareness of God”)

The practice of ‘remembering God’ through repetition of certain phrases numerous times and counting at the same time, similar to the use of the rosary beads used by those of Catholic faith, the constant personal reminder instills the presence of God in one’s heart and mind. In a discussion on this topic with my dear teacher, they shared how in their younger days, the mentality of the phrase “Let go, let god” was their mindset and which played as a great explanation of the mentality developed by many people of the Muslim faith when things seem out of control. A mindset of completely placing their trust and reliance on God.

Mental Discipline:

Islam encourages regular prayer, fasting during Ramadan, and adherence to religious obligations. These practices require mental discipline, self-control, and focus. Engaging in disciplined activities can strengthen cognitive abilities such as attention, self-regulation, and willpower.

With the daily schedule that is adhered to, a strict system is always kept in place when practiced upon. Regardless of emotional or mental disarray, it will assist in maintaining stability in a person’s life and thus reducing further stress that would be deleterious to the brain.

Intellectual Stimulation:

Islamic teachings encourage seeking knowledge and understanding the world. The Quran emphasizes the importance of reflection, critical thinking, and intellectual exploration. Engaging with Islamic scholarship and studying religious texts can stimulate cognitive processes, including analytical thinking, reasoning skills, and expanding knowledge.

At the time of my diagnosis in 2010 and commencing college, me and a group of friends regularly attended a weekly class about historical, modern-day, and future events along with the opportunity to ask and listen to a range of questions from an experienced and knowledgeable teacher. One who had not only studied a large portion of their lives, but travelled to and lived in different parts of the world. These classes/ talks would usually contain verses or sayings in the Arabic language and sometimes other languages too. The ability to sit and listen to things that are explained and discussed from a religious, historical, political, and personal point of view would be very fruitful for the mind, with different parts of the brain absorbing information in synchrony.

Whenever numerous parts of the brain are used in memory, the ability and longevity is enhanced. People native to the eastern side of the world have a reputation for being able to pick up knowledge quite quickly and expansively (not abnormal to be fluent in numerous different languages amongst the majority of residents based there). The languages spoken there are ones that have an extreme emphasis on the tone and pitch of words, this would be using both the left( associated with language skills and auditory stimuli) and the right ( known to be responsible for attention, memory, reasoning, and problem-solving) sides of the brain, simultaneously being able to use numerous parts of the brain and boosting cognitive processes.

To explain this; generally speaking, men forget about things they see as petty and inadequate; the age of their kids, anniversary dates, shopping lists, and things like such. This is because women tend to think with emotion and men think logically. Using numerous parts of the brain, and a reason why I shouldn’t forget or be surprised that women never forget the mistakes a man would make!

Moral Development:

Islam provides a moral and ethical framework based on its teachings and principles. Emphasizing virtues such as honesty, compassion, justice, and social responsibility, Islam encourages adherents to develop and practice ethical behavior. Reflecting on moral values and engaging in ethical decision-making can contribute to cognitive growth and moral development.

In the context of MS, there are numerous possible unexpected stressors that would naturally alter a person’s psychology. Sometimes effects of medication or cognitive damage can lead to a person displaying and experiencing a complete change of character. Being able to adhere to such principles not only allows a person who may go through such a phase to ensure and understand how to keep up good mannerisms with others and if any sudden abnormalities occur whether themselves or others are able to spot this and alert those who are in charge of an MSers medical care.

When I first received comments from others about me saying things that were a bit ‘awkward’ or ‘rude’ without my realisation. After mentioning this to a nurse, I was immediately referred to be seen by a therapist who explained why and how these things may happen after cognitive damage has occurred and how to understand and cope with any such outbursts (disinhibition, which was mentioned in a blog some time back).

Akin to this aspect and the general awareness and Godly connection, even looking in the mirror coincides with this aspect of our morality, profoundly phrased ( pictured above).

Community and Social Engagement:

Islam places a strong emphasis on community and social cohesion. Muslims often come together for communal prayers, celebrations, and charitable activities. Engaging in social interactions within the Muslim community can foster a sense of belonging, social support, and a strong sense of identity. These factors can positively impact mental health and cognitive abilities.

Humans are social creatures and I enjoy discussing and spending time with others ( though my mum does call me a gossip grandad for it!). By regularly attending communal events and meeting up with or making new friends, through the odd chat with them, going for a dessert or cup of tea. Not only would be using the brain ( to talk and listen!) but have psychological benefits, nobody likes to be lonely, and generally speaking there is always a ‘family-like’ community amongst local Muslim circles. Generally, I am very talkative, trying to laugh and joke, I do try and end up befriending a lot of fellow Muslims in such events and it always keeps me and others cognitively active ( talking too much in my case!) and this would without need of explanation be of benefit as it engages numerous parts of the brain!

All these mental and physical practices are in cohesion with the habits that are advised to be acted upon regularly to ‘keep the brain functioning’.

It is important to recognize that the benefits of Islam on cognition are not universal and can vary among individuals. Additionally, cognitive benefits can arise from both religious beliefs and secular practices. It’s also worth noting that while there can be positive effects, there may be potential challenges or limitations depending on individual interpretations, cultural contexts, and personal experiences.

I must reiterate, this is based on my own personal experiences and what I have seen in my life, just in case an extreme far-right activist starts a tirade on my post, accusing me of ‘coming to their country, developing their conditions and islamafiscing them!’ ( MS is usually a condition absent in the majority Musllim, eastern countries).

Suns out and also with the odd random bursts of rain, British weather at its best! Till we meet again guys!

Keeping the brain functioning: Faith and cognition.

To start with an intro and a slight disclaimer surrounding the topic of religion, beliefs, and actions. Since my childhood, I have been brought up and to the best of my ability try to abide by being a Muslim. I do not class myself as an exemplar or a person fit to be seen as a role model (if it wasn’t known by others I have MS, I’m sure they’d assume I was drunk with the way I walk!) and I would respect and value the beliefs or mentality of others. As I have aged and experienced all stages of my journey with MS, I have found it to really help me to understand, cope and get through the challenges that were presented in the journey we call life. Faith is something that many may feel is essential to living their lives by, even though it may not be explicitly seen or measured in a scientifically plausible way, it can be just like WiFi which most would find hard to live without now!

The link between faith and cognition is a complex and multifaceted topic that has been explored from various perspectives within psychology, philosophy, and religious studies. While different scholars and theorists may have differing views, I can provide you with a general understanding of the connection between faith and cognition.

Cognition refers to the mental processes involved in acquiring, processing, and organizing knowledge, including perception, memory, attention, reasoning, and problem-solving. Faith, on the other hand, generally refers to a belief or trust in something or someone, often associated with religious or spiritual beliefs.

The relationship between faith and cognition can be examined in several ways:

Belief formation:

Cognition plays a crucial role in the formation of religious and spiritual beliefs. People rely on cognitive processes, such as perception, memory, and reasoning, to interpret and make sense of their religious experiences, scriptures, teachings, and traditions. These cognitive processes shape their beliefs and contribute to the development of faith. In the Bible it mentions “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.” And similarly in the Torah “Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” ( Deuteronomy 31:6 ).” Many Muslims resort to and find verses from the Quran or sayings of the prophet Muhammad (PBUH) that offer explanations for their struggles and offer a cover and a drive to keep resilient and a reason to never give up. One such verse I felt comfort in at the initial diagnosis and struggle in my MS life is mentioned above, knowing and believing thus that no matter how hard things may seem, they will never be beyond my scope.

Cognitive biases and religious beliefs:

Cognitive biases, such as confirmation bias (the tendency to interpret information in a way that confirms pre-existing beliefs) and attribution bias (the tendency to attribute events to specific causes), can influence the formation and maintenance of religious beliefs. These biases can shape how individuals interpret religious texts, experiences, and evidence, reinforcing their existing faith or leading them to acquire new beliefs. In religious scriptures, there are many prophetic stories and what they had experienced that people with a religious background can relate to and learn lessons from which aid in their survival when things seem pretty impossible. This would conform with a religious belief and thus be engaging cognition and thus strengthening neuronal connections and pathways and subsequently keeping a person psychologically firm and not falling into any state of despair.

In the famous story of the prophet Moses (PBUH) when fleeing the pharaoh and his army, when reaching the sea as stated in the Quran;  the companions of Moses cried out, “We are overtaken for sure.” his response was “Absolutely not! My Lord is certainly with me—He will guide me.” At many moments in a medically impacted journey, things seem not possible but the story of the sea being split serves as hope and inspiration for when things really do feel like being in such a state. When I was first taken into the hospital as an emergency patient, I hadn’t known much about the story but I was able to resonate with faith and hope that ‘everything would be ok’.

Meaning-making and coherence:

Faith can provide individuals with a framework for interpreting and understanding the world, offering explanations for existential questions and providing a sense of purpose and meaning. Cognition plays a role in this process by helping individuals construct coherent narratives and mental models that make sense of their beliefs and experiences. Many people regardless of religious background or belief, tend to either become more inclined to their faith and religious practice or the complete opposite and feel there to be no worth in their difficulty and their lives because of the struggle, this would be linear with religious beliefs and practice. This is due to their religious knowledge and environment providing an explanation for what they may be suffering with.

Being able to meet and converse with a fellow MSer some years ago, a man who had accepted the uncertainty and difficulty of living with such a condition but was adamant against the concept and idea of a religious belief. When the extreme possibilities were discussed and mentioned, the prospect of becoming completely handicapped ( they lived with primary progressive MS and this is highly likely to occur) their response was that they felt they would know when it will be time to go and were keen on the idea of pursuing euthanasia ( a contentious topic that would be explored in the future!). Their mentality; if I am of no ability and use then we only live once so might as well end any suffering early. This is obviously not a mindset shared by all but indicated the gap and the impact the religious base had.

Cognitive flexibility:

While faith can provide a sense of stability and certainty, cognitive flexibility is also important in adapting and adjusting one’s beliefs in light of new information or experiences. Individuals with strong faith may engage in cognitive processes that accommodate new knowledge while maintaining their core beliefs, leading to a more nuanced and sophisticated understanding of their faith. In the context of Multiple Sclerosis, being a condition that has no set pathway and every day can be different. Having the belief system allows one to remain stable and keep their ‘mind over the matter’. A sudden relapse, further damage, progression, and bad news from medical professionals, understandably would lead to emotional turmoil, but the foundation that religion offers places that safety blanket and literally aids in avoiding a person going crazy!

I personally know of people who hold their faith very strongly and they have surprised their medical team when almost being prepared for and accepting very unfortunate news that many would find very difficult to accept. Being told there is nothing that can be done to aid them or their condition has advanced to a stage where there are no medical treatments available. Their mindset being an inspiration for me by being able to remain stable regardless of the onset or information that would usually leave a person in a state of anguish.

It is important to note that the relationship between faith and cognition is complex and can vary among individuals and across different religious and cultural contexts. The way cognition influences faith and vice versa can differ depending on personal beliefs, religious traditions, and individual cognitive abilities and inclinations. Just as a mind would need a skull to occupy and a body to be part of, faith can analogically be seen as a ship on the water, keeping everything inside afloat through all types of seasons, be it rain or sun.

The anecdotes and examples mentioned above in an attempt to display the different benefits of faith on the mind, all display one thing; the mind being used to think further, whether by needing to read, research, contemplate, think further or contextualise, and thus different components of the brain forming together creating new nerve connections and opposing the natural death of nerve cells in the brain. The belief in religion provides further psychological, mental, and emotional avenues that are explored and acted upon and thus ensuring psychological security that in itself would keep the mind at bay from further decline as when we are in a state of agony, our bodies only become in more of a state of disarray by releasing chemicals that would damage the body if present for an extended time.

This post was intended to be an insight and a basis for the idea of faith and cognition, in the next post, I intend to use my experiences, religious beliefs, and the cognitive advice mentioned in the last post and discuss how common practices in religion, and how they all interwind with each other and the outcome that has been experienced and realised! As this is a very in-depth topic and if it does get too much information, I will try to split the posts accordingly!

Although we do live in a world where faith is seen as much of a fallacy with the idea of science being able to explain everything, especially as my posts do revolve around scientific explanations, faith is what keeps many people going through their struggles, something attested by my own neuropsychiatrist. The words (pictured above) of Albert Einstein that science and faith coincide with each other and the of the well-known psychologist Carl Jung, remain very profound; “I could not say I believe. I know” illustrating a mindset that has the cognitive benefit that is based on ‘faith’ and Einstein’s comment demonstrating that there is a need for a balance of both ideologies to maintain stability. Much more can be stated in relation to this topic but as a brief mention of the impact of religious belief on cognition I feel from a personal point and for many others, each to their own with their beliefs but this post hopefully highlights and displays the impact of the presence of a core principled belief system.

Till we meet again guys, I think I already have a bit of a tan soaking in the sun for the vitamin D, but enjoy it whilst is last and have fun in the sun!