By Shazzy Thary
In today’s hyper-connected world our devices have become constant companions. They help us pray on time, learn Qur’an online, connect with loved ones and even earn a living. Yet they can also be sources of distraction, comparison and exhaustion. Many of us have found ourselves scrolling late into the night, consuming more content than our hearts can hold and feeling spiritually and emotionally drained as a result.
As Muslims we are called to live in balance. Allah says in the Qur’an: “And thus We have made you a just community” (2:143). This “just” or “balanced” approach applies to every part of our lives including how we interact with technology.
Recognising the Signs of Digital Fatigue
It is easy to overlook the subtle ways our devices affect us. Perhaps our salah feels rushed because we answered “just one more message.” Maybe we compare our lives to curated images on social media which leaves us feeling inadequate. Or perhaps constant notifications make it hard to be present with family, friends or even with ourselves. These are signs that our relationship with technology might need a reset.
Prophetic Guidance for the Modern Age
The Prophet ﷺ modelled intentional living. He used his time with purpose, was fully present in conversations and prioritised moments of quiet reflection. While smartphones did not exist in his time the principle of being mindful and intentional is timeless. If he was speaking to us today perhaps he would remind us that our phones should serve us, not control us.
Practical Faith-Based Tech Habits
1. Set Your Niyyah (Intention) – Before opening an app ask yourself: Why am I here? If the answer does not serve your faith, wellbeing or relationships consider stepping away.
2. Create Digital Rest Periods (Sukūn) – Choose specific times each day to disconnect. Even 30 minutes without devices after Fajr or before bed can bring peace and presence.
3. Make the First and Last Moments of the Day Dhikr – Resist the urge to check your phone upon waking or before sleeping. Begin and end with remembrance of Allah.
4. Curate Your Digital Space – Follow accounts that uplift you spiritually, emotionally and mentally. Unfollow anything that fuels envy, anger or distraction.
A Path Back to Presence
Technology is neither friend nor foe. It is a tool. When we use it mindfully with gratitude and restraint it can enrich our lives without consuming them. By setting clear boundaries, grounding our online presence in Islamic principles and remembering that every moment is a trust from Allah we can create a healthier and more intentional relationship with our devices.
Perhaps the real question we can ask ourselves is this: When I put my phone down am I more connected to Allah, to people and to my own heart than I was before? If the answer is yes then our technology is serving us well.
About the Author:
Shazzy Tharby is a Muslim therapist, advocate and educator specialising in neurodiversity, disability and mental health. Through her practice, Positively Living (www.positivelyliving.com.au) she is passionate about creating accessible and affirming spaces for all.
You can contact Shazzy at: Positivelyliving@protonmail.com or see her profile at: https://cmw.org.au/profile/shazzytharby/
