With the shorter days of winter approaching, many of us feel the shift – fewer hours of daylight, colder mornings, and a natural slowing that encourages us to cherish moments with loved ones. But within the quiet of this season lies an opportunity for spiritual renewal. Islam encourages believers to recognise the beauty and purpose in every season, and winter, though often somber, carries its own blessings.
Winter: The ‘Spring of the Believer’
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ described winter as “the springtime of the believer” – a time when fasting is easier due to shorter days, and the nights are long enough for prayer and reflection. When the evening falls early, it invites us to soften our hearts, and seek closeness to Allah.
Making the Most of Longer Nights
1. Reviving Tahajjud
With nightfall arriving by late afternoon, the window between Isha and Fajr extends beautifully. Even waking briefly before dawn allows for quiet moments of Tahajjud – voluntary night prayer. You don’t need long recitations or elaborate routines; even two rak‘ahs prayed with sincerity can bring peace to the heart and barakah to the day ahead.
Set a simple goal: one or two nights a week, wake 30 minutes before Fajr. Keep a prayer mat ready by the heater. Pair this time with a short Qur’an recitation or dua for guidance and forgiveness.
2. Planning Around Prayer Times
In Britain’s winter months, Dhuhr and Asr come close together, making it easy to lose track of time. Using a digital reminder or prayer app can help structure your day – breaking work into mindful pauses.
Finding balance in routine
It’s easy to feel sluggish or low when days are grey. But Islam encourages rhythm and purpose – use the slower pace to build consistency:
- Begin mornings with a short dhikr or journaling session.
- Replace idle scrolling with Qur’an recitation or Islamic podcasts.
- Engage in sadaqah jariyah projects – supporting a local food bank or donating warm clothes.
The Comfort of Shukr
Winter invites shukr (thankfulness). The warmth of a coat, a meal shared, a heated room -these small comforts remind us of Allah’s mercy. Reflecting on blessings during the harsh weather, fosters contentment and empathy for those without such comforts.
Nurturing the Home as a Place of Noor (Light)
With more time indoors, the winter months become a haven for rememberance – an opportunity to build better habits during the longer evenings. Set small, meaningful goals – read a page of Qur’an daily, learn a short surah, or replace screen time with listening to beneficial talks.
Embracing Rest as Worship
Not every moment must be productive. Rest itself, when taken with intention, can be worship. Sleep early to wake for Fajr, eat nourishing foods, and care for your body -an amanah (trust) from Allah.
