The Influence of Dhikr on Decreased Stress Levels in the Elderly with Hypertension in the Village of Johor Medan Building

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 14 views

The Influence of Dhikr on Decreased Stress Levels in the Elderly with Hypertension in the Village of Johor Medan Building

Introduction

Hypertension is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and stress is a significant factor contributing to this condition. When individuals experience stress, their bodies respond by releasing the hormone adrenaline, which can increase blood pressure. Recent research has shown that the practice of dhikr, which involves mentioning the name of Allah SWT, can be an effective method of relaxation. Dhikr not only calms the mind but also affects the body's nervous system, reducing the secretion of cortisol hormones, which play a role in stress. This article aims to explore the effect of dhikr on decreased stress levels in the elderly suffering from hypertension in the village of Johor, Medan.

The Importance of Stress Reduction in the Elderly

As people age, they often experience various pressures, both physically and mentally. Stress reduction is essential for maintaining mental and physical health in the elderly. Chronic stress can lead to a range of negative consequences, including anxiety, depression, and cardiovascular disease. In the context of hypertension, stress reduction is particularly crucial, as it can contribute to better hypertensive management. Social interaction, community support, and spiritual activities such as dhikr can strengthen a sense of connection and emotional support in the elderly, ultimately improving overall health outcomes.

The Role of Dhikr in Stress Reduction

Dhikr is a spiritual practice that involves mentioning the name of Allah SWT. It is a form of meditation that can calm the mind and affect the body's nervous system. By reducing the secretion of cortisol hormones, dhikr can help alleviate stress and anxiety. In the context of hypertension, dhikr can be a valuable tool for managing stress and improving overall health outcomes. The practice of dhikr is highly recommended as an effort to reduce the incidence of stress and high blood pressure in the elderly.

Methodology

This study employed a pre-experimental design with a one-group pretest-posttest design. The sampling technique used was purposive sampling, with 18 respondents. To analyze the data, a paired test was used. The results of the paired test showed a significant effect of the practice of dhikr on decreased stress levels in the elderly with hypertension.

Results

The results of the paired test test showed a P value of 0.001, indicating a significant effect of the practice of dhikr on decreased stress levels in the elderly with hypertension. This means that after performing dhikr activities, respondents experienced a significant decline in their stress levels. The findings of this study suggest that dhikr can be an effective method for reducing stress and improving overall health outcomes in the elderly with hypertension.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of dhikr as an alternative for stress management in the elderly with hypertension. The practice of dhikr can be a valuable tool for reducing stress and improving overall health outcomes. As we get older, many elderly people experience various pressures, both physically and mentally. Therefore, interventions such as dhikr can be an effective way to improve their quality of life without requiring a large cost. It is essential to encourage the elderly around us to spend time doing dhikr as one way to maintain their mental and physical health.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations can be made:

The practice of dhikr should be promoted as a method for reducing stress and improving overall health outcomes in the elderly with hypertension.
Healthcare providers should consider incorporating dhikr into their treatment plans for patients with hypertension.
Community-based programs should be established to promote dhikr as a method for stress reduction and overall health improvement.
Further research should be conducted to explore the effects of dhikr on stress reduction and overall health outcomes in the elderly with hypertension.

Limitations

This study had several limitations, including:

The small sample size, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
The use of a pre-experimental design, which may not be as robust as other research designs.
The lack of control group, which may limit the ability to determine the causal relationship between dhikr and stress reduction.

Future Directions

Future research should aim to explore the effects of dhikr on stress reduction and overall health outcomes in the elderly with hypertension. This may involve:

Conducting larger-scale studies to determine the generalizability of the findings.
Using more robust research designs, such as randomized controlled trials.
Exploring the effects of dhikr on other health outcomes, such as anxiety and depression.

Conclusion

Q: What is dhikr, and how does it help with stress reduction?

A: Dhikr is a spiritual practice that involves mentioning the name of Allah SWT. It is a form of meditation that can calm the mind and affect the body's nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety.

Q: How does dhikr affect the body's nervous system?

A: Dhikr can affect the body's nervous system by reducing the secretion of cortisol hormones, which play a role in stress. It can also calm the mind and promote relaxation, leading to a decrease in stress levels.

Q: Can anyone practice dhikr, or is it limited to Muslims?

A: Dhikr is a spiritual practice that can be practiced by anyone, regardless of their faith or background. However, it is rooted in Islamic tradition and is often practiced by Muslims as a way to connect with Allah SWT.

Q: How often should I practice dhikr to see benefits?

A: The frequency of dhikr practice can vary depending on individual needs and goals. However, regular practice, even just a few minutes a day, can be beneficial for stress reduction and overall well-being.

Q: Can dhikr be practiced in conjunction with other stress-reducing techniques?

A: Yes, dhikr can be practiced in conjunction with other stress-reducing techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. Combining different practices can help individuals achieve greater benefits and improve overall well-being.

Q: Are there any specific dhikr practices that are recommended for stress reduction?

A: Yes, there are several dhikr practices that are recommended for stress reduction, including:

Reciting the name of Allah SWT, such as "Allah" or "Subhanallah"
Reciting the Quran, such as Surah Al-Fatihah or Surah Al-Baqarah
Performing dhikr with the heart, such as focusing on the meaning of the words or the emotions they evoke

Q: Can dhikr be practiced in a group setting?

A: Yes, dhikr can be practiced in a group setting, such as in a mosque or a community center. Group practice can be beneficial for social support and motivation, and can help individuals stay committed to their practice.

Q: Are there any potential risks or side effects associated with dhikr?

A: Dhikr is generally considered a safe and beneficial practice. However, as with any spiritual or meditation practice, individuals may experience emotional or psychological reactions, such as feelings of sadness or anxiety. If these reactions occur, it is recommended to seek guidance from a spiritual leader or mental health professional.

Q: Can dhikr be practiced by individuals with mental health conditions?

A: Yes, dhikr can be practiced by individuals with mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression. However, it is recommended to consult with a mental health professional before starting a new practice, especially if you have a history of mental health issues.

Q: How can I incorporate dhikr into my daily routine?

A: Incorporating dhikr into your daily routine can be as simple as setting aside a few minutes each day to practice. You can try:

Starting your day with a short dhikr practice
Practicing dhikr during breaks at work or school
Incorporating dhikr into your bedtime routine to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality

Q: Can dhikr be practiced by individuals who are not Muslim?

A: Yes, dhikr can be practiced by individuals who are not Muslim. While dhikr is rooted in Islamic tradition, its benefits can be experienced by anyone, regardless of their faith or background.