Neuroplasticity and Faith: A Critical Review of Islamic Strategies for Rewiring the Traumatized Brain

Abstract: Trauma survivors often experience lasting neural disruptions, including hypervigilance, emotional dysregulation, and impaired social functioning. While conventional interventions focus on psychotherapy and pharmacology, Islamic spiritual practices such as Salah (prayer), Dhikr (remembrance of God), and Quranic visualization offer alternative mechanisms for neuroplastic recovery. This review explores how these practices, grounded in Islamic theology and neuroscience, may counteract trauma’s neurobiological and psychological effects. 

Reference: Ogunbona, N., Abdul-Azeez, T., Hayatudeen, N., & Abiola, T. (2025). Neuroplasticity and faith: A critical review of Islamic strategies for rewiring the traumatized brain. Iman Medical Journal, 11(1).