Ego reclamation might sound contradictory to Islamic spiritual teachings, yet for Muslim women, it represents a critical step toward mental health and authentic faith. This episode challenges conventional wisdom about ego work by introducing a revolutionary concept: ego as a tool that can be picked up when needed and put down when not.

Drawing from Islamic spiritual tradition, we explore the three states of nafs (ego) - the commanding self that urges toward sin, the reproaching self that swings between mistakes and regret, and the tranquil self in a state of peace. What if developing a healthy ego doesn't make you a selfish Muslim woman, but instead anchors you more firmly in your faith?

The dominant spiritual language around ego - crushing it, controlling it, suppressing it - was primarily designed for men's spiritual struggles. For women already socialized to erase themselves, this approach causes harm rather than healing. When a Muslim woman struggles with voicelessness, people-pleasing, or hyper-responsibility, the solution isn't further ego diminishment but thoughtful reclamation. This episode distinguishes between true humility and ongoing humiliation, clarifying that submission in Islam means erasing yourself before Allah alone - not before other people.

Discover how to discern when to strengthen your ego (setting boundaries, speaking up) versus when to dissolve it (in prayer, deep connection). A woman grounded in her values through a healthy ego becomes difficult to mistreat - not because she's confrontational, but because she's anchored in a dignity that recognizes manipulation and shame for what they are. Join us as we explore this path to mental health that honors both your personhood and your faith commitment.

To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, open the app and go to the show's page by searching for it or finding it in your library. Scroll down to the "Ratings & Reviews" section, tap "Write a Review," then give it a star rating, write your title and review, and tap "Send"