Did you know that our Holy Prophet (SAW) had a zen den? Even before the first words of the noble Qur’an were revealed to him, he used to spend hours in a quiet place a few miles away from Mecca.

This special space was called the Cave of Hira. There, he could take a break from the distractions of life and focus only on Allah (SWT).

Since we follow the sunnah of the Holy Prophet (SAW), we should also have a special space to remember Allah (SWT). Read on to learn how you can create your own zen den, and then share it with us!

Getting Started: Activity Details

Age: This Islamic activity is suitable for 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8-year-olds.

Time: This activity should take roughly 20-30 minutes.

Part One - Explain the Activity

• Share the story of how our beloved Prophet (SAW) used to retreat to the Cave of Hira in order to practice mindfulness.
• Give examples of times in your own day when you take a break and find space to think about Allah (SWT).
• Discuss ideas for creating a space within your home/child’s room that will serve as a “zen den” for the family/child.

Part Two - Get Inspiration

• Check out these inspiration photos to start brainstorming what the zen den could look like. 
• You can also do some more research online or in home decor magazines.

Part Three - Design Your Own Zen Den

• Review the following list of tips:

1. Remove all screens
2. Place something soft at your feet
3. Choose earthy colors, and/or light blues and greens
4. Keep it simple (furniture, decorations)
5. Use soft, natural light
6. Use natural scents (calming ones like lavender, jasmine, etc) - electric oil warmers or essential oil diffuser
7. Add a plant
8. Make it comfy (pillows, blanket, cozy chair)
9. Keep things that remind you of Allah (SWT) (prayer rug, calligraphy/art, tasbeeh)
10. Place a notebook and pen/pencil for jotting down ideas and thoughts
11. Add some natural accents (smooth stones, pinecones, seashells, etc)
12. Get a white noise machine (or relaxing sounds like water trickling/bubbling, ocean waves gently crashing, crickets chirping, Qur’an recitation, etc)
13. If it’s only part of a room, use light and natural fabrics to create a separation (teepee, curtain, etc)
14. Personalize it (things that help you feel calm and happy)
15. Keep it clean

• Using some blank paper, sketch out your zen den.

Part Four - Gather Supplies and Create Your Space

• Find things you already own (or make your own DIY projects if you’re feeling inspired!) to add to your zen den.
• Create your space!

Part Five - Share Your Results

Send us a picture or video of your zen den, and we will post it to our social media outlets. Have fun!

Sana Aaser
Education Director, Noor Kids

 
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References:

https://www.cosmickids.com/tag/zen-den/

https://freshome.com/2012/12/31/how-to-make-your-home-totally-zen-in-10-steps/

https://dengarden.com/home-improvement/Ten-Things-to-Make-Your-Bedroom-More-Peaceful