Page 87 - IJPS-11-5

International Journal of
Population Studies Therapeutic resilience during COVID-19

community’s perspective on utilizing food as a form of throughout the extended lockdowns. Specifically, the
medicine, which is a concept passed down from previous Islamic teachings emphasized the importance of depending
generations. Specifically, the selenium and magnesium on Allah, while also utilizing available resources for
content in bone broth helps reduce inflammation, which protection and prevention. Similarly, the guidance of the
played a vital role in managing post-COVID-19 recovery. Prophet Muhammad to limit movement during periods of
This cultural practice also enhanced formal health illness, refrain from social interactions, and reduce travel
interventions, demonstrating the important role of cultural served as essential principles for Muslims navigating the
resilience in such recovery (Melissa et al., 2021). difficulties posed by COVID-19 (Osei-Tutu et al., 2021;
Piwko, 2021). In addition, Shariah underscored the
Finally, the incorporation of herbal supplements and
probiotics alongside traditional food practices was an importance of preserving life and faith, which was evident
in the measures implemented by Islamic communities to
additional dimension of traditional healing in Faisalabad. control the spread of the virus while following religious
The significance of probiotics in supporting gut health guidelines.
and the immune system was notably highlighted by
the participants. Meanwhile, herbal remedies, such as Interestingly, Islamic teachings have consistently
turmeric, quercetin, and ginger, were frequently utilized highlighted the importance of hygiene and cleanliness,
for their anti-inflammatory properties. In particular, the which are practices that are strongly aligned with
participants cited turmeric (in the form of curcumin) as contemporary public health guidelines. Moreover, ritual
an integral component of their recovery regimen. These ablutions (mandated before daily prayers) underscored the
traditional practices, linked to cultural and practical health significance of cleanliness, an essential factor in controlling
benefits, were also essential in managing stress, sleep infectious diseases such as COVID-19. Even from the era
disturbances, and immune responses during the pandemic of the Prophet Muhammad, the Islamic teachings offered
(Melissa et al., 2021). practical guidance on avoiding regions impacted by
disease, a principle that is still relevant in contemporary
In sum, the consumption of specific foods and herbal times. These fundamental aspects of faith significantly
remedies not only addressed the physical symptoms of influenced the ways in which communities addressed
the illness but also provided psychological support during health and disease prevention throughout the pandemic
the pandemic. This application of traditional medicine (Lone, 2018; Piwko, 2021).
and food, as a means of cultural resilience, underscores
the connection between health, culture, and survival, Overall, there is a significant connection between religious
especially in resource-limited regions. This integrative practices and beliefs and the ways in which communities
approach also highlights the adaptability and resilience of managed the challenges posed by the pandemic. In this
the communities in Faisalabad during the crisis. regard, the Islamic teachings offered a structured approach
for individuals and families to navigate the psychological
3.4. Spiritual healing and coping strategies for and social challenges posed by the lockdowns, illness, and
dealing with COVID-19’s uncertainties uncertainty. Meanwhile, the religious rituals, along with
Despite advancements in scientific medicine, spiritual the focus on hygiene and spiritual resilience, effectively
healing continues to be a significant practice for many addressed physical health, while also mitigating the mental
communities, especially where traditional beliefs are impact of the pandemic. In Faisalabad, faith emerged as a
essential to daily life. According to Jawaid (2020), religious significant instrument in addressing the public health crisis,
values and practices shape individuals’ perspectives on highlighting the necessity of incorporating religious and
health as well as their approaches to seeking care, adhering cultural insights into comprehensive health strategies (Al
to medical treatments, and interpreting their experiences Eid & Arnout, 2020).
with illness. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, In the present study, the participants, predominantly
numerous followers of Islam sought comfort in their faith, including those who identified as Muslims, expressed the
utilizing it as a means to navigate the uncertainty and lack belief that spiritual conviction has the potential to facilitate
of control over their situations. healing in individuals. Such examples are as follows. First,

Religious coping mechanisms, especially those a 36-year-old woman working as a housekeeper stated:
grounded in Islamic teachings, also emerged as a significant God possesses absolute authority over all things, and
form of cultural resilience during the pandemic. In this in the event that He was to subject us to a test, we would
case, the principles of Islam, as detailed in the Qur’an and assuredly encounter severe affliction in the form of a
Hadith, offered frameworks for addressing the crisis and debilitating illness. If not, then the COVID-19 virus lacks
provided emotional, psychological, and spiritual support the ability to cause harm to individuals.

Volume 11 Issue 5 (2025) 81 https://doi.org/10.36922/ijps.4109