Benefits of Sajda (Prostration)

Sajda (Prostration) is the action performed by every muslim (one who submits to the will and command of the One and Only Allah, God) in his daily prayers (swalaat). Prostration, in which the forehead touches the ground, is a unique form of prayer which Allah loves most for a muslim is nearest to Allah while in this position.

Besides the spiritual aspects, we'll look at the physical and psychological ones:

1. This brings most of the body muscles if not all in active motion and serves to give them some exercise. The hands are then specifically stretched out and thence the forearm as well as arm muscles are supposed to bear the weight in the Sajda (Prostration) position. It gives good exercise to the muscles of the upper limb.
2. Sajda (Prostration) is a unique position as this is the only position in which brain (or head) becomes lower than the heart and hence for the first time the blood gushes towards the brain with full force whereas in all other positions (even when lying) brain is above the heart when it has to work against gravity to send blood to the brain. In the position of Sajda (Prostration) due to the increased blood supply the brain receive more nourishment and it has good effect upon memory, vision, hearing, concentration, psyche and all other cognitive abilities.
3. While in Sajda (Prostration) the neck muscles get best exercise. They have to bear the load when the forehead lies at the ground hence the neck muscles become stronger. One can note the tense pressure at the neck muscles in the position of Sajda (Prostration) specially the active motion of the neck and the facial muscles when the head is being lifted. (e.g. one inch above the ground) and it will be noticed that they are in a very active motion.
4. This is a great psychological advantage and it gives relief to the person concerned as life is full of worries and in this position he gets at least a transient refuge from the agonizing problems.
5. People who offer their prayers regularly have more will power and can cope with the difficulties of life in a much better manner. They have less incidence of headaches, psychological problems and other defects of cognitive function.

Even though prayer is not meant as being an exercise, one cannot ignore the medical advantages associated with it. But the best blessing is the peace of mind acquired by a person who fulfills his obligations towards Allah and obeys to His commands to the best of his capability.