How to Increase Khushu in Salah: A Complete Guide for Muslims

Salah (prayer) is the most intimate connection a Muslim has with Allah ﷻ. Yet, many of us struggle with khushu — the deep, humble concentration and presence of heart that should characterize our worship. If your mind wanders during Salah or you feel disconnected, know that you're not alone — and more importantly, you can change.

Let’s explore how to increase khushu in your Salah and build a stronger spiritual bond with your Creator.

What is Khushu?

Khushu means inner calm, humility, and full focus during worship. It is not merely about outward stillness but about being present — spiritually and mentally — in front of Allah.

Allah says in the Qur’an:

“Successful indeed are the believers, those who offer their Salah with khushu (humility and attentiveness).”
(Surah Al-Mu’minun, 23:1-2)

15 Practical Ways to Increase Khushu in Salah

Here are tried-and-true methods from the Qur’an, Sunnah, and scholars of Islam:

★ 1. Understand What You Are Saying

Memorize the meanings of the Arabic phrases in Salah. When you say Allahu Akbar, understand you are proclaiming that Allah is greater than everything else.

★ 2. Make Wudu with Care and Presence

Wudu is not just a physical cleansing; it’s a spiritual preparation. Slow down and reflect on each step as a way to wash away sins and distractions.

★ 3. Pray as If It’s Your Last Salah

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“When you stand to pray, pray as if it is your last prayer.”
(Reported by Ibn Majah)

This mindset brings seriousness and sincerity to your prayer.

★ 4. Eliminate Distractions Before Salah

Choose a quiet, clean place. Turn off notifications. Face away from distracting objects or clutter.

★ 5. Arrive Early to the Masjid

If you’re praying in congregation, arrive early and pray Sunnah prayers. Sitting in the masjid early prepares your heart and body for focused worship.

★ 6. Recite Different Surahs

Avoid repeating the same short surahs in every prayer. Learn and recite different verses to stay mentally engaged.

★ 7. Slow Down Your Movements

Do not rush through rukoo’ or sujood. The Prophet ﷺ used to pray with calmness, giving each posture its due.

★ 8. Reflect on Allah’s Names and Attributes

Before Salah, remind yourself who you're praying to — Ar-Rahman, Al-Ghafoor, Al-Aleem. This increases awe and love.

★ 9. Pause Between Verses

When reciting in Salah, pause slightly after each verse. It gives your heart time to absorb the meaning.

★ 10. Lengthen Your Sujood

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“The closest a servant comes to his Lord is when he is in prostration.”
(Muslim)

Take time in sujood to pour out your heart to Allah.

★ 11. Vary Your Duas and Dhikr

In sujood and tashahhud, recite different authentic duas from the Sunnah. This keeps your prayer alive and meaningful.

★ 12. Constantly Renew Your Intention (Niyyah)

Remind yourself why you're praying: To seek Allah’s pleasure and forgiveness — not just to complete a ritual.

★ 13. Avoid Praying When Hungry or Sleepy

The Prophet ﷺ discouraged praying while food is served or while sleepy (Bukhari, Muslim). Physical comfort supports mental focus.

★ 14. Seek Refuge from Shaytan

Before Salah, say:

“A‘udhu billahi min ash-shaytan ir-rajim”
Satan tries to distract us. Seeking protection from him is essential.

★ 15. Make Dua After Salah for Better Khushu

Ask Allah sincerely:
“O Allah, help me to remember You, thank You, and worship You properly.”
(Abu Dawood)

Conclusion: Khushu is a Lifelong Journey

Increasing khushu is not about perfection — it's about consistent effort. Some days will be better than others, but with sincere intention, knowledge, and practice, your Salah can become your spiritual anchor.