
World Hijab Day: How Hijab Became My Path to Inner Peace and Strength

30th January 2025
by Maryam Yousaf
To mark World Hijab Day 2025, Author Maryam Yousaf shares her reflections on how wearing the Hijab became her path to inner peace and strength. Don’t miss Maryam at Expressing Identity, our World Hijab Day writing workshop on Hijab and Faith in Dundee on 11th February.
1st February marks the 13th annual World Hijab Day.
To me, the hijab is a powerful symbol—a bridge between my inner beliefs and their tangible expression in the world. It reflects my faith, my growth, and the resilience I’ve nurtured through the years. Wearing the hijab has deepened my connection with Allah.
My Early Encounter with Hijab
As a young girl, I watched the women in my life wear dupattas and cover their hair. But when the time came for me to wear it myself, I felt uncertain and unsure of myself. Was it a cultural tradition or a religious obligation? Thoughts like these filled my mind, especially as I navigated my shy, introverted nature. Growing up in a Pakistani household, where culture and religion often blend, it wasn’t always easy to recognise the hijab for what it truly was: a commandment from Allah and a manifestation of faith.
I started searching for answers, and the more I learned, the more my connection to Islam grew, sparking within me a strong desire to practice my faith fully.
The Journey Toward Wearing the Hijab
The decision to wear the hijab was not made lightly. It was about claiming my spiritual identity through a conscious act of devotion. At first, I struggled. My insecurities whispered that I didn’t look good, that it made me ugly. I sought comfort in numbers, hoping my friends would join me, but when they didn’t, I faced the path alone. Though challenging, it helped me gain clarity about my purpose. It was never about pleasing others—it was about obeying Allah, no matter how many times I stumbled.
Embracing the Strength Within
There were days when harsh comments cut deeper than I expected. The voices made me feel I had to be perfect to wear the hijab, only adding to my anxiety. But I chose to turn inward, focusing on the purity of my intention.
I knew it wouldn’t be easy, but I had to be brave and take the first step.I was okay with struggling along the way, as long as I showed Allah I was trying—because true failure lies in not trying at all.
A Source of Empowerment
Over time, the hijab helped me grow more confident and assured, reminding me that my worth isn’t defined by others’ perceptions or society’s narrow ideals of beauty. It allowed me to reclaim my narrative, wear my identity unapologetically, and live according to my values. It became a daily act of self-love, a declaration of submission to my Lord, and an embodiment of strength found in living authentically.
Instilling Understanding and Sharing Inspirational Stories About Hijab
Years later, after becoming a mother, I wrote Huda’s Hijab, a children’s book that explains the significance of the hijab in an engaging way. The book is not only for Muslim children but for non-Muslims too, highlighting the significance of headscarves across religions and helping younger generations understand the true essence of the hijab.
In my non-fiction book Remarkable Muslim Women Throughout the Ages, I tell the story of Şule Yüksel Şenler, who went from being completely uninterested in the hijab to becoming a passionate activist and writer, shedding light on the struggles women face in fighting for their right to wear it.
Final Reflections on Hijab
For me, the hijab has been a key to growth. Through consistent practice and patience, the hijab became a habit. Habits shape our lives, and living in alignment with our values requires consistent intentional effort. The hijab is an act of worship, a part of all of us. There is no perfect time to wear it because perfection belongs only to Allah. No matter where we are in our journey, there is beauty and great reward in our struggle, from the One who sees all.
About Me
Salaam! I’m Maryam Yousaf, an author and Relationship & Mindset Coach. I help Muslim women overcome limiting beliefs, navigate challenges, and strengthen their marriages. Follow me on Instagram for inspiration:@muslimatoday. Download my free guides: Get Unstuck with Allah by Your Side and The Single Muslimah’s Guide at muslimatoday.com. My books are available on Amazon and in bookstores worldwide.