Nurse Media Journal of Nursing
e-ISSN: 2406-8799, p-ISSN: 2087-7811
https://medianers.undip.ac.id
15(2):137-152, August 2025
https://doi.org/10.14710/nmjn.v15i2.60106
ORIGINAL RESEARCH

Tahajjud Prayer and Its Association with
Anthropometric and Blood Pressure Parameters
in Young Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study
Yusni Yusni1, Safrizal Rahman2
1Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, Indonesia
2Department of Orthopedic and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala,

Banda Aceh, Indonesia

Article Info

Abstract

Article History:
Received: 30 November 2023
Revised: 29 July 2025
Accepted: 1 August 2025
Online: 31 August 2025
Keywords:
Blood pressure; BMI;
cross-sectional study; Tahajjud
prayer; weight
Corresponding Author:
Yusni Yusni
Department of Physiology,
Faculty of Medicine, Universitas
Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh,
Indonesia
Email: yusni@usk.ac.id

Background: The spiritual significance of Tahajjud (Islamic voluntary night
prayer) is well established; however, its association with physiological markers, such
as body weight (BW), body mass index (BMI), and blood pressure (BP), particularly
in relation to gender, remains underexplored.
Purpose: This study aimed to assess the association between Tahajjud prayer and
anthropometric and BP parameters in young adults by comparing Tahajjud and
non-Tahajjud groups, as well as regular and irregular Tahajjud practice, with
attention to gender differences.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 462 Muslim participants
(206 men, 256 women) aged 18–22 years. Data on demographics, religious
practices, and Tahajjud frequency were collected through questionnaires.
Participants were categorized into Tahajjud and non-Tahajjud groups; those who
performed Tahajjud were further classified as regular (≥3 times/week) or irregular
(<3 times/week). BP was measured using a digital sphygmomanometer, BW with a
digital scale, and height with a digital stadiometer. Comparisons of BW, BMI, and
BP were made across Tahajjud and non-Tahajjud groups, regular and irregular
Tahajjud practitioners, and by gender. Data were analyzed using Chi-square and ttests at a 95% confidence level (p<0.05).
Results: The prevalence of Tahajjud practice was higher among women than men,
both overall (70.71% vs. 66.51%) and for regular practice (32.04% vs. 13.86%), with
a significant gender difference in regular Tahajjud (p=0.001). No significant genderspecific differences in BW or BMI were observed between Tahajjud and nonTahajjud groups. Among women, systolic BP was significantly lower in the Tahajjud
group (p=0.001). Regular Tahajjud practice was associated with lower BW and BMI
in both women (p<0.005) and men (p<0.05). Although systolic and diastolic BP
were lower among regular Tahajjud practitioners, differences were not statistically
significant. Irregular Tahajjud was associated with a higher prevalence of
overweight and obesity (p=0.016).
Conclusions: Regular Tahajjud practice was associated with lower BW, BMI, and
modest reductions in BP, suggesting a potential role in obesity prevention and
cardiovascular health. Nurses can incorporate culturally relevant practices, such as
Tahajjud, into health education and lifestyle counseling programs.

How to cite: Yusni, Y., & Rahman, S. (2025). Tahajjud prayer and its association with anthropometric and blood
pressure parameters in young adults: A cross-sectional study. Nurse Media Journal of Nursing, 15(2), 137−152.
https://doi.org/10.14710/nmjn.v15i2.60106
Copyright © 2025 by the Authors, Published by Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro.
This is an open-access article under the CC BY-SA License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/).

1.

Introduction
Obesity, a complex public health issue, contributes to various comorbidities (Castro et al.,
2020). It was officially classified as a disease in 2012 (Meouchy et al., 2022). Obesity elevates the
risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, hyperlipidemia, infertility, and hypertension,
thereby increasing mortality rates (Chin et al., 2016; Jiang et al., 2016; Wiklund, 2016). Over 60%
of adults globally, including those in Indonesia, are classified as obese (World Health
Organization [WHO], 2021). Data from the WHO indicate that obesity in Indonesia has doubled
over the last two decades (WHO, 2021). The national prevalence has reached 23.1% (Harbuwono
et al., 2018), while adolescent obesity in Aceh stands at 21.96% (Yusni & Meutia, 2019). Obesity
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Nurse Media Journal of Nursing, 15(2), 2025, 138
results from an imbalance between calorie intake and expenditure; thus, physical activity is an
effective strategy for weight management (Chin et al., 2016). Globally, 39% of individuals engage
in low physical activity, with rates reaching 33.5% in Indonesia (Dewi et al., 2020).
Preventing and managing obesity involves adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes a
balanced diet and increased physical activity (Hamasaki, 2017; Petridou et al., 2019). Regular
physical activity lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal conditions, and
metabolic syndrome (type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and obesity) (Nazish & Kalra,
2018). A close link exists between obesity and hypertension through endocrine pathways
(Meouchy et al., 2022). Moderate-intensity exercise effectively reduces both body weight and
blood pressure (BP) (Jakicic et al., 2018).
Individuals with higher physical activity tend to have less visceral fat, reduced liver fat stores
by around 50%, a lower fat percentage, and a lower BMI (Wiklund, 2016). Physical activity at
moderate intensity, lasting 150 to 250 minutes per week, results in an energy expenditure of 1,200
to 2,000 kcal per week, which helps in preventing weight gain of more than 3% in adults (Orellana
et al., 2020). Additionally, moderate-intensity physical activity leads to weight loss of about 2-3
kg, with a higher reduction of 5-7.5 kg if the activity is sustained for 225–420 minutes per week
(Orellana et al., 2020). While these findings support the general impact of physical activity on
weight control, a gap exists in the literature regarding the specific effects of religious practices,
such as salat or Tahajjud prayer, on body weight regulation.
Salat (Islamic prayer) is a unique form of structured, repetitive physical movement that offers
health benefits and potential therapeutic value (Nazish & Kalra, 2018). Studies have shown that
salat promotes physical fitness, disease prevention, and overall well-being (Rufa’i et al., 2013). As
a light-to-moderate intensity physical activity, salat can be performed safely for extended
durations across age groups, offering benefits such as enhanced lipolysis and reduced fat stores
(Kamran, 2018; Nazish & Kalra, 2018). It has also been linked to improved BP regulation (Fikri
& Boy, 2019) and overall fitness (Wahab & Ahmad, 2016). Salat is spiritual medicine that can be
a cure for various diseases (Chamsi-pasha, 2021). It is also a therapeutic exercise for stroke
patients to maintain balance, prevent osteoarthritis, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease
and obesity (Osama et al., 2019). The salat movement, as exemplified by Rasulullah Muhammad
SAW at every change of position, has been recognized by sports medicine experts as a highly
complex movement because, during prayer, almost all muscles and joints are trained (Nazish &
Kalra, 2018). Salat reduces sympathetic nerve activity and increases parasympathetic activity,
resulting in relaxation, reduced stress, reduced anxiety, reduced cardiovascular risk, and reduced
obesity (Doufesh et al., 2014; Yusni & Rahman, 2024). Thus, salat plays a role in preventing and
controlling weight (Iftikhar et al., 2016). Among various types of salat, Tahajjud holds particular
significance due to its unique timing, spiritual depth, and potential benefits for physical health.
Tahajjud prayer is a sunnah prayer that is generally performed by Muslims to obtain rewards
from Allah SWT (Utami & Usiono, 2020). Tahajjud, a voluntary night prayer in Islam, is
performed during the last third of the night (Yusni et al., 2023). This prayer involves repeated
physical movements such as standing, bowing, and prostrating, which may contribute to physical
activation (Yusni et al., 2023). It also includes elements of mindfulness, self-reflection, and
spiritual connection, all of which are considered valuable in nursing models that integrate biopsycho-spiritual care. As a voluntary prayer performed in the last third of the night, Tahajjud may
influence health indicators such as body weight (BW), body mass index (BMI), and BP.
In terms of health, BW, BMI, and BP are important indicators that contribute significantly to
overall well-being (Yusni et al., 2024). These parameters are critical in assessing the risk of
various health issues such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and metabolic dysfunctions
(Mendes et al., 2025). Monitoring BW, BMI, and BP can help identify individuals at risk and
support early intervention. Additionally, the regulation plays a significant role in maintaining
health, especially in young adults undergoing various physical, hormonal, and metabolic changes
(Mendes et al., 2025; Yusni et al., 2024; Yusni & Yusuf, 2022). Examining the relationship
between these indicators is crucial for predicting health outcomes across diverse populations.
Gender-specific studies frequently reveal differences in BW, BMI, and BP due to physiological
and metabolic factors that differ between men and women (Sabatina et al., 2022). For instance,
women typically have a higher body fat percentage and different hormonal profiles than men,
which can influence body composition and BP regulation (Mahwati, 2019). These gender
differences make it important to compare BW, BMI, and BP between men and women, as they
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Nurse Media Journal of Nursing, 15(2), 2025, 139
provide valuable insights into how these parameters affect their health. Such differences
underscore the importance of gender-based comparisons, offering insights into health risks and
informing tailored interventions, especially regarding cardiovascular health and weight
management for preventing obesity (Lopez-Jimenez et al., 2022; Zouhal et al., 2020).
Research indicates that Tahajjud may enhance energy metabolism and reduce adipose tissue
by increasing lipolysis, mediated by elevated lipase activity. These physiological effects may help
improve dyslipidemia, increase muscle mass, and support weight loss (Kantanista & Osiński,
2014). This study offers a novel perspective by exploring the relationship between regular
Tahajjud prayer and physiological indicators, including body weight, body mass index (BMI), and
blood pressure, among young adults. While previous research has examined the psychological
and spiritual benefits of night prayers (Suseno, 2023; Yusni & Rahman, 2024), empirical evidence
concerning their influence on physical health parameters remains limited. Addressing this gap,
the present cross-sectional study investigates whether the performance and regularity of Tahajjud
prayer—which involves moderate-intensity physical movements—are associated with variations
in body weight, BMI, and blood pressure among both genders. The study provides initial insights
into the potential role of Tahajjud as a complementary, non-pharmacological approach to health
promotion and nursing practice. Its findings are expected to inform future investigations,
including clinical trials, to assess the long-term effects of Tahajjud on physical health outcomes
and to support the development of spiritually sensitive, faith-integrated health promotion
strategies for holistic patient care.
2. Methods
2.1. Research design
This study employed a cross-sectional study design to investigate the association between
Tahajjud prayer and anthropometric parameters, as well as blood pressure, among young adults.
2.2. Setting and samples
This study was conducted in Banda Aceh, Indonesia, between August and September 2023.
The research targeted young participants, specifically selecting students from a National Higher
Education Institution residing in student dormitories. The choice of dormitory was made to
standardize the subjects’ characteristics and lifestyles, thereby minimizing potential confounding
variables that could affect the research outcomes. Confounding variables such as differences in
sleep and wake patterns, daily physical activity levels, and dietary intake were minimized by
selecting participants who shared the same living environment, followed a similar daily routine,
and received standardized meals provided by the dormitory. The inclusion criteria for the
research subjects were being Muslim, aged 18-25, healthy, and either male or female. Exclusion
criteria included participants with hypertension based on a doctor’s diagnosis, those unwilling to
participate, those with incomplete data, athletes (based on screening results by the research
team), individuals currently undergoing hormonal therapy, and those following a diet program to
reduce or increase weight. Participants with a known diagnosis of hypertension or those currently
taking antihypertensive medication were also excluded. This information was obtained through a
screening questionnaire administered prior to data collection. This exclusion criterion aimed to
minimize confounding factors, as pre-existing hypertension could significantly affect blood
pressure measurements.
Participants were selected using accidental (convenience) sampling, in which individuals
were recruited based on their availability and willingness to participate at the time of data
collection. This method was chosen due to time and resource constraints, enabling researchers to
recruit an adequate number of eligible participants at natural settings such as community or
campus health screening events. Although this non-probability sampling technique has
limitations in terms of generalizability, it was considered appropriate given the study's
exploratory nature. This study did not include a formal sample size estimation, as it used a total
sampling approach. All 800 residents of the student dormitory at the National Higher Education
Institution were invited to participate. A total of 462 students agreed to participate, consisting of
256 women and 206 men, yielding a response rate of 57.8%. All participants completed all
research procedures and provided complete data; therefore, no samples were excluded from the
study.
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Nurse Media Journal of Nursing, 15(2), 2025, 140
In this study, Tahajjud prayer habits were assessed based on participants’ self-reported
frequency over the past month. Participants were first categorized into two main groups: Tahajjud
and Non-Tahajjud. Those who reported performing the Tahajjud prayer at least once a week were
classified as the Tahajjud group, while those who did not perform it at all were classified as the
Non-Tahajjud group. Further classification was applied within the Tahajjud group based on
frequency of practice. Participants who performed Tahajjud three or more times per week were
defined as Regular Tahajjud practitioners, while those who performed it fewer than three times
per week were categorized as Irregular Tahajjud practitioners. Accordingly, two separate
comparisons were conducted: (1) Tahajjud vs Non-Tahajjud, and (2) Regular vs Irregular among
Tahajjud practitioners.
2.3. Measurement and data collection
To involve participants in this study, we employed a structured recruitment process. Initially,
potential participants were informed about the study through announcements in university
dormitories. The recruitment materials included detailed information about the study’s
objectives, procedures, and inclusion criteria. Participants who expressed interest were invited to
an informational session, where the study was explained in further detail, including its voluntary
nature and the measures taken to ensure confidentiality and ethical standards. During this
session, participants were invited to ask questions and clarify any concerns about the study’s
procedures. After receiving verbal and written consent, participants who met the inclusion criteria
were enrolled in the study, while those who did not meet the criteria were respectfully excluded.
This recruitment process ensured that participants voluntarily agreed to take part and were fully
informed of their rights throughout the study.
The research data were collected through questionnaires and health examinations. The
questionnaire included items on age, gender, religion, whether the respondent practices Tahajjud
prayer, and the frequency of its practice. The frequency with which the subject performed
Tahajjud indicated whether it was a regular practice; it was considered routine if an individual
performed it at least 3 times per week (3–7 times per week) (Yusni & Rahman, 2024). The
questionnaire was developed by the researcher and underwent a pilot test involving 10
participants with similar characteristics to the study population. All items were clearly understood
and answered without the need for clarification, indicating satisfactory face and content validity.
Therefore, formal statistical reliability testing, such as Cronbach’s alpha, was not conducted at
this stage due to the limited number of pilot respondents.
All participants underwent a single health examination, including measurements of weight,
height, and blood pressure. The examinations were conducted in the morning before participants
began their daily activities. All assessments were conducted at the dormitory by a physician who
was part of the research team. Blood pressure (BP) was measured using a digital automatic
sphygmomanometer (Omron JPN600, Omron Healthcare Co., Ltd., Kyoto, Japan). All
participants were instructed to sit quietly for at least 5 minutes in a seated position, with their
back supported and feet flat on the floor, in a quiet room at ambient temperature. Measurements
were taken on the left arm, at heart level, using an appropriately sized cuff.
To minimize physiological variability and enhance consistency across participants, all
measurements were conducted in the morning between 8:00 and 10:00 a.m. This time frame was
selected based on evidence that key physiological parameters, such as blood pressure and
circadian rhythms, are more stable during the early morning hours. Studies have shown that
morning assessments reduce diurnal variation and improve the reliability of cardiovascular
measurements (Head & Lukoshkova, 2008; Kario, 2005; Kumar et al., 2021). It is important to
note that this study employed a cross-sectional design; therefore, measurements were not taken
immediately after the Tahajjud prayer. Instead, participants were examined during a
standardized morning window, regardless of their prayer schedule. This approach ensured
uniformity in data collection and avoided procedural complexity typically associated with clinical
trials. As a preliminary or exploratory investigation, this study serves as a foundational step
toward future clinical trials that may explore the acute physiological effects of Tahajjud prayer in
a more controlled setting.
Participants were also advised to avoid caffeine, strenuous physical activity, and heavy meals
for at least two hours prior to the measurement to reduce external influences on BP values. BMI
was calculated using the standard formula: weight in kilograms divided by height in meters
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Nurse Media Journal of Nursing, 15(2), 2025, 141
squared (kg/m²). Body weight was measured with a manual weight scale (GEA ZT-120, GEA
Medical, Jakarta, Indonesia), and height was measured with a digital wall-mounted stadiometer
(GEA Stature Meter Digital HT 721, GEA Medical, Jakarta, Indonesia). Participants stood
barefoot with heels, backs, and heads against the wall, looking straight ahead. The measurement
arm was adjusted to touch the crown of the head without pressure, and height was recorded at
eye level. Each participant’s height was measured twice, and the final value was the average. A
third measurement was taken if discrepancies occurred. The stadiometer accuracy was ±0.5 cm,
and measurements were cross-validated using an alternative calibrated device in a controlled
environment. The Asia-Pacific BMI classification was applied, as follows: BMI < 18.80 =
underweight, 18.50–22.90 = normal weight, 23.00–24.90 = overweight, and >25 = obesity (Yusni
& Meutia, 2019). Blood pressure was categorized according to the guidelines of the American
College of Cardiology/American Heart Association, including: normal = <120/<80 mmHg,
elevated = 120-129/<80, hypertension stage 1 = 130-139/80-89, and hypertension stage 2 =
≥140/≥90 (Muntner et al., 2019).
2.4. Data analysis
The data were analyzed using an independent sample t-test and a Chi-square test, with a
significance level of 95% (p<0.05). Given that the sample size exceeded 100 participants (n=462),
normality and homogeneity of variances were not formally tested, as per the central limit theorem
(Kwak & Kim, 2017; Sawada, 2021). With large sample sizes (typically >30), the sampling
distribution of the mean tends to approximate a normal distribution, which justifies the use of
parametric tests without explicitly testing for normality or homogeneity of variances (Sawada,
2021). Hypothesis testing was conducted using Chi-square tests for categorical data and
independent t-tests for continuous data. The results are presented with p-values and 95%
confidence intervals to indicate the statistical significance and precision of the estimates.
Differences in age, weight, height, BMI, and blood pressure between men and women were
analyzed using independent sample t-tests. Additionally, the impact of Tahajjud on weight, BMI,
and blood pressure in men and women was examined, along with the frequency of Tahajjud
prayers. A Chi-square analysis was performed to examine the association between gender and the
practice of Tahajjud, as well as the relationship between regular Tahajjud practice, BW, BMI, and
BP among men and women.
2.5. Ethical considerations
All willing participants were asked to sign written informed consent prior to data collection
and health examinations. This research was conducted after obtaining ethical approval from the
Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, with approval number
110/EA/FK/2023.
3. Results
3.1. Characteristics of participants
Participant characteristics assessed in this study, as presented in Table 1, included age,
weight, height, body mass index, and blood pressure (systolic and diastolic). The total number of
participants in this study was 462, consisting of 256 females and 206 males. These results indicate
that the number of female participants was slightly higher than that of males. The mean age,
systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) did not differ significantly
between male and female participants (p=0.094, p=0.056, and p=0.159, respectively).
All participants were under 22, with ages ranging from 18 to 22. Significant differences were
observed in body weight (p=0.001), height (p=0.001), and BMI (p=0.044) between males and
females, which may be attributed to anatomical differences between the sexes. In contrast, there
were no significant differences in the mean values of age, SBP, and DBP between males and
females. The mean systolic blood pressure in men was slightly higher than in women, suggesting
that blood pressure was slightly above normal.
3.2. The relationship between gender and performing Tahajjud
Table 2 shows the association between Tahajjud and Non-Tahajjud participants among men
and women. The results show that most participants generally performed Tahajjud. Specifically,
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70.71% of women and 66.51% of men reported performing Tahajjud, whereas approximately
29.29% of women and 33.49% of men did not.
Table 1. Characteristics of the participants
Characteristics
Age (year)
BW (kg)
Height (cm)
BMI (kg/m2)
Systolic BP (mmHg)
Diastolic BP (mmHg)

Gender
Female
Male
Female
Male
Female
Male
Female
Male
Female
Male
Female
Male

f
256
206
256
206
256
206
256
206
256
206
256
206

Mean±SD
18.30±0.69
18.41±0.67
50.87±9.98
56.21±11.41
154.13±5.18
164.47±13.4
21.38±3.88
20.61±4.24
117.71±10.38
121.26±10.97
76.65±10.17
77.84±9.56

Minimum
18
18
35.50
34.00
142
146
15.52
13.81
69
91
60
62

Maximum
22
22
94.40
122
168
184
38.67
47.17
141
154
94
95

p-value
0.094
0.001*
0.001*
0.044*
0.056
0.159

Notes: *The level of significance (p<0.05)

Participants were also analyzed based on their habit of performing the Tahajjud prayer, even
if it was only once a week. The results indicated an association between the practice of Tahajjud
and gender; however, this association was not statistically significant (p=0.33) (Table 2).
Table 2. The relationship between gender and the habit of performing Tahajjud
Tahajjud
Gender
Female
Male
Total

Yes
f
181
137
318

No
%
70.71
66.51
68.61

f
75
69
144

%
29.29
33.49
31.39

Total
f(%)
256(100)
206(100)
462(100)

p-value
0.33

Notes: f = Frequency

3.3. The relationship between gender and the regularity of performing Tahajjud
As shown in Table 3, the number of participants who performed Tahajjud regularly was
considerably lower than that of those who performed it irregularly. Specifically, 32.04% of women
and 13.86% of men reported performing Tahajjud regularly. The data showed that, in general,
both women and men performed Tahajjud prayers incidentally and irregularly (67.96% and
86.14%, respectively). This study also showed a significant relationship between gender and the
regularity of performing Tahajjud, with women engaging in routine Tahajjud more frequently
than men (p=0.001). In this study, routine Tahajjud was defined as performing the prayer three
to seven times per week, consistent with the WHO’s (2020) criteria for regular physical activity.
3.4. Association between Tahajjud prayer and body weight, body mass index, and blood
pressure among young women and men
Table 4 shows the differences in the mean values of BW, BMI, systolic, and diastolic blood
pressure among women and men, categorized by Tahajjud and non-Tahajjud groups. The results
indicate that, in both women and men in the non-Tahajjud group, the mean BW and BMI were
slightly higher (BW: 1.63 kg and 1.96 kg; BMI: 0.34 kg/m2 and 0.11 kg/m2) than in those who
performed Tahajjud. However, these differences were not statistically significant for either BW
and BMI between Tahajjud and non-Tahajjud women and men (BW: p=0.22 and p=0.44; BMI:
p=0.52 and p=0.25). This result suggests that there is no relationship between Tahajjud and BW
or BMI in young men and women. In a similar vein, Tahajjud was not significantly associated with
DBP in either gender (p=0.10 and p=0.27, respectively). However, the mean SBP among women
who performed Tahajjud was considerably lower (p=0.001) than in the non-Tahajjud group,
whereas no significant difference was observed in men (p=0.88). These findings indicate that
performing Tahajjud may be associated with lower SBP among women.
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Table 3. The relationship between gender and performing Tahajjud (regular and irregular)
Tahajjud
Gender

Regular
f
58
19
77

Female
Male
Total

Irregular

%
32.04
13.86
22.95

f
123
118
241

%
67.96
86.14
77.05

Total
181
137
318

p-value
0.001*

Table 4. Differences in the mean values of weight, BMI, systolic, and diastolic blood pressure
in men and women who performed Tahajjud and non-Tahajjud
Variable
Weight
(kg)

Gender
Female
Male

BMI
(kg/m2)

Female
Male

Systolic
(mmHg)

Female
Male

Diastolic
(mmHg)

Female
Male

Group
Non-Tahajjud
Tahajjud
Non-Tahajjud
Tahajjud
Non-Tahajjud
Tahajjud
Non-Tahajjud
Tahajjud
Non-Tahajjud
Tahajjud
Non-Tahajjud
Tahajjud
Non-Tahajjud
Tahajjud
Non-Tahajjud
Tahajjud

f
75
181
69
137
75
181
69
137
75
181
69
137
75
181
69
137

Mean±SD
51.35±10.12
49.72±9.61
56.87±10.83
54.91±12.45
21.49±5.12
21.15±5.25
20.65±3.55
20.54±5.38
111.13±12.66
108.70±9.22
122.33±10.89
122.88±11.04
77.94±11.07
74.76±9.66
77.47±8.77
75.99±10.97

CI 95%

p-value

-1.06-4.33

0.22

1.36-5.27

0.44

-0.71-1.38

0.52

1.13-1.38

0.25

2.29-3.79

0.001*

2.91-4.02

0.88

1.97-3.34

0.10

1-25-6.77

0.27

Notes. *The level of significance (p<0.05)

Table 5 presents the independent-samples t-test of the association between performing
Tahajjud (regularly or not) and BW, BMI, and BP in men and women. The results showed
significant differences in the mean BW and BMI values between women and men in the regular
and non-regular Tahajjud groups (women: p=0.003 and p=0.001; men: p=0.019 and p=0.032).
These findings suggest that regular Tahajjud prayer is associated with lower BW by approximately
3.52 kg in young men and 3.79 kg in young women, as well as lower BMI, by about 1.9 kg/m² and
1.8 kg/m², respectively. Although the regular Tahajjud group showed lower mean SBP and DBP
compared to the non-regular group in women and men, these differences were not statistically
significant (p=0.171 and p=0.200 vs. p=0.071 and p=0.125; p>0.05). These results indicate that
regular Tahajjud prayer is slightly associated with lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
Furthermore, Table 6 describes the relationship between regular Tahajjud practice and BMI
categories (overweight and obesity) in men and women. The findings suggest that overweight or
obesity is more prevalent among men and women who did not perform Tahajjud regularly,
although most participants in the study were not classified as obese. A statistically significant
association was observed only in women, where regular Tahajjud practice (3–7 times per week)
was inversely associated with overweight or obesity (p=0.016). In both sexes, a higher prevalence
of overweight or obesity was descriptively observed among participants who did not engage in
regular Tahajjud compared to those who did. However, these results reflect correlational rather
than causal relationships. The findings suggest a potential protective association between regular
Tahajjud and weight status in women, warranting further investigation through longitudinal or
interventional studies. It is also noteworthy that the number of participants who performed
Tahajjud regularly is less than that of men, even though this may be due to the small sample size,
which affects the significance of the relationship between regular Tahajjud and overweight or
obesity. Identifying such a relationship could provide preliminary evidence for the potential role
of regular Tahajjud as a complementary behavioral factor in obesity prevention strategies.

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Nurse Media Journal of Nursing, 15(2), 2025, 144
Table 5. Differences in mean values of weight, BMI, systolic, and diastolic blood pressure in
men and women who perform regular and irregular Tahajjud
Variable
Weight (kg)

Data
Female

Tahajjud
Irregular
Regular
Irregular
Regular
Irregular
Regular
Irregular
Regular
Irregular
Regular
Irregular
Regular
Irregular
Regular
Irregular
Regular

Male
BMI
(Kg/m2)

Systolic
(mmHg)

Female
Male
Female
Male

Diastolic
(mmHg)

Female
Male

f
123
58
118
19
123
58
118
19
123
58
118
19
123
58
118
19

Mean±SD
52.48±11.04
48.96±7.34
60.13±11.51
56.34±10.68
21.98±4.43
20.71±2.70
21.38±3.39
20.53±3.58
109.31±9.55
107.41±8.42
126.21±10.05
124.41±12.95
74.93±10.96
74.39±6.48
78.89±10.59
75.15±9.24

CI 95%

p-value

0.04 –5.25

0.003*

9.05-1.49

0.019*

0.44-1.21

0.001*

2.59-0.88

0.032*

1.23-8.05

0.171

7.96-4.35

0.200

0.16-4.42

0.071

1.35-8.83

0.125

Notes. *The level of significance (p<0.05)

Table 6. Relationship between regular Tahajjud and obesity in men and women
Gender
Female
Male

Tahajjud
Irregular
Regular
Irregular
Regular

BMI Category
Non-obese
Overweight/Obese
83
40
49
9
89
29
13
6

Total
123
58
118
19

p-value
0.016*
0.870

Number of participants

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the number of both male and female participants with normal
blood pressure (normotensive) was higher than that of those with elevated blood pressure. Among
female participants, 100% of those who performed regular Tahajjud had normal blood pressure,
compared to 86.18% in the irregular group, and this association was statistically significant
(p=0.003) (Figure 1).

106
120
100
80
60
40
20
0

p-value = 0.003
58

17
0
Normotensive

High BP

Blood Pressure
Irregular Tahajjud

Regular Tahajjud

Figure 1. Relationship between regular Tahajjud and blood pressure in women
In contrast, among male participants, 78.95% of those who performed regular Tahajjud had
normal blood pressure, compared to 72.03% in the irregular group. However, this difference was
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Nurse Media Journal of Nursing, 15(2), 2025, 145

Number of participants

not statistically significant (p=0.529). The lack of statistical significance among men may be
attributed to the smaller number of male participants who performed regular Tahajjud (n=19),
compared to female participants (n=58) (Figure 2).

85
100

p-value = 0.529
33

80
60
40

15

4

20
0

Normotensive
High BP
Blood Pressure
Irregular Tahajjud

Regular Tahajjud

Figure 2. Relationship between regular Tahajjud and blood pressure in men
4. Discussion
This study aimed to assess the association between Tahajjud prayer and anthropometric
measures (body weight and BMI), as well as blood pressure, in young adults by comparing
Tahajjud and non-Tahajjud groups, including differences between regular and irregular Tahajjud
practitioners, with attention to gender differences. The major findings revealed that regular
Tahajjud practice was associated with reductions in body weight, BMI, and both systolic and
diastolic blood pressure, with variations observed between men and women.
This study showed that regular Tahajjud prayer is associated with a reduction in body weight
of approximately 3.52 kg in young men and 3.79 kg in young women, compared to those who
performed irregular Tahajjud. These results are consistent with the existing literature, which
shows that night prayers (Tahajjud), which involve physical movement and extended
wakefulness, may increase energy expenditure. Moreover, spiritual routines can foster selfdiscipline and healthier behavioral patterns, such as better eating habits and sleep hygiene, which
could contribute to weight reduction. Regarding BMI, regular Tahajjud practitioners exhibited
lower BMI values by about 1.9 kg/m² in men and 1.8 kg/m² in women.
Body weight, body mass index, and blood pressure are critical indicators of an individual’s
physiological status, as they reflect overall health (Mendes et al., 2025). These parameters are
shaped by a variety of factors, including lifestyle choices such as sleep patterns, mental well-being,
and physical activity levels (van Baak et al., 2021). In young adults, maintaining balanced values
for these indicators is not only essential for optimal daily functioning but also contributes
significantly to long-term health outcomes. The present study supports the hypothesis that
lifestyle modifications, particularly consistent engagement in spiritual practices such as Muslim
prayer, including Tahajjud, may have a positive impact on physical health parameters,
particularly body weight and blood pressure regulation.
Spiritual practices and religiosity among Muslims are associated with body weight (Bharmala
et al., 2018). Muslim prayer, particularly Tahajjud, may play a beneficial role in maintaining
physical fitness and reducing obesity (Fatima et al., 2022). The Islamic prayer movements involve
repeated muscle engagement that can enhance blood circulation and support metabolic
processes. Additionally, tahajjud performed at night may positively influence hormonal balance
and sleep quality, both of which are linked to body weight regulation and blood pressure (Fatima
et al., 2022; Yusni & Rahman, 2024). These factors suggest that regular prayer may contribute
not only to spiritual but also to physical health. Salat (Islamic prayer or muslim prayer) has many
benefits for body health, so it can be used as a non-pharmacological therapy to improve patient
health (Chamsi-pasha & Chamsi-pasha, 2021). Regular salat reduces sympathetic nerve activity
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Nurse Media Journal of Nursing, 15(2), 2025, 146
and increases parasympathetic nerve activity, thereby providing a relaxing effect and reducing the
risk of cardiovascular disease (Doufesh et al., 2014). A study of 30 overweight individuals found
that after 4 weeks, performing the obligatory salat routine significantly reduced body weight and
body fat percentage (Alam et al., 2022). Salat can be categorized as Islamic yoga because some of
the postures in salat activities are similar to movements in yoga (Nazish & Kalra, 2018). Yoga is a
form of physical activity that combines physical movement, meditation, breathing, and
mindfulness, and is currently becoming popular worldwide (Watts et al., 2018). Numerous
studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of yoga in promoting weight loss and reducing
obesity (Rani, 2017).
The findings of this study are consistent with Islamic health principles, which advocate for
preventive and mindful approaches to eating and overall well-being. Practices such as initiating
meals before intense hunger, ceasing intake before full satiety, and prioritizing nutrient-dense
foods are embedded in Islamic tradition and may serve as effective behavioral strategies for
maintaining metabolic balance and preventing lifestyle-related disorders. In addition to dietary
discipline, Islam encourages regular physical activity through daily prayers (salat), which involve
repetitive movements engaging major muscle groups (Fatima et al., 2022; Iftikhar et al., 2016).
Although salat is not classified as structured exercise, it fulfills the criteria of physical activity due
to the energy expenditure and skeletal muscle involvement it entails (Naureen et al., 2022).
Specifically, the Tahajjud prayer, performed voluntarily at night and typically longer than
obligatory prayers, may have additional physiological effects due to its physical and spiritual
dimensions. These behavioral and physical aspects align with this study’s findings, which show
associations between regular Tahajjud practice and favorable anthropometric and blood pressure
parameters in young adults. Tahajjud prayer can be considered both an exercise and a physical
activity, according to the concept of physical activity, because every prayer position requires
deliberate, regulated, repetitive, and measured movements (Yusni et al., 2023). Thirty overweight
adults participated in a study that revealed a significant reduction in body fat percentage and BW
after four weeks of frequent, forced prayer (Alam et al., 2022). Hyperglycemia and insulin
sensitivity are two cardiometabolic risk variables that improve in adults who are overweight or
obese and regularly exercise (Boulé & Prud’homme, 2020).
Obesity is a risk factor for hypertension, and the link between being overweight or obese and
hypertension has long been established (Mahwati, 2019). According to Kotchen (2010), obesity
disrupts endothelial function, which throws off the balance of vasodilators and vasoconstrictors’
production, leading to hypertension. Vascular endothelial dysfunction results in a lack of nitric
oxide as a potent vasodilator, resulting in peripheral resistance and increasing blood pressure
(Kotchen, 2010). Overweight and obesity are closely related to low physical activity (Nantel et al.,
2011). Moderate-intensity exercise lasting 30–60 minutes every day or at least twice a week can
help inhibit increases in BW (Boulé & Prud’homme, 2020). Obesity is caused by a decline in
cardiorespiratory fitness and physical activity, which in turn sets off the development of
hypertension (Pedrianes-Martin et al., 2021). Research has shown that hypertension affects
35.7% of obese people (Ersoy & Ersoy, 2019). Both a cause and a risk factor for hypertension are
obesity (Aronow, 2017). There is a significant positive association between BMI and BP; in mice,
a 1 g/cm increase in BMI is associated with a 2.75 mmHg increase in BP (Yusni & Yusuf, 2022).
Pre-hypertension and hypertension are associated with a high BMI (Mahiroh et al., 2019; Shavela
& Mariani, 2020).
We found that hypertension was more common in men who did not perform regular
Tahajjud; thus, regular physical activity such as Tahajjud can help control blood pressure within
normal limits. Physical activity and gender are risk factors for hypertension in adults in Indonesia
(Peltzer & Pengpid, 2018). Younger men are more susceptible to suffering from undiagnosed and
uncontrolled hypertension (Hussain et al., 2016). Studies have demonstrated the advantages of
regular physical activity in preventing obesity, hypertension, and premature mortality, both
primary and secondary prevention (Naureen et al., 2022). In Indonesia, adults as well as those
between the ages of 18 and 21 are at risk for hypertension due to low levels of physical activity
(Khasanah, 2022; Sembiring & Utari, 2019). Exercise lowers blood pressure by -3 mmHg and SBP
by -5 mmHg (Boulé & Prud’homme, 2020). Research indicates that obese persons can lower their
blood pressure from 133/76 mmHg to 100/65 mmHg and lose weight by practicing yoga five times
a week for three months (Kaul, 2018).
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Nurse Media Journal of Nursing, 15(2), 2025, 147
Salat has been shown in studies to dramatically lower DBP and SBP in individuals with
normotension (Doufesh et al., 2014). Not only that, salat has also been proven to reduce blood
pressure in people with grade 1 hypertension (Legiran et al., 2022). As part of Salat, Tahajjud
prayer involves a series of physical movements that qualify as moderate-intensity aerobic activity
(Doufesh et al., 2013). Tahajjud is a Muslim prayer performed in the last third of the night that, if
done regularly, provides health benefits; we found that it reduces BW, BMI, and BP in young
women and men. A previous study conducted in the working area of Puskesmas Kedai Durian
supports the present findings by demonstrating a significant relationship between the regular
practice of Tahajjud prayer and reduced prevalence of hypertension among the elderly.
Specifically, elderly individuals who consistently performed the Tahajjud prayer (classified as
Very Routine and Routine) were found to have better blood pressure profiles and a greater
proportion of normal blood pressure readings than those who performed it less frequently (Boy
et al., 2020). Our previous research has found that carrying out a single dose of Tahajjud can
reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure in normotensive subjects (Yusni et al., 2023). Similar
to yoga and Tai Chi, which have demonstrated benefits in reducing blood pressure through both
physical and meditative components, Tahajjud prayer is hypothesized to contribute to blood
pressure regulation due to its spiritual and physiological aspects (Yusni et al., 2023).
The positive effects of Tahajjud on physiological parameters such as body weight, BMI, and
blood pressure may be attributed not only to its physical components but also to its meditative
aspects. Tahajjud also contains elements of mindfulness and relaxation that can reduce stress,
support mental well-being, improve glucose regulation, and contribute to overall physical health
(Chodijah, 2017; Yusni & Rahman, 2024). From a nursing perspective, these parameters are
frequently monitored to assess health status, provide lifestyle counseling, and evaluate the
effectiveness of health promotion programs. Nurses are integral to educating and supporting
individuals in adopting healthy behaviors aligned with holistic health principles. In this context,
identifying culturally relevant practices, especially those with spiritual significance, becomes
crucial. Furthermore, Tahajjud not only provides physical benefits but also enhances individuals'
overall well-being, thereby complementing the nursing role in promoting holistic health care. Our
findings suggest that regular Tahajjud may be a viable practice for supporting physical balance,
particularly by improving body weight, BMI, and blood pressure, especially among young adults.
These results align with the nursing model of holistic care, which considers physical, mental, and
spiritual health as interconnected. Nurses can incorporate such practices into their health
promotion strategies to further enhance individuals’ health and well-being, providing a culturally
sensitive approach to care (Jasemi et al., 2017; Shin et al., 2020).
The findings in this study are consistent with previous studies suggesting that religious or
spiritual practices, particularly Tahajjud and other meditation-like routines, may positively
influence physiological parameters, including weight, BMI, and BP. For example, Yusni et al.
(2023, 2024) reported that individuals who performed regular Tahajjud prayers experienced
lower stress levels and improved autonomic regulation, both of which are known to affect blood
pressure and metabolic outcomes. Several physiological and behavioral mechanisms may explain
these associations. First, Tahajjud involves physical movements and sustained postures similar
to light-intensity exercise, which may lead to modest increases in energy expenditure over time
and have the potential to reduce weight. Second, the meditative and introspective aspects of
Tahajjud are associated with reduced psychological stress, potentially through modulation of the
hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and reductions in cortisol levels, which are closely
related to weight gain and hypertension. Finally, the spiritual discipline required for regular
Tahajjud may encourage healthier lifestyle behaviors, such as improved sleep hygiene, mindful
eating, and emotional regulation, all of which support cardiometabolic health.
5.

Implications and limitations
The findings of this study suggest that regular engagement in spiritual practices, such as
Tahajjud, may have beneficial effects on BW, BMI, and BP. These results may have important
implications for nursing practice, particularly in promoting holistic health and preventive care.
Nurses, as key members of the healthcare team, can incorporate culturally relevant practices like
Tahajjud into health education and lifestyle counseling programs, particularly for patients who
value spirituality. By fostering discussions about the role of spiritual practices in maintaining or
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Nurse Media Journal of Nursing, 15(2), 2025, 148
improving physical health, nurses can help patients integrate these practices into their daily
routines, potentially enhancing their overall well-being and promoting health maintenance.
Several limitations of this study should be considered when interpreting the findings. As an
observational study, it can only establish associations rather than causal relationships. Therefore,
while Tahajjud may be associated with BW, BMI, and BP, further research, particularly
longitudinal and interventional studies, is necessary to explore its causal impact on physical
health parameters. A follow-up experimental study has been conducted and published separately,
providing initial insights into this issue (Yusni et al., 2023). Additionally, the study’s crosssectional design limits the ability to conclude the long-term effects of regular Tahajjud practice.
To address this, future research should consider using longitudinal designs to observe changes
over time. Furthermore, this study relied on self-reported data regarding Tahajjud engagement,
which may be subject to recall or social desirability bias. Therefore, it is recommended that future
studies consider complementing self-report measures with additional objective or behavioral
assessments of religious practice. Lastly, the sample size and characteristics of the study
population may limit the generalizability of the findings. Future studies should involve larger,
more diverse populations across diverse demographic and geographic contexts to improve
external validity and applicability.
6. Conclusion
The study found that women reported performing Tahajjud slightly more often than men,
although the difference was not statistically significant overall. Among regular performers,
however, a significant gender difference was observed, with women being more likely to perform
it than men. Globally, Tahajjud has no effect on BW, BMI, or SBP in men or women; however, it
does affect SBP in women. Women who regularly perform Tahajjud have a lower incidence of
obesity. Regular Tahajjud reduces BW and BMI in young men and women; regular Tahajjud
slightly decreases SBP and DBP in men and women. Regular Tahajjud reduces the risk of obesity
in women. Performing regular Tahajjud with a frequency of 3–7 times per week is necessary for
losing weight and preventing obesity in women. Additionally, regular Tahajjud can help keep
blood pressure within normal range.
Funding
Universitas Syiah Kuala funded this research project through the professor’s research grant
for funding in 2023, with the contract agreement number being 6/UN11.2.1/PT.01.03/
PNBP/2023.
Acknowledgment
The authors are deeply appreciative of all research participants who agreed to participate
voluntarily in this study. We also acknowledge the funding for this research provided by the
Institute for Research and Community Service, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, Indonesia.
Author Contributions
The research’s implementation and publishing were made possible by the efforts of all
authors. It was YN who came up with the idea and planned the study, gathered and examined the
information, and composed the final draft. SR collected data, created ethical feasibility tests for
research, and edited and proofread publications. This work has been read and approved by all
authors.
Conflict of Interest
No conflict of interest exists in this study, according to the author.
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