The Role of Breath-Based Dhikr Practices in the Physical and Emotional States of Social Workers in Children's Social Services Institution

Abstract

Social workers in child-care institutions face a high risk of emotional exhaustion due to work pressure. This study explores the experiences of social workers who integrate breath-based dhikr, as practiced in Manajemen Tasawuf Indonesia (MTI), into their professional routines. This research aims to understand the dynamics of changes in physical conditions, emotional states, and internalized Sufism values. Using a qualitative approach with an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis design, the study involved three senior social workers at Panti Pelayanan Sosial Anak Mandiri in Semarang. The results indicate that, physically, respiratory regulation can reduce body tension. Emotionally, there is a shift from a reactive response to a stable response through the pause mechanism. The internalization of Sufism values, ikhlas, gratefulness, and tawakal, serves as an inner resource in work. These findings confirm the potential of breath-based dhikr as a universal contemplative practice that can support the well-being of individuals and communities globally.