Every outreach event begins long before the first participant arrives!
So far, 157 dental hygiene bags have been distributed, supporting healthier habits through culturally rooted care.
Behind the scenes, our team prepares each Catalyst to Amanah Masabih dental hygiene and wellness kit by hand—carefully organizing toothbrushes, toothpaste, educational materials, Miswak, and our sensory-inclusive Masabih beads.
Why We Include Miswak
Miswak (also known as siwak) is a natural teeth-cleaning twig traditionally used in many Muslim and global communities for centuries. It is known for supporting oral hygiene through gentle plaque removal, freshening breath, and helping maintain gum health when used properly. Miswak also carries deep cultural and spiritual significance—used historically as a Sunnah practice that emphasizes cleanliness and self-care. Including Miswak in our kits honors this tradition while introducing participants to an accessible, natural tool that reinforces consistent dental hygiene.
The Inspiration Behind the Sensory Masabih Beads
Our sensory Masabih beads are inspired by the traditional Muslim Masabih (prayer beads), which have long been used for dhikr (remembrance), grounding, reflection, and mindful repetition. For many people, Masabih are not only spiritual tools but also calming sensory objects that provide rhythm, comfort, and structure through touch and repetition.
From that inspiration, I developed the Masabih Beads Wellness Model—a way to bridge cultural familiarity with health behavior support. I saw how many children and families—especially individuals with autism, ADHD, sensory sensitivities, anxiety, PTSD, or developmental delays—struggle with brushing due to sensory discomfort, restlessness, fear, or difficulty tracking time. I wanted a tool that could make brushing feel more structured, calming, and achievable.
How the Beads Support Brushing
The textured beads serve as both a sensory grounding tool and a brushing timer, helping individuals build:
- Calmness (through soothing tactile input)
- Focus (through guided repetition)
- Time awareness (by using bead-counting to reach a two-minute brushing routine)
- Confidence (by turning brushing into a predictable, manageable process)
These kits are designed to reduce barriers to dental self-care by making preventive tools accessible, culturally sensitive, and sensory-inclusive. By preparing each bag with intention, we ensure families receive more than supplies—they receive a practical resource that supports long-term oral health, emotional wellness, and community empowerment.
Behind every Catalyst to Amanah Masabih outreach event is a lot of heart and preparation. Each dental hygiene and wellness kit is carefully handmade and packed with love by our team—bringing together toothbrushes, floss, Miswak, and sensory Masabih beads to support healthy routines in a way that feels inclusive, culturally meaningful, and calming for all ages and abilities. This behind-the-scenes work reflects our dedication to making oral health education accessible, supportive, and community-centered.
Catalyst to Amanah Masabih Initiative 