Contemplating Allah’s ayat (signs) in the natural world is therapeutic, but more importantly, beneficial to our iman (faith).
Abu Darda (ra) was a companion of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ who was distinguished by his love of deep reflection and contemplation. Abu Darda said, “Contemplating for an hour is better than praying all night.”
The purpose of meditation is to give you a sense of peace, balance, and connect you with your inner self.
In contrast, the purpose of an Islamically-based contemplation and reflection is to connect you with the Source of peace and balance, Allah subhanAllah wa ta’ala!
The intention makes all the difference because “actions are but by their intentions, and every person will have that which they intended.” (Bukhari)