I'tikaf offers an immense hidden benefit -- protection from the effects of excessive socializing. I'tikaf also offers protection from the consequences of talking and sleeping too much because a person usually goes to do i'tikaf of their own will, turning to God by praying at night, reading the Quran, making supplications and so on. A person doing i'tikaf should engage in prayers to the best of their ability. When speaking, they should say only what is virtuous or what is necessary. They should not do anything that goes against the spirit of i'tikaf. They should guard their heart, mind, ears and eyes against all evil.