Using Meditation for OCD & Anxiety

The Rising Popularity of Meditation

Meditation has seen a significant rise in popularity in the West in recent years, although it is far from a new practice. Many individuals develop meditation routines to aid in their recovery from OCD and anxiety. During my practice, I have encountered many people who swear by its benefits. However, like any tool, its effectiveness largely depends on how you use it.

The Correct Use of Meditation for OCD and Anxiety

In my experience, the primary benefit of meditation for OCD and anxiety lies in developing consciousness. Consciousness, in this context, refers to the awareness of the mind and emotions and the ability to observe them without judgment. This awareness allows you to distance yourself from intrusive thoughts and emotional disturbances.

When used effectively, meditation can help you observe your thoughts and feelings without becoming overwhelmed by them. This practice of distancing yourself from your mind and emotions can be radically helpful for mental well-being.

In fact, I highly encourage this practice in my program and even offer a 31-day meditation program designed specifically for OCD and anxiety.

Common Pitfalls of Using Meditation Incorrectly

One major issue I've observed is that many individuals try to use meditation to achieve an outcome, such as getting rid of intrusive thoughts or uncomfortable feelings. This approach often proves counterproductive.

Many find temporary solace in guided meditations or focused breathing exercises, which serve as distractions from their inner disturbances. While these methods may provide short-term relief, they can ultimately stifle long-term recovery. When meditation is used as a form of escapism, it reinforces avoidance behaviors rather than teaching individuals to confront and accept their thoughts and feelings.

The Best Use Case for Meditation

The most effective use of meditation is to cultivate a state of non-judgmental awareness and presence. This approach helps you become an observer of your thoughts and emotions, realizing that they are just experiences occurring in the mind and body.

By practicing this form of meditation, you develop a deeper sense of consciousness and are better equipped to handle emotional disturbances without letting them control you.

Conclusion

To wrap up, meditation can be an incredibly beneficial tool for those dealing with OCD and anxiety when used correctly. The key lies in using it to develop consciousness and non-judgmental awareness rather than as a distraction from your inner world.