1. Participate in Activities That Put You in Touch With Your Physicality
Hobbies and healthy recurring activities can take the place of obsessive-compulsive thoughts if practiced regularly. In particular, activities that help you become more aware of your body's physical existence can calm you. Yoga and meditation are the traditional methods, but you can also include other forms of exercise, such as swimming, cycling and running. Activities like dancing and martial arts are good too. Anything that focuses your attention on the rhythms of your body--your heartbeat, your breathing and sensations on your skin--can help ground you in the moment, which reduces the impact of obsessive thoughts.
2. Slow Down Your Pace
Frantic, excited activity increases anxiety and stress and can trigger ritualistic behavior. Give yourself permission to stop and take a pause. Usually, this means making a shift in your priorities as well. Learn to take more time to relax, take weekends and vacation days off and do not feel compelled to drive yourself forward. That should help keep compulsions and ritualistic behaviors from overwhelming you and allow you to process them better when they arise.
3. Socialize to Fight OCD
Social isolation can exacerbate obsessive-compulsive behavior, especially if you don't think others are as careful about the subject of your compulsions. For instance, you may be concerned about cleanliness and feel unwilling to contact other people for fear of contamination. Greater socialization helps to treat the symptoms of OCD and prevent obsessive thoughts from running away with you. Start with small steps, and consult with someone you trust (a family member or loved one) for advice on appropriate behavior.
4. Choose a Safe Zone
Find a place in your home where you can sit and relax whenever you feel compulsive urges starting to rise. The security of a set place can help you get a handle on the urge to ritualize and may even replace harmful rituals in some cases. Choose a quiet, private place that is free of distractions, and make sure you can get there easily. Spend 30 minutes to 1 hour there each time an episode is triggered. Once the urge subsides, you can leave the safe zone and go on with your day.
5. Seek a Qualified Therapist to Speak With About OCD
Trained professionals are key to treating OCD, especially those with specialized knowledge of the condition. They can help provide emotional grounding and reassurance, plotting a road map for coping with your condition. Psychiatry and psychology departments at local universities and medical centers can recommend therapists with experience in handling OCD.
