Relaxation

[taurean]

A common theme for me, a frequent topic. But with good reason I feel. 

Many of us simply don't know how to relax, or don't feel they ought or need to relax. But they don't know what they are missing. 

It's not a treatment for OCD,  but it is a formidable adjunct to CBT therapy for OCD. 

The illness causes disorder, which manifests in distress, tension, raised blood pressure, anxiety. 

These will go away as the therapy works - but meantime we need a way of countering that unwanted arousal - and relaxation is part of that. 

How do I relax?  In a number of ways. 

I minimise stress and worry. 

Organise my day in a structured way. 

Carry out meditations morning and evening when possible. 

Read, watch involved enjoyable TV, spend time talking to others. 

Work out at the gym. 

Practice mindfulness daily, even just eating or going for a walk. 

Enjoy the peace and tranquillity of a day's fishing. 

Garden and do DIY. 

Have lots of fun around the home living with my wonderful wife. 

Listen to classical music - as I have been this evening. Last night I listened to the fabulous Grieg's piano concerto live on Radio 3 from the Proms. 

Calming the unwanted heightened arousals of OCD using relaxation methods is a great compliment to CBT for OCD. A powerful combination of mental tools for the sufferer to use.