Read before Reading

A thorough understanding of what happens in your mind whenever OCD gets to you is an essential part of overcoming the problem; therefore, the first part of the self-help program is 'study'! In Buddhism, studying is an integral part on the way to enlightenment and often combined with mindfulness practice. 

Don't worry, you don't need to become enlightened to overcome OCD! But it makes sense that therapeutic practices will be much more efficient if you understand what you are doing, and why you are doing it. Therefore, the following articles will take you on a journey into the world of Buddhist psychology, and you will learn how Buddhism understands the human mind. 

NOTE: Please complete the 'study'-part and read through all articles before you start the meditation program! You will get much more out of the meditations, then!

It is highly recommended that you find a nice, cozy spot, grab a hot beverage of your choice, and make reading time a gift to yourself :-) As you go through the texts, you will see a 'Self-Reflection' question at the end of certain paragraphs, on which you are asked to contemplate. If you like, have paper and a pen ready to scribble down some words, or maybe even draw something as you ponder the question. The self-reflective exercises are there to help you establish a link between the content of the articles and your own situation, in order that you gain a deeper understanding of yourself and the processes that bring about OCD. Read 'mindfully' - did you know that reading can be a form of meditation, too?

If you want to gain an overview about the whole subject before you immerse yourself in the wonders of the human mind, you can check out the last article Wrap-Up first, and then go back to start with the first article What is a Person?

Have fun reading!