my OCD is acting up after sitting on a chair in public, I feel so distressed and am having trouble handling these feelings

Dear friend, I am sorry to hear that you are experiencing distress due to your OCD after sitting on a chair in public. It can be challenging to manage OCD, and it’s understandable that you are feeling overwhelmed. Please know that you are not alone in this struggle. From a Buddhist perspective, it's important to remember that our thoughts and feelings are impermanent and ever-changing. It's natural for the mind to create stories and judgments, but we don't have to believe everything our mind tells us. We can cultivate mindfulness and observe our thoughts without getting caught up in them. This can help us create distance from our thoughts and emotions, and reduce their impact on our lives. From a psychological perspective, it can be helpful to practice exposure therapy. This involves gradually exposing yourself to situations that trigger your OCD, while learning to manage the anxiety and distress that arises. You can start with small steps, like sitting on a public chair for a short period, and gradually increase the time and intensity of the exposure. You can also practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation, to manage the physical symptoms of anxiety. My coaching advice for you is to seek support from a mental health professional who is experienced in treating OCD. They can provide you with the tools and techniques to manage your symptoms, and create a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs. Remember to be kind to yourself and practice self-compassion. You are not defined by your OCD, and with support and practice, you can learn to manage it and live a fulfilling life. professional