Calm Existentialism OCD and Find Clarity in 5 minutes

Give your brain a break with my Existential OCD meditation—a soothing mental reset that lets your thoughts drift out to sea for safe keeping.

Has your Spiritual Awakening sent you into a spiral of unanswerable questions?

If so, you’re not alone. If you have existential obsessions, it’s common for life’s big mysteries to collide with stressful life events, causing existential anxiety and leaving you feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from your daily life.

Existential OCD happens when existential questions turn into an unending quest to find answers.

Existential questions can turn into an existential crisis, leading to intrusive thoughts which repeat on a loop, making them feel even harder to escape. The OCD sufferer feels like their thoughts are out of control, while also feeling a sense of urgency to find answers and meaning.

The harder you try to find the meaning of life, the more elusive it seems

At the root of your existential OCD is the fact that an event has caused your perception to shift significantly, and you are now seeking reassurance on the meaning of life. Unfortunately, this can feel like a never-ending search for the answer that ticks all the boxes – the answer to end all answers to your philosophical questions. You scroll philosophical literature and spend countless hours watching videos and end up in a hole that leaves you questioning your own existence and wondering what the point of your whole life is.

Understanding Existential OCD

Existential OCD is a subtype of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) characterized by recurring, intrusive thoughts and feelings of uncertainty about the meaning and purpose of life.

Individuals with existential OCD often find themselves preoccupied with profound existential questions, such as “What is the meaning of life?” or “Is there an afterlife?” These intrusive thoughts can be distressing and persistent, making it difficult to focus on daily activities and causing significant anxiety and depression.

Unlike typical philosophical pondering, existential OCD involves an overwhelming need to find definitive answers, leading to a cycle of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors aimed at seeking reassurance.

Existential OCD symptoms

Sometimes it can be difficult to tell whether your existential thoughts are a normal part of life or if they have crossed the boundary into existential OCD. Below are some common signs and symptoms to look out for.

  • Constant questioning about the meaning of life
  • Doubting your beliefs and values
  • Feeling overwhelmed by existential thoughts
  • Difficulty focusing on daily tasks due to preoccupation with existential questions
  • Repeating rituals or routines in an attempt to find answers or reassurance
  • Avoiding situations that trigger existential thoughts or obsessions
  • Feeling a sense of existential dread

It’s important to note that you don’t need to be experiencing all of these existential obsessions and compulsive behaviors for it to be existential OCD. Likewise, if you are experiencing these symptoms, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you have existential OCD. Either way, my Existential OCD Meditation will help you. 

Causes and Diagnosis

The exact cause of existential OCD remains unknown, but research suggests a combination of biological and environmental factors. Hereditary influences may play a role, as individuals with a family history of OCD are at a higher risk of developing the condition.

However, genetics alone do not determine the onset of OCD. Environmental factors, such as upbringing, traumatic experiences, and stressful life events, can also contribute to the development of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

A diagnosis of existential OCD is typically made by a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, through a comprehensive evaluation of symptoms and behavior. This evaluation may include interviews, questionnaires, and assessments to understand the severity and impact of the intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.

Even if you are not “diagnosed” – if you recognize yourself in any of these symptoms of existential OCD, my meditation will help you.

A note on Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

There are three phases to OCD:

Part 1: Obsession

An obsession is a persistent, intrusive thought that feels overwhelmingly difficult to shake. Often, these fearful thoughts can centre around common obsessions or themes such as morality, safety, harm, or existential fear, triggering immense distress. Such questions may repeat endlessly in the mind, seeking reassurance or resolution.

Part 2: Compulsion

As part of the reassurance-seeking process, a person may carry out ritualistic behaviors, repetitive behaviours, or mental acts to temporarily relieve the anxiety caused by obsessions. These actions may seem excessive, irrational, or unrelated to the intrusive thoughts but provide temporary relief from the distress.

Part 3: Disorder

Just because a person experiences obsessions and/or compulsions, doesn’t automatically make it a disorder. This third part is probably the most important part: The repetitive, intrusive and escalating nature of these thoughts and actions disrupts daily life, affecting the person’s functioning and ability to enjoy the present moment.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is listed as a mental health condition in the DSM-5.

Existential OCD treatment

The good news is that OCD is a highly treatable condition – this goes for Existential OCD as well. Cognitive restructuring, also known as neuroplasticity, is often used as a part of treatment to help individuals challenge and change unhelpful thought patterns. However, there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to treating OCD. Each person may experience different obsessions and compulsions, as well as various levels of severity.

Therapies can include:

  • Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): ERP involves gradually exposing the person to their fears or obsessions without engaging in compulsive behaviors (response prevention), helping reduce the power these thoughts have over time. This process allows individuals to build tolerance and resilience to the distress.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals identify distressing thoughts and beliefs, and then challenge them – which reduces the power and severity of the thoughts over time.
  • Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT): ACT focuses on accepting the presence of obsessions and learning to live with uncertainty, while also committing to values and goals that are personally meaningful.
  • Psychoeducation: Understanding how OCD operates is an empowering tool. Learning about the mechanisms behind obsessions and compulsions can help individuals and their loved ones better navigate the recovery process.
  • Mindfulness Strategies: Mindfulness techniques such as meditation, which are often used in conjunction with other therapies, can help individuals observe their thoughts without judgment or the need to respond to them. This helps with the cognitive restructuring and neuroplasticity that is so important for healing. My Existential OCD Meditation is a great example.

Why I love meditation for Existential Obsessive Compulsive Disorder relief

In the journey of managing Existential Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), I have found meditation to be a profound source of solace and support. Meditation, an ancient mental stopgap, offers the brain a much-needed respite from the relentless cycle of intrusive thoughts and anxiety. It provides individuals with a valuable opportunity to cultivate stillness and reconnect with the present moment, fostering a sense of inner calm and balance.

For those struggling with philosophical OCD or existential OCD, meditation can be particularly effective in addressing the distressing thoughts and uncertainties that arise from questioning the fundamental aspects of life and existence. By practicing mindfulness and non-judgmental observation of thoughts, individuals can learn to disengage from the grip of obsessions and compulsions, allowing a sense of ease and clarity to emerge.

Meditation is not limited to purely existential concerns. It can also provide relief for generalized anxiety disorder, a condition often intertwined with OCD. By cultivating mindfulness and creating space between thoughts and reactions, individuals can develop a healthier relationship with their anxiety, reducing its impact on daily life.

Many people find that meditation is enough on its own to stop the thoughts from looping. It also serves as a valuable complement to other therapeutic approaches. In conjunction with working with an OCD specialist or mental health professional, meditation can enhance the overall treatment plan, offering individuals a holistic and empowering path towards recovery.

Remember, finding the right combination of strategies and support is essential in managing OCD. By embracing meditation as part of your journey, you are taking a proactive step towards reclaiming control over your thoughts and emotions, and cultivating a greater sense of well-being.

When Existential thoughts become existential dread

Having an existential crisis is a normal part of human existence, and it’s okay to question the meaning of life. Existential thoughts are normal and healthy. Pondering philosophical subjects such as what makes life meaningful is an essential part of the human experience. However, when the search for the meaning of life turns into feared existential thoughts and persistent existential dread, it becomes a problem. This obsessive thinking can leave you feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from reality.

A common theme for someone with existential OCD is fear:

  • A fearful thought or a collection of feared thoughts
  • A feared idea that hits like a jolt of lightning
  • Feared existential thoughts such as death anxiety

It’s important to note that even if your existential crisis has you plunged into the pit of despair, with the feared thoughts circling and moving in with overwhelming speed – as I used to be someone with existential OCD I can hand-on-heart tell you what other OCD sufferers and I know for sure:

  • Unanswerable Questions are a fact of life: It’s normal to struggle with themes like “What is my life’s purpose?” or “Why are we here?”. These questions have intrigued humanity for centuries.
  • Ground Yourself in Daily Life: It is possible for you (yes! Even you) to make an effort to focus on the here and now—whether it’s a walk, a hobby, or acts of self-care— while at first it may feel deeply uncomfortable, over time it can reduce the intensity of these thoughts.
  • Finding Answers Takes Time: It’s okay not to have all the answers right now. Spiritual growth is a gradual process, not something to achieve all at once.
  • You’re Not Alone: Existential themes are a common thread among those on the path to personal growth. Seeking guidance from a therapist, coach, or supportive community can offer relief and insight.

Take a Brain Break

The search for meaning is profound, but so is the need to pause. My Existential OCD Meditation is not just time away from obsessive thoughts—it’s an investment in your mental wellbeing.

What You’ll Experience:

  • A Beach Getaway for Your Mind: Visualise intrusive thoughts and overwhelming worries gently lifting from your shoulders, carried away by the ocean.
  • Cognitive Clarity: Move past cognitive dissonance, break free from the obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) cycle, and find relief from existential OCD symptoms and existential anxiety.
  • Empowerment Over Paradox: Learn to tolerate uncertainty and calmly approach even life’s most unanswerable philosophical questions.
  • Reconnection with the Present Moment: Bring focus back to life’s purpose and rediscover meaningful, mindful moments amidst a vast universe of wonder.

Sound good? Sign up to receive my free Existential OCD Meditation now.

Self-Help Strategies

While therapy is essential for treating existential OCD, there are also self-help strategies that can be helpful in managing symptoms. Here are a few:

  • Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing, can help reduce anxiety and increase feelings of calm. By focusing on the present moment, you can create a mental space that allows you to observe your thoughts without judgment.
  • Accept negative thoughts: Learn to meet negative thoughts in the spirit of acceptance and reframe them in a more positive or realistic way. This cognitive restructuring can help diminish the power of intrusive thoughts and reduce their impact on your emotions.
  • Engage in activities you enjoy: Engage in activities that bring you joy and help distract you from intrusive thoughts. Whether it’s a hobby, exercise, or spending time with loved ones, these activities can provide a much-needed break from obsessive thinking.
  • Seek support: Connect with others who understand what you are going through, such as support groups or online forums. Sharing your experiences and hearing from others can provide comfort and practical advice.

Unlocking Relief

If you find yourself consumed by the same thoughts and mental rituals, seeking reassurance or questioning life’s meaning, this meditation offers relief. Designed for people with existential OCD and related challenges—such as intrusive thoughts, fear of life’s purpose, or an overwhelming sense of dread—it’s a step toward helping your mind thrive.

Why It Works:

This meditation draws from elements of:

  • Response Prevention Therapy (ERP): A clinically proven technique for treating OCD and tolerating uncertainty.
  • Self-Compassion Practices: Helping you replace mental rituals and reassess negative feelings tied to existential topics through cognitive restructuring.
  • Mind-Body Reset Techniques: Alleviating symptoms of existential obsessions and generalised anxiety disorder with calming visualisation.

Overcoming Existential OCD in 5 Minutes

While listening to my Existential OCD Meditation will stop the loop and give immediate relief, overcoming existential OCD long-term often requires a mix of strategies. Here are a few other ways to help you manage symptoms in just 5 minutes:

  • Take a few deep breaths: Deep breathing can help reduce anxiety and increase feelings of calm. Try inhaling slowly through your nose, holding your breath for a few seconds, and then exhaling slowly through your mouth.
  • Challenge a negative thought: Take a negative thought and challenge it by reframing it in a more positive or realistic way. For example, if you’re thinking “I’ll never find the meaning of life,” try reframing it to “It’s okay not to have all the answers right now.”
  • Practice mindfulness: Take a few minutes to focus on the present moment, without judgment. Notice your surroundings, your breath, and any sensations in your body. This can help ground you and reduce the intensity of intrusive thoughts.
  • Engage in a quick activity: Do something you enjoy, like drawing, listening to music, or taking a short walk. These activities can provide a mental break and help shift your focus away from obsessive thoughts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this meditation for?

This meditation is perfect for people with existential OCD, anxiety, philosophical obsessions, or major depressive disorder looking for relief from obsessive thoughts and reassurance-seeking behaviours.

Will this work for my subtype of OCD?

While it focuses on existential OCD and philosophical topics, the meditation also provides benefits for OCD subtypes like contamination OCD or obsessive thought cycles.

How long should I listen to it?

The track itself is only 5 minutes long. I do recommend you listen to it every day though – at first you will listen a lot when your OCD is triggered, and then slowly you will need it less. You’ll see the best results when you incorporate this meditation into your daily life—whether during stressful moments or general self-care times.

Take a Step Towards a Lighter Mind

When life feels heavy, choose clarity. A pause today can lead to a more fulfilling life tomorrow.