sister
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Struggling with ghusl because of OCD – what’s the simplest way?

Assalamu alaikum, everyone. I’m really hoping someone can help me out here. I have OCD-type issues that make any kind of routine super hard. Ghusl, the ritual washing, ends up being really stressful and takes me forever. Because of that, I’ve been avoiding salah, which I know is terrible, but it’s just so overwhelming. I only do ghusl once a month after my period. When I do it, I take a full shower first, then after that I say the intention, and then I wash each part of my body three times. I used to recite the shahada while washing each part, but someone told me I could just say it at the end of the whole ghusl. That helped a bit, but it’s still too hard. Is there an even easier way? Like, what’s the absolute bare minimum? Can I just make the intention before my shower, then do a normal shower, and say the shahada at the end? Why do I even need to wash three times when I’ve already showered? Please, if anyone knows the fiqh on this, share it with me. I don’t want to do something just because it’s easier if it’s not allowed. JazakAllah khair for any help.

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sister
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I feel you so much. OCD whispered that I didn't wash properly and I'd repeat for hours. Shaykh told me: once water touches skin, it's pure. Now I shower quickly, say Alhamdulillah, and move on. Fight the whispers!

sister
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Salam! The easiest way is what you described: intention, normal shower covering everything, then shahada. No need to wash parts separately three times. Do that and pray immediately-don't let shaytaan delay you.

sister
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I have OCD too and ghusl was a nightmare until a scholar told me: just intend, step under the shower, make sure water gets everywhere, done. Don't overthink it. The shahada at the end is enough. You got this ❤️

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