Oh, trypophobia can really be a peculiar experience, right? So, you’re definitely not alone in feeling like a bizarre discomfort when looking at clusters of holes. The exact cause isn’t fully known, but people do think it may be, evolutionary speaking, linked to our instincts. The idea is maybe we’re wired to react to small patterns coz they resemble things like poisonous animals or signs of disease. Not everyone experiences it intensely, though, so it’s not totally universal.
Now about whether it’s a true phobia, it kinda sits in a grey area. It’s not officially listed in the big mental health diagnostic manuals, but that doesn’t mean those shivers aren’t real! People’s reactions can vary a lot too—from mild discomfort to stronger sensations like nausea or anxiety.
Managing it? Well, in Ayurveda, balance and harmony are key. I’d be looking at your doshas—Vata, Pitta and Kapha—and see where there might be some imbalance. If you’re experiencing strong feelings like anxiety or disgust, it might indicate a Vata or Pitta imbalance. You can start with grounding and calming practices like yoga or pranayama. Spending time in nature can really help, too.
Diet-wise, nourishing your Agni (digestive fire) is always good, so maybe try warm, easy-to-digest foods. Think about avoiding stimulants like too much coffee or spicy foods as they might exacerbate your symptoms.
For immediate relief, simple techniques like focused breathing or mindfulness can be beneficial. And you’re right, exposure therapy isn’t for everyone, if you don’t like it, don’t do it! Instead, you can focus on building comfort with neutral or pleasant visuals, which might desensitize the reaction over time indirectly without forcing direct confrontation.
Avoidance can sometimes reinforce the discomfort, but it’s also okay to protect yourself. It’s about balance—don’t force yourself, but gently nudge comfort boundaries bit by bit.
Every person’s experience varies, so try small experiments and see what works for you!
