If you start to feel sick or nauseated when washing pots or dishes because of the idea of touching someone else's eaten food, you might be experiencing a form of disgust sensitivity or a specific aversion related to food remnants. This reaction is not uncommon, and there are a few things you can try to help alleviate your discomfort:
Use Gloves: Consider wearing disposable or reusable gloves while washing dishes. This can create a barrier between your hands and the food remnants, reducing the sensory experience that triggers your discomfort.
Rinse Thoroughly: Before washing the dishes, rinse off as much food residue as possible using hot water. This can help minimize the contact with solid pieces of food.
Use Tongs or Utensils: If you're particularly averse to touching the food remnants, use tongs or other utensils to remove larger pieces from the pots or dishes before washing.
Break Down the Task: If the idea of dealing with all the dishes at once is overwhelming, try breaking down the task into smaller, manageable steps. Wash one dish at a time, take breaks, and allow yourself to feel more in control of the situation.
Deep Breathing and Relaxation Techniques: When you feel overwhelmed, practice deep breathing or relaxation techniques to help reduce stress and anxiety.
Visual Distractions: Place something visually appealing nearby, like fresh flowers or a favorite picture, to shift your focus away from the task and create a more positive atmosphere.
Consider Professional Help: If your aversion to touching food remnants becomes severe and interferes with your daily life, consider seeking help from a therapist or counselor. They can help you explore the underlying causes of your discomfort and work on coping strategies.
Delegate the Task: If possible, ask someone else in your household to take care of washing the pots or dishes if you find it particularly distressing.
Remember, it's essential to be kind to yourself and acknowledge your feelings. If this aversion is causing significant distress or impacting your ability to perform essential tasks, seeking support from a professional can be beneficial in understanding and addressing the issue more effectively.