280 pg, paper, ’00

The Relaxation and Stress Reduction Workbook broke new ground when it was first published in 1980, detailing easy, step-by-step techniques for calming the body and mind in an increasingly over stimulated world. Now in its sixth edition, this workbook, highly regarded by therapists and their clients, remains the go-to source for stress reduction strategies that can be incorporated into even the busiest lives.

This new edition is updated with powerful relaxation techniques based on the latest research, and draws from a variety of proven treatment methods, including progressive relaxation, autogenics, self-hypnosis, visualization, and mindfulness and acceptance therapy.

In the first chapter, you'll explore your own stress triggers and symptoms, and learn how to create a personal plan for stress reduction. Each chapter features a different method for relaxation and stress reduction, explains why the method works, and provides on-the-spot exercises you can do to apply that method when you feel stressed. The result is a comprehensive yet accessible workbook that will help you to curb stress and cultivate a more peaceful life.

CONTENTS:

1 – How to React to Stress
2 – Body Awareness
3 – Breathing
4 – Progressive Relaxation
5 – Meditation
6 – Visualization
7 – Applied Relaxation Training
8 – Self-Hypnosis
9 – Autogenics
10 – Brief Combination Techniques
11 – Recording Your Own Relaxation Tape
12 – Refuting Irrational Ideas
13 – Thought Stopping
14 – Worry Control
15 – Coping Skills Training
16 – Goal Setting and Time Management
17 – Assertiveness Training
18 – Job Stress Management
19 – Nutrition
20 – Exercise
21 – When It Doesn’t Come Easy—Getting Unstuck

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

Martha Davis, Ph.D., was a psychologist in the department of psychiatry at Kaiser Permanente Medical Center in Santa Clara, CA, where she practiced individual, couple, and group psychotherapy for more than thirty years prior to her retirement. She is coauthor of Thoughts and Feelings and The Relaxation and Stress Reduction Workbook.

Elizabeth Robbins Eshelman, MSW, is a licensed clinical social worker who worked as a staff operations consultant for the marketing and internet services group of the Kaiser Foundation Health Plan. She is now retired and lives in the San Francisco Bay Area. She is preparing to become a certified coach for executives and other individuals and plans to use skills and techniques from this book in her practice.

Matthew McKay, Ph.D., is clinical director of Haight Ashbury Psychological Services in San Francisco, CA, and a professor at the Wright Institute in Berkeley, CA. He is coauthor of The Relaxation and Stress Reduction Workbook, Thoughts and Feelings, Self-Esteem, and other titles. His books combined have sold more than 2 million copies. McKay received his Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology. In private practice, he specializes in the cognitive behavioral treatment of anxiety, anger, and depression.

REVIEWS:

“It is relaxing just to read this book, and to know so many techniques are at hand in one place…one of the most complete and intelligent compilations I’ve seen.”
— Dr. Harold Greenwald, author of Direct Decision Therapy

“An excellent resource for putting together your own tailor-made approach to dealing with stress.”
— Medical Self-Care Magazine