Review:
This workbook provides a comprehensive understanding of stress and relaxation in everyday language. Stress is clearly defined, possible sources of stress explained, and stress prevention and relief techniques are presented. The techniques can be learned and completed with minimal supervision. Each technique is presented with descriptions of how and why it works, what its limitations are, and step-by-step instructions on proper use. The authors give recommendations for advanced reading for each technique. The authors maintain a wellness focus by introducing physical and emotional awareness early and then incorporating it throughout the rest of the text. Creating a balanced lifestyle is promoted through topics on balancing work, personal values, and self-care throughout the workbook.

The Relaxation and Stress Reduction Workbook can be useful for individuals wishing to improve personal coping skills, practitioners running groups and workshops, and counselors to utilize as homework to complement individual or group therapy. I have used this and previous editions in private practice for nearly 10 years with great success. I have clients with stress and relaxation issues read the first chapter. If they are motivated to create change in their lives, I then have them purchase the workbook and read the background section on each technique. We discuss what they have read and choose the techniques that seem most appealing to them. The chapters on body awareness, nutrition, and exercise are standard homework assignments as those chapters help clients remember (or learn) the basics of self-care.