The Relaxed body book

Publishers Weekly - Publisher's Weekly

Tense bodies can unwind with this practical, first-rate guide to physical repair and prevention. Straightforward, well-illustrated stretches, massages and soothers culled from a variety of therapiesSwedish massage, acupressure, yoga, ideokinesis, the Alexander and Feldenkrais techniquesare prescribed for the ailing head, face, jaw, neck, back and feet in this companion volume to the PBS-TV series Bodywatch. Special attention is paid to alleviating stress in such habitual activities as walking, eating, sex, sleep, reading, office work and housework. Best of all, this lively book is so well written that the intricacies of the bodywhether through a discussion of facial muscles or headachesare made accessible and interesting to the lay reader. Psychologist Goleman (Vital Lies, Simple Truths writes about behavior for the New York Times; Bennett-Goleman, a psychotherapist, co-directs a stress-management clinic in Massachusetts; Groch is an editor at American Health. BOMC and QPBC alternates; author tour. (May 2)

Library Journal

Here is a stress prevention manual that covers all aspects of stress management: physiological, psychological, and social. Part 1 discusses the link between the mind and the body, Part 2 deals with body tension and its alleviation, while Part 3 focuses on stress in the home and work environment. Each of the book's 16 chapters discusses a specific problem in detail, for example, headaches, backaches, insomnia. The emphasis is on the practical, with the major portion of the book composed of photographs illustrating relaxation techniques. A companion to the PBS series Bodywatch , which focuses on similar health issues. Recommended. Susan M. Unger, formerly with Chatham Coll. Lib., Pittsburgh