Book Review: Learn to Relax : A Practical Guide to Easing Tension and Conquering Stress

Amazon.com Review nnWhile the idea that relaxation is a skill that needs to be learned may strike some as odd, the fact remains that with today's demanding schedules and hectic paces, most people don't dedicate the time necessary to maintain their own mental well-being. Daily we abuse our bodies with stress and suffer the pain of overwork and overexhaustion. Instead of reducing our levels of stress to create tranquil work atmospheres, harmonious relationships, and healthier home lives, we pride ourselves on just how much stress we can handle. This is not the way to lead a long, happy life; learning to "quiet the spirit and calm the mind" is, and Mike George teaches just that in this collection of wisdom, Learn to Relax.nnDrawing from numerous Eastern traditions--including yoga, shiatsu, Taoism, and Zen Buddhism--George presents a compilation of essays, illustrations, and quotes to teach you how to relax. There was a time, he points out, "when the quality of being was more important than the quantity of doing--when people themselves were human beings rather than human 'doings.'" We can regain the lost peace of that long-gone time. But don't expect a dry self-help manual; George gives more than just advice. Included in his book are 25 exercises to help you immediately implement the techniques he offers. The topics he covers include breathing, massage, emotional well-being, sleep enhancement, visualization, and time management.nnLearn to Relax is as soothing to read as it is to follow. Wonderfully enriched by its colorful pages and the stunning illustrations that adorn every page, the book is so beautifully presented that the simple act of flipping through the pages, pausing to read the quotes and to glance at the pictures, may help you begin to unwind. --Jenny Brown nnProduct InformationnnOffering nearly 30 ingenious and easy-to-do exercises tailor-made for busy people, "Learn to Relax" presents effective ways to ease tension at work, at home, or on the road. 130 color illustrations. nnTo view this book on Amazon.com, click here.