Relaxation Techniques: A Practical Handbook for the Health Care Professional

The third edition of Relaxation Techniques provides the health care professional with a practical introduction to a variety of approaches to relaxation, both somatic and cognitive, that may usefully contribute to patient care. Each technique is easy to teach and use, and has been demonstrated to be effective in the clinical situation. The background theory to each method is also described and its rationale spelled out, thus helping the clinician to select the appropriate technique. All the methods included are suitable for use with both small groups and individuals.

Rosemary Payne is an experienced clinical therapist with a deep understanding of the problems facing the busy practitioner. Her book aims to provide a quick and informative guide to selecting the most appropriate relaxation technique for each client. Relaxation Techniques has already established itself as an invaluable source book for all those health professionals involved in teaching relaxation.

• Focuses on the practical aspects of relaxation techniques.
• Aimed at clinicians for use with patients/clients.
• Gives the background theory to each technique.
• Includes cognitive approaches (e.g. self -awareness, imagery, autogenics, meditation, and positive self-talk).
• Includes somatic approaches (e.g. progressive relaxation, stretchings, and the Mitchell method).
• Discusses the advantages and pitfalls of each method.
• Evidence based and fully referenced.

Two new chapters on Cognitive behavioural approaches and Other techniques - including yoga, Eastern methods, body awareness therapy, massage, aromatherapy, reflex therapy

2 colour printing throughout

Most line drawings redrawn in 2-colour

Now includes guidelines for selecting the appropriate therapy for use with each individual

Psychological theory sections in chapters 1 and 3 completely rewritten and expanded

Inclusion of references to and short explanations of relevant recent research.

Rosemary A Payne, BSc, MCSP, Private Practitioner and Tutor in Relaxation Techniques, Cardiff, UK