The association between stress and disease is well documented, from the common cold to cancer. Stress also distorts
decision making, disrupts emotional thought-processing, and compromises the health of the human spirit. Good stress
management is nothing more than common sense, but in a fast-paced, fragmented society, good sense is anything but
common. Achieving the Mind-Body-Spirit Connection serves as a wonderful reminder of what we know at the deepest
level of our being: Optimal health requires the integration, balance, and harmony of mind, body, spirit, and emotions.
Drawing upon the disciplines of psychology, physiology, sociology, theology, anthropology, mythology, and quantum
physics, Brian Luke Seaward blends the proven tenets of ageless wisdom with a score of practical ideas, suggestions,
and exercises to help you achieve harmony between mind, body, spirit, and emotions. From comic relief and hatha
yoga to guided mental imagery and music therapy, this workbook contains more than 70 exercises that serve to integrate
mind, body, and spirit as one dynamic force that can withstand the pressures of whatever stress may come your way.
Table of Contents
Introduction: The Whole Is Always Greater Than the Sum of the Parts
Acknowledgments
Part I The Wellness Mandala
Stress: A Global Epidemic
The Body: The Battlefield for the Mind's War Games
The Emotions: From a Motivation of Fear to a Motivation of Love
The Mind: The Psychology of Stress
The Spirit: The Health of the Human Spirit
Part II Effective Coping Skills
Reframing: Creating a Positive Mind-Set
Comic Relief: The Healing Power of Humor
Simple Assertiveness and Healthy Boundaries
Effective Time Management: Living with Time to Spare
Creative Problem Solving
Art Therapy
Additional Coping Skills
Part III Effective Relaxation Techniques
The Art of Calm: Relaxation Through the Five Senses
The Art of Breathing
The Art of Meditation
The Power of Mental Imagery and Visualization
Soothing Sounds: Music to Relax By
Self-Hypnosis and Autogenics
Massage Therapy
Hatha Yoga
Nutrition: Eating for a Healthy Immune System
Physical Exercise: Flushing Out the Stress Hormones
Additional Relaxation Techniques
Part IV Designing Your Personal Relaxation Program
