Chilling Out: The Psychology of Relaxation (The Psychology of Everyday Life)

This appealing accessible reference volume enables readers to easily understand what creates and constitutes stress―an unavoidable part of modern life―and learn about the psychology behind relaxation.What is stress from a psychological and physiological perspective? Why is it important to unwind and relax? Can some forms of stress actually be good? And how do people outside the United States relax? Part of Greenwoods The Psychology of Everyday Life series this book defines in non-scientific language what stress and relaxation are addresses factors related to our daily experiences with stress identifies the negative effects of stress and describes how to reduce stress and achieve relaxation. Readers will see how relaxation techniques are practiced around the world―and by people of all ages―and learn how chilling out can not only make you happier but may also help you live longer.The book also provides a critical-thinking section that challenges readers with questions such as Are relaxation drinks effective? The opposing viewpoints written by scholars encourage readers to consider the evidence on both sides of the debate and decide for themselves which answer makes the most sense. The scenarios presented in the book help readers to see the practical applications for relaxation techniques via an analysis of what is happening in the example and why particular recommendations may be made.Focuses on examples and applications from everyday life rather than abstract academic theories to ensure that the information is highly accessible and relevant to readers seeking to understand how their stressful lives may be harming them and wanting specific strategies for improvementIncludes real-world scenarios that demonstrate the positive and negative effects of different relaxation techniques in different circumstancesFeatures a glossary of unfamiliar technical terms related to physiology psychology and psychological diagnosisIncludes contributions from scholars debating major issues related to the psychology of relaxation