4 out of 4 stars
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It has often been said that having a 'healthy' fear is good for one's survival. But, what happens when anxiety becomes a dominating force in a person's life, and it seems to dictate and limit choices? In his book, Conquering Your Stress and Fears, Gustavo Kinrys, M.D offers his professional advice on how to effectively get emotions under control to live a better quality of life.
The book is divided into four highly organized chapters. To begin, the author educates readers about the signs, symptoms, and causes of anxiety, stress, and fear. While this may sound elementary, he presents useful information so that it can be determined what is considered within reasonable limits and where some individuals might need to seek out medical help. From worrying, insomnia, to panic attacks, he leaves no stone unturned to expose areas of concern and emphasizes the need to address these issues due to the physical toll it can take on the body over time.
Following this insightful knowledge, the next part of the book introduces a comprehensive list of nutritionally based remedies. While he does not discourage from using traditional forms of medicine, he highlights the power that nutrition can play in helping our bodies 'feel good' by bringing our natural chemicals back in line. For example, have you ever been up all night thinking about every single problem that you are facing? You may not know this, but according to this author, a lack of serotonin may cause you to experience insomnia. This causes the brain to stay awake, and sleep becomes elusive. While we might think that the worrying is keeping us up, it might be that this vital chemical is running low causing us a sleepless night. His point is that with supplements providing proper nutrients, we can find relief we may not have considered before.
Were you aware that lavender was used long ago to tame lions and tigers? In the third chapter, the author delves into the use of herbal remedies that have been scientifically proven to reduce the symptoms of stress. Again, you will find a detailed list of these, and he gives a thorough explanation of each one and how they calm the mind. I found this section especially interesting because I have been a green tea drinker for years, and I had no idea all of the mental health benefits contained in my cup.
In the final section of this useful guidebook, he suggests utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy to combat inner conflicts by making oneself aware of negative thoughts and exchanging them for positive thinking. Also included are ideas on how to incorporate relaxation techniques, a physical exercise routine or various forms of meditation. He leaves it up to readers to explore what would work best for them.
My favorite part of the book was about the virtual reality techniques that are being used to help people deal with fears, namely phobias. What a wonderful addition to the field of mental health where conditions can be presented in a safe environment to help suffers from adverse fear. He speaks about the terror of flying and how people can be put in a virtual plane for a ride right in a clinician's office. This gives participants a chance to go at their own pace without the constraints of trying to use a real airplane and possibly having other people around.
Readers will find at the end of each chapter a table for reference with all the treatment options listed and their benefits. I thought this was a nice touch for a quick look at what had been discussed, and if a person would want to pursue any of his suggestions, this makes it quite simple. Also, this author cautions through the entire material to discuss any supplement taking or changes with a physician. Some drugs can interact negatively with natural remedies, so he wants to be sure that no one is harmed by his advice.
I am giving this book a 4 out of 4 stars for its impeccable writing in which I only found one error. About halfway through the book, I wrote in large capital letters in my notebook: OPTIMISM. For those looking for relief from depression, anxiety or fear, you will find resources compiled into an easy to read format that may help you get on your way to living a more peace-filled life.
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Conquering your Stress & Fears
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