YOUR HEALING MIND

Mind-body therapy, ably demonstrated through case studies presented by psychiatrist Moskowitz, founder of NYU's Stress Disorders Medical Services Program. Here, Moskowitz presents his short-term--usually ten-session--program for treating a variety of stress-related disorders. In the program, patients learn to turn off the stress response and turn on the relaxation response by mastering specific techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation and abdominal breathing. They also learn to achieve voluntary control of heart rate, blood pressure, and other body mechanisms through biofeedback. Moskowitz's first case study, dealing with a couple experiencing infertility and sexual dysfunction, explains in considerable detail how the program works. Subsequent case studies show his mind-body therapy applied to a hostile type-A male at high risk for heart disease and to a patient with a complex of problems involving eating disorders, chronic fatigue, and multiple chemical sensitivities. Moskowitz knows how to inject case studies with human interest, and his are as hard to put clown as good mysteries. Sandwiched in between are discussions of how stress affects health and how to gain control over stress. While noting that most people will need a coach to succeed with a program of mind-body healing, Moskowitz provides practical advice for the self-starter. He recommends becoming one's own ""good mother"" to promote healthy self-esteem, and then gives practical instructions in breathing techniques, simple do-it-yourself feedback devices, and self-hypnosis. An upbeat, down-to-earth book that functions well both as a self-help tool and as an introduction to mind-body therapy.