In Stress Resets: How to Soothe Your Body and Mind in Minutes, psychologist Jennifer L. Taitz (How to Be Single and Happy) shares evidence-based techniques for quickly defusing moments of stress. The book shares a number of easy tricks--something as simple as sitting down to listen to calming music can have a powerful impact--and delves into the types of thought patterns that can create, intensify, and prolong stress.
Research indicates that the way people label and define feelings can determine both their performance under pressure and even their emotional experience of stressful moments. For example, individuals who tell themselves they are excited to perform karaoke can change how they actually feel about it. Although chanting "I am excited" before a big presentation might seem like a bit of hocus-pocus, studies show it can change both the emotional impact and the outcome.
Stories of real-life challenges help readers better understand how stress can spiral and what to do about it. For example, Max frequently got stuck overthinking, continuously ruminating on the same problem, which resulted in chronic distress. He believed that frequently pondering his problems might help him solve them, but when he really examined his life, it became clear it was making him miserable without solving anything. Understanding why he did this helped him let go of overthinking and shift into a healthier mindset.
Taitz draws on both scientific research and her own extensive experience teaching behavioral skills to manage big emotions. She shares a wealth of insights that can help readers improve their moods--and their lives. --Carol Caley, writer