Review of "Deep Relaxation CD"

Produced by: Andrew Johnson D.HYP MBSCH Reviewed by: Lesley Hampton (Summer 2007) Published by:Unwinding Publishing ISBN: 0-9550182-0-X/978 0 955 01820 6 Price: £11.50 + £1.50 p&p	Available from the BackCare Shop
As someone who suffers all too easily with the stresses of life and a demanding job, I was more than eager to review a CD which, I hoped, would help me deal with pressure in a more positive way. I have to admit that I was more than a little sceptical that it would work – as a typical type ‘A’ – I have always felt that I would be too impatient for instant results, or may become easily bored if following a relaxation CD. However, after using the CD for a fortnight, I have to say that I am impressed with the results and have noticed a definite change in myself very much for the better.
Andrew Johnson is a clinical hypnotherapist and his CD is both straightforward and accessible to use. His voice lends itself beautifully to this type of programme in that it is very easy on the ear and soothing. The programme and Andrew’s instructions are very easy to follow as he takes you into deeper and deeper stages of relaxation, beginning with a relaxation exercise concentrating on different parts of the body, and then breathing techniques. Simple visualisation techniques follow. I found his pre-programme preparation instructions useful and was pleased that he had warned me beforehand that my mind may wander at times which it did. However, the more I used this CD the easier it became to acknowledge these thoughts and then let them float out of my mind again. Even the first time I tried the programme, I found that I reached quite a deep state of relaxation, and was much calmer and at peace. This has increased with each subsequent session. I become more relaxed quicker, and more deeply relaxed, and afterwards I am left with a feeling of calm, peace and well-being which lasts for a considerable time. Andrew advises that for best results the CD should be used daily for three weeks, but if you’re like me, then you’ll notice changes from the first session. I’m quite pleasantly surprised that it’s worked so well and so quickly for me, as before trying it I really didn’t think it would. I’ll certainly be continuing using it, and looking out for other programmes Andrew Johnson has designed.