The guided meditations and music on this CD calm the mind, soothe the emotions and create a state of deep relaxation in the body. The Pure Relaxation CD includes three powerful meditations, ranging from a brief relaxation... more » break to a guided relaxation to let go of tension throughout the entire body. It also includes a selection of 30 minutes of extremely relaxing music. The "Mini-Relaxation Break" can be used anytime throughout the day, at home or at work. "Unwinding" is perfect at the end of the day to relax and be refreshed for the evening. "Total Body Relaxation" systematically dissolves tension throughout the entire body. These meditations are unique in that they guide the listener to relax effortlessly. The body and mind know how to relax -- we just need to give them "permission". Relaxation is about letting go. To accomplish things throughout the day requires effort and focus. Many guided relaxation CDs require you to focus on doing something -- tensing and relaxing muscles, breathing in a certain way, imagining something, etc. This CD is different. It will help you to let go of effort in order to relax completely.« less
The guided meditations and music on this CD calm the mind, soothe the emotions and create a state of deep relaxation in the body. The Pure Relaxation CD includes three powerful meditations, ranging from a brief relaxation break to a guided relaxation to let go of tension throughout the entire body. It also includes a selection of 30 minutes of extremely relaxing music. The "Mini-Relaxation Break" can be used anytime throughout the day, at home or at work. "Unwinding" is perfect at the end of the day to relax and be refreshed for the evening. "Total Body Relaxation" systematically dissolves tension throughout the entire body. These meditations are unique in that they guide the listener to relax effortlessly. The body and mind know how to relax -- we just need to give them "permission". Relaxation is about letting go. To accomplish things throughout the day requires effort and focus. Many guided relaxation CDs require you to focus on doing something -- tensing and relaxing muscles, breathing in a certain way, imagining something, etc. This CD is different. It will help you to let go of effort in order to relax completely.
"I've listened to a number of very good meditation and relaxation audios in the past and this is certainly one of the best I've used.
I always felt the voice that guides the meditation is as important as the content and music to promote a relaxed state, and Mary Maddux's voice is the most lulling I have ever heard. Along with the beautiful, calming instrumental music, the combination induces an alpha state in the listener very quickly, making us very receptive to the relaxation suggestions.
I also thought it was great to have a variety of relaxation exercises, ranging from a short 7 minute break to longer sessions as well as the wonderful music by itself that can be used as an instrumental. I haven't seen this many options on any of the other relaxation audios I've used in the past.
Very effective and can be used in a variety of ways--what more could one ask for in a relaxation CD?
"
The narration was a little distracting
Melissa Mcgowan | Las Vegas, NV | 08/17/2005
(2 out of 5 stars)
"While I found the music in this CD to be very relaxing and effective, I found the narration to be a little distracting. Mary Maddux's voice is nice and soothing, but she drags her words out. It was extremely hard for me to concentrate on what she was saying because I was constantly battling the temptation to laaaaugh ouuuuuut louuuuud. It just seemed too stereotypical to me.
I also found the "Total Relaxation" track to be less effective than other comparable programs I have tried. This program starts at the feet and moves up to the head. I have found that the programs like "Drifting Downstream" by Kimeron Hardin Ph.D. that start at the head and move down to the feet work better on me."
Deeply Relaxing
Jerry P | Georgia | 11/03/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I have tried many guided meditation CDs in the past for relaxing and de-stressing. This is definitely one of the best. The music is so soothing and pleasurable that even by itself would be very effective as a relaxation tape. Add to that the narration which is gently reassuring and leads you to a very calm place. I like all of the tracks, but especially the "Total Body" selection which works great as a bedtime prep for a good night's sleep. Overall a great CD."
Very Relaxing and More
Jan "Mystick" | Orange Coast | 08/27/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I was looking for a tape that would help with anxiety and stress, and this was very good for relaxing and recovering from a tough day. The combo of voice and music is very calming. Especially the music, the most serene I've ever heard!
I like the fact that there are both shorter and longer selections to use when needed. The guided body relaxation is really effective right before going to sleep. Actually all of the cuts are good for settling down and drifting off to sleep.
What a great resource!"
Real relaxation from this wonderful CD
Margaret Jones | Southern California | 09/30/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I am absolutely amazed by this! I was extremely skeptical, thinking this couldn't possibly work. BUT I was wrong. I was able to completely relax, which I haven't done in years, truly! The CD concentrated on all areas of the body and kept the mind relaxed by focusing on the various body parts. The background music was very soothing. Love it. Thank you so much!"