The Origin of Everyday Moods: Managing Energy, Tension, and Stress

by Robert E. Thayer

Book Overview

Caffeine. Candy. Sex. Shopping. Smoking. Whether we realize it or not, all of us have strategies for self-medicating ourselves when we feel threatened or overwhelmed by tension or tiredness. But why does one person respond to pressure by going for a five-mile run, while another indulges in a five-hour drinking marathon? Why do some of us crave companionship, while others just want to be alone? And what really helps most to reduce tension and increase...

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0195087917
• ISBN13: 9780195087918
• Release Date: May 1996
• Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA
• Length: 288 Pages
• Weight: 1.25 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 6.3" x 9.4"

Customer Reviews

An excellent book for both laypersons and scholars.

This book is written by one of the foremost experts in the area of the study and theory of moods. Dr. Thayer's pioneering research in this area extends over a period of two decades. The book itself offers a scientific understanding of mood and arousal. It is rich in ideas as well as practical approaches to mood self regulation. In particular it presents a sophisicated but understandable theory of moods. The practical side of the book and one that appeals most to the average individual involves a framework, based on empirical research, on how to manage one's moods in order increase personal energy and calmness. This book contains very useful activities to assist in mood self regulation and self understanding.

Great read on a fascinating subject: moods

I just couldn`t stop reading once I got started. Thayer`s concept of how and why moods occur is not only easy to understand but also absolutely plausible. So much so that I've tried out a few things and found they work. It doesn`t mean that I go on 5-minute brisk walks every time I feel low, but since now I know (most of the times) where that feeling comes from it seems a lot less disturbing.

Learn the two things that affect EVERYONE's feelings...

Robert Thayer's book has enlightened me to the one area I have never understood, good and bad feelings. He explains how two things, Tension, and Energy, result in you're being upset, happy, content, crabby, and depressed. Read how you can change your moods by having an awareness of how high tension and low energy levels affect you. One of the best books I've every read that has changed my life for all time!

A successful approach to understanding an altering moods.

This book offers a comprehensive review of various antecedents of everyday moods and provides useful information to modify the effects of negative mood states. Reading this book has helped me to understand the relationship between my behavior and my moods, and has given me the knowledge to improve the quality of my relationships with others.

A superb exploration of everyday moods.

For the sophisticated reader, this book has everything -- a compelling theory of why moods are the way they are, and the best way of managing them, coupled with complete scientific references, and good writing