Understanding the nature of stress, identifying the source of it and having the tools to successfully make changes are important in preventing the negative health consequences that stress will have on you. Remember to deal with the cause, not just the consequences. While there are many different kinds of stress and many tools or techniques available to help resolve it, outside assistance is usually required to bring about the needed change. Reading the right book may be all that it takes.

Following is a list of books that are either best-sellers or highly recommended:

The Relaxation and Stress Reduction Workbook by Martha Davis - a practical stress-management workbook filled with insightful self-assessment tests and stress reduction techniques.

The Book of Stress Survival by Alix Kirsta - although older, this is one of the best books on stress management. It is clearly laid out, practical, comprehensive and a pleasure to read.

Time Management from the Inside Out by Julie Morgenstern - she emphasizes that the most important thing readers should do is create a time management system that fits one's personal style, be it either spontaneous and easily distracted from, or highly regimented and efficient. "Just as everyone's living room looks different, reflecting the individual's or family's values and priorities, everyone's time management system will look different, reflecting what's important to him or her", she explains.

The Book of Stress Survival - How to Relax and Live Positively by Alix Kirsta - a well-presented, sensible approach to stress management. It covers many important areas that are completely ignored by most other books.

Getting Things Done by David Allen - a guide to staying on top of it all in a world where communication and responsibilities are increasing exponentially. Part I describes the game, Part II coaches you through implementing the system, and Part III explores the subtler and more profound benefits that you will experience when you incorporate these core principles and proven tricks into your work and your life.

Don't Sweat the Small Stuff - and it's all small stuff by Richard Carlson - offers 100 meditations designed to make you appreciate being alive, keep your emotions (especially anger and dissatisfaction) in proper perspective, and cherish other people.

Here are eight of the elements found in studies to contribute to wellness: Get regular exercise, avoid being overweight, get an education, marry and love, be future-oriented, be thankful and forgiving, empathize with others, and be active with other
people. Wealth and income aren't on the list because they were poor predictors of success as a human being. [Aging Well by George E. Vaillant, M.D.]