The Breakout Principle

Herbert Benson , Md , & William Proctor

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In Circulation

Would it surprise you to learn that to solve a seemingly unsolvable problem, you need to get up and leave the room? A walk in the woods will help you finish your novel? Humming can make you a better tennis player? Or completely giving up is the way to succeed? In The Breakout Principle, the bestselling author of The Relaxation Response delivers the ultimate self-help principle -- simple instructions to activate a powerful biological trigger that converts conflict and confusion into clarity and extraordinary performance, a state athletes refer to as "the zone."

More than three decades ago, Dr. Herbert Benson of the Harvard Medical School began research into why some people are devastated by stress while others thrive, turning it into brilliant achievement. Now The Breakout Principle reports the discovery of an easy-to-access inner switch that increases mental function, enhances creativity and productivity, maximizes athletic performance, and enriches spiritual life. The same internal mechanism that improves a tennis serve or golf putt strengthens your speaking skills, makes you a better negotiator, and fosters inner peace and belief. Dr. Benson and coauthor William Proctor explain the cutting-edge science behind the phenomenon in accessible language, clearly describe the four distinct phases of the Breakout, and provide simple, step-by-step instructions on how to activate the Breakout "trigger." Compelling case histories and information on how to incorporate Breakouts into daily life are woven throughout the book. Dr. Benson's previous discoveries have helped millions reduce the harmful effects of stress. The Breakout Principle now reveals how to maximize your untapped abilities and powers.

What will you learn from this book

  1. Relaxation and the Relaxation Response: The book emphasizes the importance of inducing the relaxation response in the body, which counteracts the stress response. This state promotes clarity, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.

  2. The Two-Phase Breakout Experience: Benson and Proctor introduce the two-phase process: 1) A stressor that pushes an individual to their limit, and 2) The release and relaxation that follows, leading to breakthrough moments.

  3. Stress as a Catalyst: Stress can be a catalyst for growth and breakthroughs when followed by relaxation. It's not the stress itself but the ability to recover and relax afterward that leads to breakthroughs.

  4. Mind-Body Connection: The book emphasizes the profound connection between the mind and body. Mental and emotional states directly impact physical well-being and performance.

  5. Breathing Techniques: The authors discuss the importance of breathing exercises, meditation, and mindfulness practices as tools to induce relaxation and trigger breakthrough moments.

  6. Mental State and Performance: Exploring how mental states affect performance, the book suggests that reaching a relaxed state enhances cognitive abilities and creativity.

  7. Creative Problem-Solving: Breakthroughs often occur when individuals are relaxed and in a non-stressed state. This mental state fosters innovative thinking and creative problem-solving.

  8. Physical and Mental Health Benefits: Beyond performance enhancement, embracing relaxation techniques can have a positive impact on overall health, reducing the risk of stress-related illnesses.

  9. Application in Daily Life: The book provides practical applications of the Breakout Principle in everyday life, such as in work, relationships, and personal growth.

  10. Balancing Stress and Recovery: Understanding the importance of balance between stress and relaxation is essential. Learning to manage stress and incorporate relaxation techniques is key to harnessing the Breakout Principle.

Language English
ISBN-10 0743223985
ISBN-13 9780743223980
No of pages 320
Font Size Medium
Book Publisher Scribner
Published Date 02 Mar 2004

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