The Touch Remedy: Hands-On Solutions to De-stress Your Life

Ebbin, a certified massage instructor, proffers an educational manual designed to decrease stress in families and promote healthy, happy living. She explains that touch is not only an effective remedy for the anxieties of contemporary life but can also deepen intimate bonds between individuals. Ebbin shares reports that most Americans have limited daily physical contact with others, a deficiency she names “skin hunger.” Starting with basics such as touch therapy techniques and the stress-touch connection, this comprehensive book is a gem for its focus on self-care as well as touch remedies for women, men, intimate partners, children, the elderly, the sick, and even pets. In each chapter, Ebbin lists clear instructions for various targeted therapies drawn from alternative medicine; these include the “headache reflexology remedy” and the “weekend warrior deep-tissue remedy.” Sprinkled throughout are gorgeous photographs that illustrate the remedies and add an artful touch to the guide. While the therapeutic value of touch may seem like common sense to some, this book will still enlighten and help believers and non-believers alike. Agent: Andrew Stuart, Stuart Agency. (Apr.)