Review of Nervous Energy: Harness the Power of Your Anxiety
Posted: 03 Sep 2021, 13:31
[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Nervous Energy: Harness the Power of Your Anxiety" by Dr. Chloe Carmichael.]
Do you plan your goals to the tiniest details? Evaluate choices until you get analysis paralysis? Are you constantly trying to keep ahead of your to-do list—even if the due date is months away? If the answer is “yes” then this book may have some pointers for you.
Nervous Energy: Harness the Power of Your Anxiety, by Dr. Chloe Carmichael, is a step-by-step guide for “high functioning” people. It provides nine techniques to reroute and harness “nervous energy”—rather than collapse under it. The book is part of the author’s Nervous Therapy Approach, which she developed for her clients.
Two major concepts act as anchors and are repeated throughout the book: “high functioning” person and “nervous energy”. To fully grasp (and appreciate) Carmichael’s advice, it is imperative to understand those concepts—or else, continuing the book would be grim; I did have to reread those parts. On the bright side, this former yoga instructor gives plenty of examples to illustrate her points. For example, a helpful list of traits comparing a high and basic functioning person.
Be prepared to be engaged while reading—a pen and paper would be good. The nine techniques come with various self-assessment questions and charts. It is done purposely to find the one that works best for you. For example, the popular Three-Part Breath technique teaches mindfulness. The “Mind Mapping” and the “To-Do List with Emotions” are spiced with an interesting new spin. Honestly, picking a favorite is hard; but if pressed, I’d go with “The Zone of Control” and the “Worry Time” approaches. I won't give them all away, but each method is well-explained for anyone who wants to try them.
Carmichael knows her “high-functioning” clients’ needs for constant activity; the level of interaction in her book is a bonus and a positive aspect. For those in a hurry, the main points are written in bold. In addition, all nine techniques are summarized in Chapter 3. There is also a website.
The sunny yellow cover art was puzzling, considering the topic. Sometimes, yellow is used as a high-energy shade; it is also connected to happiness and joviality. Whether the choice is intentional, it appropriately and cleverly illustrates “nervous energy”.
My only woe is the font size of the printed version; the e-book would solve that easily. Nevertheless, I am satisfied with my hardcover copy. I noted a few marketing-like phrases. It didn’t make sense since the book sold itself—it was that good.
I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. The font size hardly warrants a lesser rating. Carmichael is practical, straightforward, and sensical, and her guide is tremendously worthwhile. I eagerly consumed all her tips.
As the author mentioned, the book is not a replacement for therapy; therefore, anyone with severe anxiety should see a professional. Also, a certain amount of concentration is needed; so, I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone unwilling to give it the time. I recommend this book to anyone curious about "nervous energy". Also, I recommend it to readers who enjoy psychology and self-help books.
******
Nervous Energy: Harness the Power of Your Anxiety
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Do you plan your goals to the tiniest details? Evaluate choices until you get analysis paralysis? Are you constantly trying to keep ahead of your to-do list—even if the due date is months away? If the answer is “yes” then this book may have some pointers for you.
Nervous Energy: Harness the Power of Your Anxiety, by Dr. Chloe Carmichael, is a step-by-step guide for “high functioning” people. It provides nine techniques to reroute and harness “nervous energy”—rather than collapse under it. The book is part of the author’s Nervous Therapy Approach, which she developed for her clients.
Two major concepts act as anchors and are repeated throughout the book: “high functioning” person and “nervous energy”. To fully grasp (and appreciate) Carmichael’s advice, it is imperative to understand those concepts—or else, continuing the book would be grim; I did have to reread those parts. On the bright side, this former yoga instructor gives plenty of examples to illustrate her points. For example, a helpful list of traits comparing a high and basic functioning person.
Be prepared to be engaged while reading—a pen and paper would be good. The nine techniques come with various self-assessment questions and charts. It is done purposely to find the one that works best for you. For example, the popular Three-Part Breath technique teaches mindfulness. The “Mind Mapping” and the “To-Do List with Emotions” are spiced with an interesting new spin. Honestly, picking a favorite is hard; but if pressed, I’d go with “The Zone of Control” and the “Worry Time” approaches. I won't give them all away, but each method is well-explained for anyone who wants to try them.
Carmichael knows her “high-functioning” clients’ needs for constant activity; the level of interaction in her book is a bonus and a positive aspect. For those in a hurry, the main points are written in bold. In addition, all nine techniques are summarized in Chapter 3. There is also a website.
The sunny yellow cover art was puzzling, considering the topic. Sometimes, yellow is used as a high-energy shade; it is also connected to happiness and joviality. Whether the choice is intentional, it appropriately and cleverly illustrates “nervous energy”.
My only woe is the font size of the printed version; the e-book would solve that easily. Nevertheless, I am satisfied with my hardcover copy. I noted a few marketing-like phrases. It didn’t make sense since the book sold itself—it was that good.
I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. The font size hardly warrants a lesser rating. Carmichael is practical, straightforward, and sensical, and her guide is tremendously worthwhile. I eagerly consumed all her tips.
As the author mentioned, the book is not a replacement for therapy; therefore, anyone with severe anxiety should see a professional. Also, a certain amount of concentration is needed; so, I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone unwilling to give it the time. I recommend this book to anyone curious about "nervous energy". Also, I recommend it to readers who enjoy psychology and self-help books.
******
Nervous Energy: Harness the Power of Your Anxiety
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
. Thank you for this informative review and the recommendation!
your comment and thanks for stopping by!