Seven professionals from the fields of medicine and psychology contribute chapters drawn from their clinical experience, providing accessible, engaging information on natural approaches to mental health. For the first time, this book clearly explains the essential link between mental and physical health and gives practical, evidenced-based tools for developing a lifestyle that prevents illness and supports mental and physical well-being. Stable mental functioning is predicated on three fundamental, physical elements: nutritious food, restorative sleep and regular exercise. These three elements work together to ensure that the body's biochemistry (i.e. the complex combination of chemicals that keep us feeling well) is functioning at optimal levels. Three further elements, daily practices of meditation, mindfulness and compassion, have been shown to have powerful therapeutic effects by calming, nurturing and fortifying the heart and mind. The seventh element, counselling, is a process that can help consolidate this synthesis of healing principles, facilitating and sustaining long-term change. "e;How to Be Happy and Healthy"e; comprises seven stand-alone chapters, one devoted to each of these critical elements. This landmark book is essential reading not only for those with mental health problems but also for their families, health professionals of all disciplines, and anyone who wishes to take control of their mental and emotional well being.

Seven professionals from the fields of medicine and psychology contribute chapters drawn from their clinical experience, providing accessible, engaging information on natural approaches to mental health. For the first time, this book clearly explains the essential link between mental and physical health and gives practical, evidenced-based tools for developing a lifestyle that prevents illness and supports mental and physical well-being. Stable mental functioning is predicated on three fundamental, physical elements: nutritious food, restorative sleep and regular exercise. These three elements work together to ensure that the body's biochemistry (i.e. the complex combination of chemicals that keep us feeling well) is functioning at optimal levels. Three further elements, daily practices of meditation, mindfulness and compassion, have been shown to have powerful therapeutic effects by calming, nurturing and fortifying the heart and mind. The seventh element, counselling, is a process that can help consolidate this synthesis of healing principles, facilitating and sustaining long-term change. "e;How to Be Happy and Healthy"e; comprises seven stand-alone chapters, one devoted to each of these critical elements. This landmark book is essential reading not only for those with mental health problems but also for their families, health professionals of all disciplines, and anyone who wishes to take control of their mental and emotional well being.