Awareness Magazine: Review March/April 1995

Discovering Your Special Place (audio tape) by Charlotte Reznick, Ph.D.

Reviewed by: Sandy Gostel Perkins & Christopher Thornhill

Not only did his mom go out for the evening without him, but he had to share Grandma’s attention with his two-year-old cousin. (He learned soon after baby Ashleigh’s birth that a baby girl was pretty stiff competition.)

After several hours of sharing his toys, singing lullabies to the baby and holding back tears, it was time for bed and he just couldn’t sleep. (He has the energy that accompanies being six.) Perfect time for Grandma and Christopher to recline in a softly lit room and "review" the new tape for the magazine. This was going to be a tough test.

It started with soft musical cords. Christopher opened one eye and gave me that "oh brother" look. A soothing voice encouraged us to close our eyes and take "belly breaths". This caught his attention and he put his hand on his tummy, eagerly and began belly breathing. Then we proceeded along with the instructions. Tighten different muscles, hold, and relax. I peeked to watch Chris’ introduction to the world of relaxation. Fascinated I watched as he lifted his foot and with determination and intrigue continued to cooperate.

Dr. Reznick has obviously found the right technique and very definitely has the right voice to fulfill her promise of "a soothing guided journey to inner peace for kids 5 to 105".

Throughout the tape is the promise of "finding your special place". Chris really needed a special place that night. However, just as we were about to approach it, I heard his even deep breathing and saw his relaxed body and knew his special place right at the moment was in the world of dreams. I, however, needed to find my special place, so I gave myself the luxury of finishing the tape.

We both slept soundly that night. In the morning, I asked Chris how he liked the tape. "I tried to pay attention Grandma, but the tape made me feel so relaxed. What better recommendation?

He now calls it his "sleep tape". He discovered his special lace and loves the idea of being able to go somewhere "in his mind". His goal is to make it through an entire side before falling asleep!