When I Relax I Feel Guilty

by Tim Hansel

In our no-fun, all-work, too-intensive world of demands and deadlines, Tim Hansel's WHEN I RELAX I FEEL GUILTY is required reading. To all who find themselves caught in a hurry-worry sin-drome. This book is recommended by Chuck Swindoll; he suggests that you take your time and read it slowly, to tell yourself the truth. Allow the words in this book to break the spell of monotonous and mediocre existence. Who knows? You may get so relaxed you'll have to cancel your plans for a nervous breakdown!

Genres: Christian, Nonfiction, Christian Living, Psychology, Personal Development

150 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1979

Reviews

[Mary Kenyon]

Though this book was written before the era of Facebook and other Internet time sucks, it is surprisingly right on target. Out of print, I picked up a used copy and admit to defacing it by tearing out the prayer the begins the book and glued it inside the front endpaper of my journal. I've been praying it each day to remind myself to pay attention to the moments in each day, to slow down and just breathe.

[David]

Must read for those who have to be active ALL THE TIME. If you can't go on a two week vacation without feeling guilty. YOU need this book!!!

I'd especially recommend this book for type A people who always have to be doing some project or action. Even if you are able to sit still for a couple of hours, you would do well to see what makes most people so uncomfortable with REST and leisure.

Insightful and full of practical help for the overactive.

[Troy Stauffer]

A book about the balance of work, play, and rest in the life of a Christian. I can't imagine what Hansel would think of it culture today as he wrote of the distractions of media and tendency of being to busy back in 1979! I appreciated his challenges and also the many creative ideas and ways to enjoy life more.

[Cherie Waggie]

Tim Hansel tells us we should learn to relax, and he makes excellent points. He means learn to relax, not be idle, but relax, and learn to live life.

[Lauren]

Really only applicable to reread from chapter 8 on. First half can convince someone to be too relaxed so much so that they accomplish nothing. Chapter 8 on does a better job of establishing how to use this mindset successfully

[Dick Pilskog]

Good book but it relied on Christian principals. Very inspiring book and it made me think of leisure and getting out of your comfort zone.

[Mindi]

Good book.
Lots of lists.
A little pedantic at the end, but helpful throughout.

[Kayla]

picked this up at a vintage market and wanted to see a pre-internet example of this kind of book. turns out it is still relevant

[Olivia Alferink]

Such an amazing book, I would really recommend if you struggle with resting well

[Carol]

This book was not what I expected, but I ended up enjoying it and getting good advice from it regardless. Many of us put off relaxation or enjoyment unnecessarily. This self-help book advises that it is good for us to schedule and prioritize relaxing moments, if not days, for our well being. I agree.

[Tim]

The first half of the book is basically very repetitive. Here's a summary: We are all too busy. Finally, in the second half, he gets to some practical suggestions for purposeful rest. I like the overall concept that rest is vital to our existence, and I don't think we are nearly intentional enough about our rest time. All in all, a quick, worthwhile read.

[Mike]

A Northern California boy, Hansel makes a case for including all of nature in our worship and play into our liturgy.

[Jessica Lowery]

it was just ok - the beginning was really thought-provoking, but i didn't care for the last several chapters. just a bit cheesy for my taste.