Not sure where to start?
Try the Personal Concerns Inventory (PCI) to clarify what to focus on, or start with Relaxation Therapy for guided meditation.
Foundational Research & Theoretical Sources
The sources below represent the foundational research and theoretical frameworks that support the Mulry Method and In The Zone Skills Training. These works explore Social Learning Theory, Internal Locus of Control, Polyvagal Theory, neurophysiology, and performance psychology — providing the scientific basis for the strategies used throughout the program.
Social Learning Theory & Locus of Control
Julian Rotter, Social Learning and Clinical Psychology
This 1954 classic presents Rotter’s view of personality as an interaction between the individual and environment, laying the groundwork for Social Learning Theory.
Herbert Lefcourt, Research With the Locus of Control Construct
Seminal work expands on Rotter’s internal vs. external control concept and its real-world implications for behavior, stress response, and motivation.
Neurophysiological Foundations
Stephen Porges, The Polyvagal Theory
This volume compiles decades of Porges’s research behind the groundbreaking Polyvagal Theory, which explains how the autonomic nervous system unconsciously shapes social engagement, trust, and emotional regulation.
Mulry Method & Original Contributions
R.C. Mulry, The Partnership That Works (White Paper, 2020)
A 3-step model integrating worker-employer cooperation, internal locus of control, and interpersonal trust to promote total health and safety.
R.C. Mulry, A Functional Psychological Approach to Low Back Pain
Presented at the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons Symposium (1981), this article explores psychological contributions to chronic pain.
R.C. Mulry, Special Psychological Components of Chronic Low Back Pain
Companion article exploring cognitive-behavioral strategies in addressing chronic pain.
Books by Dr. Mulry
Ray Mulry, In The Zone: Making Winning Moments Your Way in Life
This original paperback edition (1995) presents key elements of mind/body mastery—Relaxation, Balance, Flexibility, and Focus—with exercises to improve peak performance across life domains. While no longer in print, used copies may still be found online.
Reaume Carroll Mulry, Teeing Off With The Masters
A sport psychology novel and sequel to In The Zone, this creative work follows shattered PGA golfer Charlie Botts and his therapist/caddy “Doc” as they play a symbolic round of golf inside a mental institution. Through rich storytelling and appearances by legendary players, the book explores the neurophysiology of focus, rhythmic flow, emotional control, and the core mental variables behind peak performance. While no longer in print, used copies may still be found online.
From Theory to Practice
These sources highlight the depth and range of theory behind the Mulry Method. If you’re ready to begin applying these insights in your own life, start by completing the Personal Concerns Inventory—a practical first step toward focused, meaningful change.
All In The Zone Skills Training Lessons
- 1. In The Zone Skills Training – Introduction
- 2. Relaxed Moves
- 3. Soft Stomach Breathing
- 4. Position of Comfort and Relaxation Therapy
- 5. Autonomic Nervous System
- 6. Relaxed Flow vs Stress and Tension
- 7. Power Moves
- 8. Power Breathing Routine
- 9. Polyvagal Theory 1 – Introduction
- 10. Polyvagal Theory 2 – Mind-Body Integration
- 11. Polyvagal Theory 3 – The Vagus Nerve
- 12. Social Learning Theory 1 – Introduction
- 13. Social Learning Theory 2 – How To Maximize Success
- 14. Social Learning Theory 3 – How Perception Shapes Behavior
- 15. Social Learning Theory 4 – Expanding Constructs
- 16. Social Learning Theory 5 – The Language Of Science
- 17. Social Learning Theory 6 – Internal and External Locus of Control
- 18. Social Learning Theory 7 – Reward Value & Self-Navigation
- 19. Social Learning Theory 8 – Become A Self-Learner
- 20. Social Learning Theory 9 – Self-Navigation
- 21. Social Learning Theory 10 – Applying SLT
- 22. Social Learning Theory 11 – Be Your Own Coach
- 23. Social Learning Theory 12 – Reward Value
- 24. Social Learning Theory 13 – Behavior Potential
- 25. Social Learning Theory 14 – Expectancy
- 26. Social Learning Theory 15 – Psychological Situation
- 27. Elastic Moves
- 28. Basic Stretching Routine
- 29. Advanced Stretching Routine
- 30. Total Readiness Routine
- 31. Focused Moves
- 32. Healthy Back Exercises – Section One
- 33. Healthy Back Exercises – Section Two
- 34. Healthy Back Exercises – Section Three
- 35. Healthy Back Exercises – Advanced Back Routine
- 36. Position of Strength Transfers
- 37. Polyvagal Theory 4 – Expectancy and Neuroception
- 38. Polyvagal Theory 5 – Integration
- 39. Skills Review
- 40. Welcome To The Mulry Method