Stress is a major cause of disease today. This book is a manual of instruction in the art of relaxation. Based on thirty years of study and experience, it is a unique synthesis of the techniques of Western therapies and Eastern mysticism. James Hewitt starts with a survey of those empirical, Western relaxation techniques which yield physical and emotional benefits: progressive relaxation, self-hypnosis, autogenic training, biofeedback, and posture and breathing exercises. These exercises relax tense minds as well as tense muscles, an open up the possibility of 'peak experiences '. Carried over into everyday life, the deep psycho-physical relaxation they induce leads to enhanced, 'poised' living and integrated well-being. He then turns to an examination of Oriental techniques such as Yoga, Zen and other Buddhist methods. The reader can then find the technique most suited to his temperament and situation. (Previously published as Relaxation East and West.