Drawing from the author's vast research experience on the subject, this book comprehensively deals with health and healing-related cultural theories and practices. It posits that recovery from a disease has to be understood in terms of holistic healing, in which the scope of health needs to be expanded to include a role for the family/community in promoting subjective well-being. It delineates the Indian perception of health and health beliefs from the perspective of chronically ill patients, and provides a holistic and indigenous understanding of health beliefs, role of traditional healing practices, and effective methods for conducting research on chronic illnesses. -- Back cover