A WHOLE industry is devoted to helping the stressed-out unwind.

You can spoil yourself in a spa, have your pressure points needled by an acupuncturist, sink into an immersion tank or meditate your way to a higher plane.

Others travel miles to find tranquillity in a Far Eastern temple or with an Amazonian tribe.

But we have found a cheaper, simpler, more traditional alternative on everyone's doorstep. Just take yourself to your nearest Sam Smith's pub. These are more peaceful than your average woodland glade: no TV, no juke boxes, no singing.

And their refusal to change the opening hours means you are always guaranteed an early night.

Your good health!

Updated: 11:29 Thursday, August 18, 2005