THE NERVOUS SYSTEM 



at the suggestion of another and while hearing his voice and believing 

 in his power to influence, the subjection to that influence continues 

 during the sleep which follows. This sleep seems to be a kind of 

 induced somnambulism. That there is no animal magnetism concerned 

 is shown by the fact that the most delicate electrical instruments fail to 

 show the faintest disturbance. Frequent repetition of the hypnotic con- 

 dition is believed by some to weaken the will of the individual. The 

 nature of the hypnotic condition is not fully settled. Like other sub- 

 jects on which science is unable to pronounce a definite verdict, this 

 whole subject has been surrounded by rogues with humbuggery and 

 quackery. Some persons by practice can read the intended movements 

 of another by grasping the hand of the other with his arm held in an 

 unstable position. This muscle-reading is based upon the fact that 

 when the mind is concentrated on making a certain movement, the 

 muscles will resist an opposite movement. Again, the mystery of 

 ordinary sleep has never been solved. It is not surprising that its 

 variations, such as trances, somnambulism, and the hypnotic sleep, are 

 not understood. The relation of mind and matter, the connection of 

 the soul and body, are mysteries that may be beyond the power of man 

 ever to solve. 



APPLIED PHYSIOLOGY 

 EXERCISE I 



1. Why is playing the organ less trying to the nerves of the 

 player than playing the piano? 



2. Why is it best to change from very absorbing work to work 

 of less interest a while before retiring ? 



3. Why is the power of habit a blessing? A danger? 



4. How does travel often cure a sick person when all else fails? 



5. Why should we never study immediately after eating? 



6. Why is working more healthful than " taking exercise " ? 



7. Is it better for children to play or to take exercise? 



8. What causes the peristaltic action of the stomach? 



9. Is one more likely to sleep soundly who does his brain work 

 in the forenoon and muscular work in the afternoon than if he 

 reverses the order? 



10. Why can one walk and carry on a conversation at the same 

 time? 



EXERCISE II 



11. How does indigestion cause a headache? 



12. Does perfectly comfortable clothing from head to foot contribute 

 to one's ease in company? 



