THE INTEGUMENT, OR SKIN. 49 



26. Time and Manner of Bathing. A person in 

 sound health may take a bath at almost any time, except 

 directly after a full meal. The most appropriate time is 

 about three hours after a meal, the noon-hour being proba- 

 bly the best. For the cold bath, taken rapidly, no time is 

 better than immediately after rising. Those beginning the 

 use of cold baths should first try them at 70 Fahr., and 

 gradually use those of a lower temperature. From five to 

 twenty minutes may be considered the proper limit of time 

 to remain in a bath ; but a sensation of chilliness is a signal 

 to withdraw instantly, whether at home, or at the sea-side. 

 Two sea-baths may be taken daily ; one of any other kind 

 is sufficient. 



27. The body should be warm, rather than cold, whei) 

 stepping into the bath; and after it, the skin should be 

 thoroughly dried with a coarse towel. It is best to continue 

 friction until there is a sensation of warmth or "glow" 

 throughout the entire surface. This reaction is the test 

 of the good effects of the bath. If reaction is still incom- 

 plete, a short walk may be taken, especially in the sunshine. 

 It is very congenial, however, both to health and comfort, 

 to rest for a short time directly after bathing, or to take 

 some light refreshment. This is better than severe exer- 

 cise or a full meal. 



28. Bathing among the Ancients. The Romans 

 and other nations of antiquity made great use of the 

 vapor-bath as a means of preserving the health, but more 

 particularly as a luxury. Their method was not unlike 

 that employed in northern Europe at the present day. 

 The public baths of Rome and other cities are among the 

 grandest and most interesting monuments of ancient 

 luxury and splendor; and from their ruins have been re- 

 covered some of the most beautiful works of art. 



26. What is gaid as to the time and manner of bathing ? 



27. Condition of the body when bathing? Direction, after bathing? 



28. Bathing among the ancients? Bath? of Rome? 



3 



