THE GENERAL PROBLEM OF KEEPING WELL 419 



effects upon the nervous system and should be carefully 

 avoided. 1 



Stimulants in Health Unnecessary. Stimulants have been 

 aptly styled "the whips of the nervous system." The healthy 

 nervous system, however, like the well-disposed and well-fed 

 horse, needs no whip, but is irritated and harmed through 

 its use. Even in periods of weakness and depression, stimu- 

 lants are usually not called for, but a more perfect provision 

 for hygienic needs. Rest, relaxation, sleep, proper food, and 

 avoidance of irritation, not stimulants, are the great restorers 

 of the nervous system. A surplus of nervous energy gained 

 through natural means is more conducive to health and effec- 

 tive work than any result that can possibly be secured through 

 drugs. Then withal comes the satisfaction of knowing that 

 one has the expression of his real self in the way in which he 

 feels and in what he accomplishes not a " whipped-up " con- 

 dition that must be paid for by weakness or suffering later on. 



Summary. To solve the problem of keeping well, one 

 must live the life which is in closest harmony with the 

 plan of the body. Such a life, because of differences 

 in physical organization, as well as differences in en- 

 vironment and occupation, cannot be the same for all. 

 All, however, may observe the conditions under which the 

 body can be used without injuring it and the special 

 hygienic laws relative to the care of different organs. 

 Causes of disease, whether they be in one's environment, 

 vocation, in his use of foods or drugs, or in his mode of 

 recreation, must either be avoided or counteracted. 



While the problem is beset with such difficulties as lack of 

 sufficient knowledge, inherited weakness, and time and op- 



i Most headaches are the result either of eye strain or of digestive disturbances, 

 such as indigestion and constipation, and are to be relieved through the work of 

 the oculist or through attention to the hygiene of the digestive system. 



