HYGIENE OF MUSCLES. 5 1 



the tendency to acquire it is much promoted by indul- 

 gence in alcoholic drinks. 



6. The Importance of keeping our Muscles in Good 

 Working Condition. Man's mind is more than his body, 

 but the mind turns its thoughts into deeds by means of 

 the voluntary muscles. The better their state, the more 

 promptly do they obey its commands; while a feeble or 

 sluggish set of muscles will often bring to naught the 

 best-laid plans of the mind. 



Mind without the power of directing movement, would 

 be a source rather of pain than pleasure. Muscles un- 

 guided by mind would make but a piece of machinery, as 

 incapable of enjoyment as a steam-engine. Between 

 these extremes, there lies a combination of vigorous well- 

 trained brain and healthy active muscle, which is the 

 highest condition of bodily welfare. 



7. Hygiene of the Muscles. Every time a muscle is 

 worked, some of its substance is used up and turned into 

 waste matters. Nourishment must therefore be brought 

 to the muscle, that new substance be formed instead of 

 that destroyed; and the waste matters, which would 

 poison the muscle if they were allowed to collect, must 

 be removed. Both of these things are done by the blood: 

 and the blood must be kept in good condition by nour- 

 ishing food and pure air, if the muscles are to be healthy 

 and vigorous. No article of dress should press tightly on 

 any muscle; if it does it will hinder a free flow of blood 

 in it and interfere with its proper nourishment. 



6. Why would our minds be of little use without our muscles? 

 What is the highest condition of bodily welfare ? 



7. What happens to some of its substance when a muscle is used? 

 What follows from this? What part does the blood play in keeping 

 the muscles in health ? What are necessary to keep the blood in 

 proper condition ? How may a tight garment injure our muscles ? 



