HEALTH AND WELL-BEING 65 



not occur. There is an increase in the size of the tree by 

 reason of the added annual wood formation. In animal life, 

 on the other hand, prompt removal from the body of the 

 dead cells of the tissue by oxidation or otherwise is necessary 

 for the maintenance of health. 



Irritation of any organ, or of any part of the body, causing 

 an excessive blood supply there and a congestion of its blood 

 vessels, stimulates excessive secretions and a cell-building 

 that is likely to be unnatural in character. The high tem- 

 perature of the inflamed region is likely to affect unfavorably 

 the protoplasm of the cells. With the system unable to rid 

 itself rapidly enough of waste matter, illness follows. Medi- 

 cines may be required both to remove the cause and to stimu- 

 late the organs of the body to a more prompt removal of the 

 waste material. 



Sustained mental activity of a high order requires a well- 

 balanced physical development. All organs of the body, 

 including the brain and nervous system, must be in a healthy 

 and well-nourished state. Apparent exceptions to this rule 

 may be explained (though not accounted for) by saying that 

 mental activity occurs in spite of bodily infirmities, and that 

 it is always limited more or less by them. It may be con- 

 sidered true generally that health and efficiency are through- 

 out life directly dependent upon wisely ordered bodily ac- 

 tivities. The brain and nervous system can be kept in tone 

 and vigor only through sufficient and suitable exercise of the 

 whole muscular system. On the other hand, the mind is 

 largely independent of abnormal muscular development and 

 of excessive bodily strength. A " sound mind in a sound 

 body" has no necessary reference to physical prowess and 

 athletic training. 



Any cells of the body if kept inactive become less vigorous, 

 and finally die as a result of disuse. The muscles unused 

 become weak and flabby. Activity in all tissues is essential 



