200 OUR BODIES AND HOW WE LIVE 



stop bathing if shivering comes on, and use the towel 

 vigorously until a feeling of genial warmth is felt all over 

 the person. 



Young children and old people, unless strong, vigorous, 

 and well used to it, cannot take a cold bath without some 

 risk. Like all other things, bathing may be weakening if 

 carried to excess. Very much depends upon a person's 

 occupation and the condition of the skin. 1 



269. The Care of the Hair. It adds to our health and 

 comfort to keep the hair clean. The oil glands become 

 clogged, and dust and dirt, rapidly making a coating on the 

 scalp, get entangled in the hair. Hence the hair should 

 be washed, combed, and brushed, often and well. An 

 occasional shampoo at home, with a wash made of the 

 white of an egg and soapsuds, is healthful. Even a little 

 borax dissolved in plain water, with vigorous rubbing, will 

 do much to keep the scalp clean and healthy. 



270. Dangers from Change of "Clothing. Clothes serve 

 to keep up an even temperature about the surface of the 



1 Certain precautions are advisable for all who bathe in the sea. In the 

 first place, bathing should never be indulged in when one is overheated, nor 

 within two hours after a hearty meal. On the other hand, bathing on a 

 perfectly empty stomach, as before breakfast, is not advisable ; it is a good 

 plan for early morning bathers to take a light lunch before starting for 

 the beach. 



The time of staying in the water must depend upon the individual; 

 some people can stay in fifteen or tw r enty minutes without ill effect, but 

 for most people a five-minute plunge is long enough. 



One of the most serious results from sea bathing is inflammation of 

 the ears. No one who has a discharge from the ears should ever bathe 

 in the sea, especially in the surf, and all would do well to stop the ears 

 with a little plug of absorbent cotton before going into the water. 



Many people who cannot bathe in the sea are greatly benefited by the 

 sea air and by taking sponge baths, or even tub baths, in salt water in their 

 own rooms every morning. These baths should be followed by brisk 

 rubbing with a rough towel. 



