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Mind, Character, and Personality Volume 2
blood moves sluggishly through the system because it is not purified
and vitalized by the pure, invigorating air of heaven. The mind be-
comes depressed and gloomy, while the whole system is enervated, and
fevers and other acute diseases are liable to be generated.—
Testimonies
for the Church 1:702, 803
(1868).
Depression and Gloom Result of Insufficient Oxygen—The
lungs should be allowed the greatest freedom possible. Their ca-
pacity is developed by free action; it diminishes if they are cramped
and compressed. Hence the ill effects of the practice so common,
especially in sedentary pursuits, of stooping at one’s work. In this
position it is impossible to breathe deeply. Superficial breathing soon
becomes a habit, and the lungs lose their power to expand
Thus an insufficient supply of oxygen is received. The blood
moves sluggishly. The waste, poisonous matter, which should be
thrown off in the exhalations from the lungs, is retained, and the blood
becomes impure. Not only the lungs, but the stomach, liver, and
[484]
brain are affected. The skin becomes sallow, digestion is retarded; the
heart is depressed; the brain is clouded; the thoughts are confused;
gloom settles upon the spirits; the whole system becomes depressed
and inactive, and peculiarly susceptible to disease.—
The Ministry of
Healing, 272, 273
(1905).
Good Respiration Soothes the Nerves—In order to have good
blood, we must breathe well. Full, deep inspirations of pure air, which
fill the lungs with oxygen, purify the blood. They impart to it a bright
color and send it, a life-giving current, to every part of the body. A good
respiration soothes the nerves; it stimulates the appetite and renders
digestion more perfect; and it induces sound, refreshing sleep.—
The
Ministry of Healing, 272
(1905).
Dropsy and Disease of Heart Tend to Depress Ellen G. White
[
See
Selected Messages 2:233-245
, “Fortitude and Affliction.”]—
Disease has pressed heavily upon me. For years I have been afflicted
with dropsy and disease of the heart, which has had a tendency to
depress my spirits and destroy my faith and courage.—
Testimonies
for the Church 1:185
(1859).
Borrowed Power Results in Depression—Through the intemper-
ance begun at home, the digestive organs first become weakened, and
soon ordinary food does not satisfy the appetite. Unhealthy conditions
are established, and there is a craving for more stimulating food. Tea