Knowledge of and Obedience to the Laws of Life
277
the philosophy of health is a safeguard against many of the evils that
are continually increasing
Let the Instruction Be Progressive—Children should be early
taught, in simple, easy lessons, the rudiments of physiology and hy-
giene. The work should be begun by the mother in the home and
should be faithfully carried forward in the school. As the pupils ad-
vance in years, instruction in this line should be continued until they
are qualified to care for the house they live in. They should understand
the importance of guarding against disease by preserving the vigor
of every organ and should also be taught how to deal with common
diseases and accidents
Factual Knowledge Is Not Sufficient—The student of physiol-
ogy should be taught that the object of his study is not merely to gain
a knowledge of facts and principles. This alone will prove of little
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benefit. He may understand the importance of ventilation, his room
may be supplied with pure air; but unless he fills his lungs properly
he will suffer the results of imperfect respiration. So the necessity of
cleanliness may be understood, and needful facilities may be supplied;
but all will be without avail unless put to use. The great requisite in
teaching these principles is to impress the pupil with their importance,
so that he will conscientiously put them in practice
Knowledge of Nature’s Laws Is Necessary—There are mat-
ters not usually included in the study of physiology that should be
considered—matters of far greater value to the student than are many
of the technicalities commonly taught under this head. As the foun-
dation principle of all education in these lines, the youth should be
taught that the laws of nature are the laws of God—as truly divine as
are the precepts of the Decalogue. The laws that govern our physical
organism, God has written upon every nerve, muscle, and fiber of the
body. Every careless and willful violation of these laws is a sin against
our Creator. How necessary, then, that a thorough knowledge of these
laws should be imparted
Regularity in Eating and Sleeping—The importance of regular-
ity in the time for eating and sleeping should not be overlooked. Since
9
Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 138
.
10
Education, 196
.
11
Education, 200
.
12
Education, 196, 197
.