Study of Physiology
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off disease. To ensure correct delivery in reading and speaking, see
that the abdominal muscles have full play in breathing and that the
respiratory organs are unrestricted. Let the strain come on the muscles
of the abdomen rather than on those of the throat. Great weariness and
serious disease of the throat and lungs may thus be prevented. Careful
attention should be given to securing distinct articulation, smooth,
well-modulated tones, and a not-too-rapid delivery. This will not only
promote health, but will add greatly to the agreeableness and efficiency
of the student’s work.
In teaching these things a golden opportunity is afforded for show-
ing the folly and wickedness of tight lacing and every other practice
that restricts vital action. An almost endless train of disease results
from unhealthful modes of dress, and careful instruction on this point
should be given. Impress upon the pupils the danger of allowing the
clothing to weigh on the hips or to compress any organ of the body.
The dress should be so arranged that a full respiration can be taken
and the arms be raised above the head without difficulty. The cramp-
ing of the lungs not only prevents their development, but hinders the
processes of digestion and circulation, and thus weakens the whole
body. All such practices lessen both physical and mental power, thus
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hindering the student’s advancement and often preventing his success.
In the study of hygiene the earnest teacher will improve every op-
portunity to show the necessity of perfect cleanliness both in personal
habits and in all one’s surroundings. The value of the daily bath in
promoting health and in stimulating mental action, should be empha-
sized. Attention should be given also to sunlight and ventilation, the
hygiene of the sleeping room and the kitchen. Teach the pupils that a
healthful sleeping room, a thoroughly clean kitchen, and a tastefully
arranged, wholesomely supplied table, will go further toward securing
the happiness of the family and the regard of every sensible visitor
than any amount of expensive furnishing in the drawing room. That
“the life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment” (
Luke
12:23
), is a lesson no less needed now than when given by the divine
Teacher eighteen hundred years ago.
The student of physiology 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 benefit. He may understand the importance of
ventilation, his room may be supplied with pure air; but unless he fills