what would be better yet, carry out the
suggestion which I have given in a former chapter on the drinking of hot
water. That will usually supply the system with the proper amount of
liquid necessary to insure normal activity of the kidneys.

The next means of blood purification is one which rarely receives a
great amount of attention. I refer to the eliminative function of the
skin. We have more definite control over and can more easily influence
this particular channel of elimination than any other. The skin
unquestionably throws off a tremendous amount of impurities. Where but
little attention is given it, where one bathes at infrequent intervals
and to a large extent smothers the skin with a surplus amount of
clothing, the activity of the eliminative function of the skin is
greatly reduced. There are various means at hand for stimulating the
activity of the skin which are of unusual value in connection with blood
purification.

One of the simplest methods both of improvising the texture of the skin
and accelerating its functional processes is found in dry friction. This
friction can be applied with the palm of the hand, with a rough towel,
or with friction brushes. In order to secure the greatest advantages of
a friction bath it is advisable to brush or rub the surface of every
part of the body until it assumes a pinkish glow from the
increased peripheral circulation induced by the friction. Where the skin
is rough or covered with pimples this suggestion is of especial value.
When using friction brushes for this purpose one should not attempt to
use very stiff brushes in the beginning, for they will scratch too much.
Soft, fair skins usually cannot stand such rough treatment as well as
can a thicker skin, or one which is oily in character. In many cases a
dry Turkish bath towel will answer the purpose splendidly. If the skin
is rather tender it suffices to use the palms of both hands.
After becoming accustomed to the friction, however, you will find that
you will be able to enjoy stiffer brushes and I would suggest using a
fairly stiff brush so long as it is not too uncomfortable. You will find
that as you become accustomed to the treatment the skin will become
softer and smoother as a result. Also it will become more active. This
dry friction bath may be taken each morning following your exercises. If
you take a cold bath it should follow the friction. First exercise, then
employ the fri