inal cord itself and of the spinal
nerves. The pinching of these nerves naturally interferes with the
supply of energy to the organs controlled by them, and causes more or
less serious derangement of the bodily functions. If one can keep his
spine straight and strong the central nervous system will likewise
be healthy and vigorous, and all organs will be supplied with a normal
amount of energy and vitality.

The special exercises for the spine which I have recommended for years
have the general effect not only of maintaining the proper alignment
of the vertebrae and thus promoting the health and welfare of the
central nervous system, but also of strongly stimulating the nervous
system, and thus toning up the entire bodily organism. All movements of
the spine, whether of a twisting or bending character, naturally
influence the spinal cord and the spinal nerves in a mechanical way.
The result is something akin to a massage of these nerve structures, and
in this way, as I have long contended, it is possible directly to
stimulate the source of energy and vitality. I am convinced for this
reason that muscular exercise for the back is infinitely more
important than for any other part of the body, important as it is for
all parts. If one has only very little time each day to devote to
exercise, then it would pay him best to give that time to movements
which will strengthen and stimulate the spine.

The various movements that I am presenting in this chapter have been
devised especially to accompany the hot-water regimen that will
be described in the following chapter. They are intended not only to add
to the strength of the backbone itself, but have been devised with a
view to stimulating to an unusual degree the nerve centers located in
the spine. As I have already said, the spinal nerves control the
functions of all the vital organs, and when the activity of these
organs is stimulated not only through increased nerve force but also
by the increased supply of blood that will result from the hot water-
drinking regimen referred to, then indeed will we have a combination of
stimulating forces which will bring about vital changes, in very many
cases, little short of astounding in character.

Each of these exercises should be taken until a feeling of fatigue has
been noticed, after which you may rest a few moments, breathing fully
and deeply with expanded abdomen. You should then be ready