t relieved to the extent designed,
while it receives back noxious particles, which are thus carried to the
lungs, liver, and every part of the system.

This is the reason why the articles worn next to the skin should often
be changed; and why it is recommended that persons should not sleep in
the article they wear next the skin through the day. The alternate
change and airing of the articles worn next the body by day or night, is
a practice very favorable to the health of the skin. The fresh air has
the power of removing much of the noxious effluvia received from the
body by the clothing. It is with reference to this, that on leaving a
bed, its covering should be thrown open and exposed to the fresh air.

The benefit arising from a proper care of the skin, is the reason why
bathing has been so extensively practised by civilized nations. The
Greeks and Romans considered bathing as indispensable to daily comfort,
as much so, as their meals; and public baths were provided for all
classes. In European countries, this practice is very prevalent, but
there is no civilized nation which pays so little regard to the rules of
health, on this subject, as our own. To wash the face, feet, hands, and
neck, is the extent of the ablutions practised by perhaps the majority
of our people.

In regard to the use of the bath, there is need of some information, in
order to prevent danger from its misuse. Persons in good health, and
with strong constitutions, can use the cold bath, and the shower-bath,
with entire safety and benefit. But if the constitution be feeble, cold
bathing is injurious. If it is useful, it can be known by an invigorated
feeling, and a warm glow on the skin; but if, instead of this, there be
a feeling of debility, and the hands and feet become cold, it is a
certain sign, that this kind of bathing is injurious. A bath at
ninety-five degrees of Fahrenheit, is about the right temperature. A
bath, blood warm, or a little cooler than the skin, is safe for all
constitutions, if not protracted over half an hour. After bathing, the
body should be rubbed with a brush or coarse towel, to remove the light
scales of scarfskin, which adhere to it, and also to promote a healthful
excitement.

A bath should never be taken, till three hours after eating, as it
interrupts the process of digestion, by withdrawing the blood from the
stomach to the surface. Neither should it be taken, when the body is
weary with exercise, nor be immed