h the efficiency of the work
that is being done. The suppression of distracting influences not only
enables the mind to be given fully to the work in hand, but actually
prevents waste of nervous energy. Although the responsibility for securing
the best conditions for work rests primarily with those in charge, it is
also true that each individual in every organization may contribute to the
order or disorder that prevails.

*Social Relations.*--In considering the external conditions that affect the
nervous system, the fact must not be overlooked that man is a social being
and has to adjust himself to an established social order. His relations to
his fellow-men, therefore, affect strongly his nervous condition and
theirs also. For this reason the best hygiene of the nervous system is
based upon _moral_ as well as physical right living. Along with the power
of self-control and the maintenance of a correct nervous poise, there
should be a proper regard for the welfare of others. On account of the
ease with which one individual may disturb the nervous state of another,
those social forms and customs which tend to establish harmonious
relations among men are truly hygienic in their effects, and may well be
carried out in spirit as well as "in letter."

It is also a fact that a given mental state in one person tends to excite
a like state in those with whom he associates. How important, then, that
each and all cultivate, as habits, the qualities of cheerfulness,
kindness, and good-will, instead of the opposite states of mind.
Especially in the family, and other groups of closely associated
individuals, should the nervous effect of one member upon the others be
considered and every effort made to secure and maintain harmonious
relations.

*The High Ideal.*--Everything considered, the conditions most favorable to
the healthfulness of the nervous system are in harmony with what our
greatest teachers have pointed to as the higher plane of living. On this
account a true conception of the value and meaning of life is of the
greatest importance. _An ever present, strong desire to live a vigorous,
but simple and noble, life_ will suggest the proper course to pursue when
in doubt and will stimulate the power of self-control. It will lead to the
stopping of "nerve leaks" and to the maintenance of harmonious relations
with one's fellows. It will cause one to recoil from the use of alcohol
and other nerve poisons, as from a deadly serpen