Old Age Deferred: The causes of old age and its postponement by hygienic and therapeutic measuresLorand, Arnold
Science
Old Age Deferred: The causes of old age and its postponement by hygienic and therapeutic measures
Lorand, Arnold
Hygiene; Longevity; Old age
Of the different baths which are used to induce perspiration we award
the preference to electric light baths, where we obtain a double
advantage, for we can unite the advantages of perspiration with those of
the influence of light upon the body. We are able to prepare such a bath
so that the chemically active rays (see chapter on the advantages of
sunshine) are obtained. Not only is a very abundant perspiration
produced (indeed sometimes about a liter of sweat can be removed from
the body in from twenty to twenty-two minutes), but also the processes
of oxidation can be augmented. As a consequence we often note a great
diminution of fat in persons with a superabundant accumulation of this
substance. When in such baths blue light is used and the blue rays are
acting in overwhelming quantity, the condition of the nervous system can
be influenced in a very favorable way, and especially can excited
conditions be calmed. It is also probable that by such sweating
procedures toxic products, which are deleterious to the nervous system,
can be removed. Perspiration can also be caused by bodily movement
through exercise. In such cases, as proved by physiological experiments,
impulses are sent to the vasomotor centers, which result in a widening
of the capillaries through the excitation of such centers. Thus sweating
is created by fast walking, running, and frequently also by horseback
riding, and by various kinds of sports, such as cycling. In all these
cases it is essential, however, to change the clothes and underwear
which we have worn when perspiring, and to take a bath; for the
possibility is not to be denied that a part of the toxic products which
adhere to the skin after such sweating exercises may be re-absorbed,
although we are not in a position to give exact experiments to prove
such a supposition.
Taking a bath and using soap and brush, and creating a friction until
there is a red reaction of the skin, may then prevent the danger of
catching cold, but after such a bath it is most important not to leave
with a hot, red skin and opened pores, but to cause their contraction by
a quick cold douche, continued at intervals until the skin is cooled and
the pores thereby contracted. An energetic friction of the skin must
follow before leaving the bathing place.
After such a bath we shall experience a sensation of great comfort, and
shall feel much lighter and fresher. Such baths should be taken
frequently, at least once a week, and if we are very desirous of keeping
a youthful appearance for a long time, even more frequently. In stout
people, however, it is necessary for such baths that the muscles of the
heart be not degenerated; and also that there should be no serious
affection of the heart valves or of the blood-vessels, if baths of a
very high temperature and lasting a considerable time are indulged in.
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