In cases of this description, however, it ought to be observed, it is not the mere constipation which injures the health and requires to be removed. It is in reality to _the mode of life which induces it_ that we ought to direct our attention; for, unless that be amended, all our efforts to preserve the health by merely removing the effect will prove insufficient. In the natural and healthy state, under a proper system of diet, and with sufficient exercise, the bowels are relieved regularly once every day. In some constitutions, however, the ordinary period is shorter or longer than this--twice a-day, or only once in two days; but such differences are unimportant when they do not proceed from morbid causes, or in any way disturb the health. Habit, in this as in other operations under the influence of the nervous system, is powerful in modifying the result, and in sustaining healthy action when once fairly established. Hence the obvious advantage of observing as much regularity in relieving the system as in taking our meals, and the impropriety of attempting to break through the habit when once formed. Sleep seems to be favourable to the progress of nutrition, and it is apparently during the night that the assimilation of the daily food is completed, and its residue prepared for being expelled along with the other excretions. Hence there is a natural tendency in the bowels to act in the morning, and we ought therefore to encourage it by a voluntary effort. Even the reception of breakfast into the stomach seems to act as a stimulus to intestinal contraction, and in consequence many persons experience the inclination immediately after their morning repast, and suffer if they are prevented from yielding to it.