4. Questions & Answers
Are specific deep breathing exercises recommended for greater intake of oxygen?
If you are referring to a passive form of deep breathing not associated with total bodily movement, then the answer is no, they are not recommended. We must understand that the rate of breath is automatically controlled through the respiratory center in the medulla of the brain. The more carbon dioxide that is contained in the blood, the more this center is stimulated, with a corresponding increase in the rate of breathing. Conversely, oxygen inhibits this center so that the more oxygen the blood possesses, the slower we breathe. Thus the breath rate and the volume of oxygen are always automatically adjusted to the body's true needs. Deep breathing "exercises" that do not involve great muscular exertion will not provide for any more air into the body than the blood can take up according to its needs. Passive deep breathing "exercises" do not force anything out of the body, nor do they "feed" the nerves or regenerate the body in any way. Such activities may result in mental confusion and various other symptoms and are best discarded. Active deep breathing, that which is coincident with various bodily movements such as hiking, running, swimming, etc., occasion a greater need for oxygen and are beneficial. The body's normal response to this need is met through an increase of breath rate and volume of oxygen intake.
Do all forms of artificial lighting produce detrimental effects upon our health and, if so, what can we do to minimize these effects?
Yes, all forms of artificial lighting negatively affect our health, but most of us must spend some time under their influence in order to live in this society. A few things may be done with regard to fluorescent light bulbs that will lessen the potential
hazards associated with their use. First, we may use solid plastic covers over the lighting fixtures to help filter out excessive ultraviolet light rays. Secondly, and more importantly, we may use and encourage others to use some of the more recently developed broad-spectrum fluorescent lamps instead of the more commonly used "cool white" fluorescent bulbs. The former more closely simulate the full spectrum that is offered us by sunlight, and they should prove to be less harmful.
How may one obtain sufficient sunlight during the cold winter months of the temperate zones?
Humans originally came into existence when the conditions of the environment harmoniously agreed with their constitution. This was in such a climate as to allow for living without clothing, so as to be sun-kissed throughout the years of their existence. Nowadays, many of us inhabit less comfortable areas of the world and may only experience these life-giving rays part of the year. A possible solution during the winter is to construct a solarium or close off an area in such a way as to keep the wind out but the solar rays in. Through the use of reflecting the rays, we may additionally produce more heat in this specialized area, thereby making it more comfortable for the sunbath. We may also secure some sunlight through an open window if conditions permit. But probably the most important consideration is that we live healthfully throughout the months so as to secure adequate nutritive reserves, and not dissipate our nerve energy through food and/or sexual indulgences or lack of adequate rest and sleep. This will prove to be of paramount importance for maintaining good health during those months not as suitable to humans.
Lesson 13 has discussed many reasons why humans need sunshine on a regular basis. Sunshine has been described as one of the basic essentials of life and a valuable factor-influence in all states and conditions of the human body. It is needed for assimilation of calcium and phosphorus salts and for the production of vitamin D in the skin.
While sunshine and other nutritive factors obtained on a regular basis result in fewer diseases, especially rickets, tuberculosis, anemia, insomnia, acne, psoriasis, leukemia, high blood pressure and reproductive disorders (irregular ovulation, pubertal difficulties, impotency, uterine hemorrhage, etc.), it cannot be considered a specific "cure" for any disease condition, and it will not protect us from other destructive habits we may indulge.
Excessive sunshine, especially under the sun's most intense rays, is not healthful and should be avoided. It may result in sunburn, dry, coarse skin and nervousness. In short, too much heat and sunlight is enervating. Tanning should not be considered the primary objective of sunbathing, and suntan lotions or oils should not be used because they will clog the body's skin pores and inhibit the oil-secreting glands of the body from working properly.
Lesson 13 also gave a history of sunbathing and the use of sunshine for improved health, nerves and muscles. The practice of sunbathing was just about lost during the Middle Ages, however, and its revival was brought about in large part as a result of the efforts of Hygienic pioneers, including Graham and Trail.
Lesson 13 explained that artificial lights do not produce a complete spectrum of light, and they upset natural body rhythms that are tuned to the light of nature. Artificial lights produce an excess of one or more of the color rays, and they interfere with normal reproduction in plants and animals...
The anabolic activities that take place efficiently only at night when riot interfered with by artificial lighting are disturbed by the use of artificial lights. Therefore, the processes of growth and repair of cells and tissues are hindered and the body is robbed of some of its life force. Additionally, Lesson 13 stated that sunlamps are harmful and should not be used.
Air as a primary, and the most immediate, need of life, was discussed in this lesson. It must be obtained in ample amounts and it must be free from pollutants, including the exhalations of ourselves and others. This means that good ventilation is necessary inside buildings, and we should refrain from using polluting substances in our homes and offices. The fact that we consume more weight in air than in food and water combined makes it evident why people are so devitalized by air pollutants.
Lesson 13 described the lungs and how they work to take in oxygen and eliminate' carbon dioxide and other toxins. It was explained that the heart works in harmony with the lungs. The symptoms of carbon dioxide poisoning were described, and the body's process of accommodation was explained and illustrated. Also, some of the major air pollutants in cities were listed and their damages described.
The need for adequate ventilation during sleep was discussed, and the need for outdoor exercise was highlighted. Lesson 13 also explained why passive deep breathing "exercises" should not be indulged but vigorous exercise should be obtained. Suggestions were made on how to avoid the harmful effects of artificial lighting and on how to obtain adequate sunlight during the cold winter months of the temperate zones.