Changes

Article #1: How To Put Yourself To Sleep Easily By A.F. Willat

Article #1: How To Put Yourself To Sleep Easily By A.F. Willat

Article #2: Rest: A Much-Neglected Health Factor By Hereward Carrington, Ph.D. Article #3: The Need For Rest By Dr. Herbert M. Shelton

Article #2: Rest: A Much-Neglected Health Factor By Hereward Carrington, Ph.D.  

 

Article #3: The Need For Rest By Dr. Herbert M. Shelton

Article #4: Rest vs. Stimulation by Dr. Herbert M. Shelton

Article #4: Rest vs. Stimulation by Dr. Herbert M. Shelton

15.1. Introduction

== Introduction ==

 

Rest and sleep are two essentials of life that have an importance unrecognized by most people. Sleep and rest are indulged because the need for them overtakes rather than be- cause of an enlightened awareness of their role in well-being.

Rest and sleep are two essentials of life that have an importance unrecognized by most people. Sleep and rest are indulged because the need for them overtakes rather than be- cause of an enlightened awareness of their role in well-being.

The restorative roles of rest and sleep are everywhere admitted, but the physiological mechanisms are not clearly understood by researchers. Hopefully this lesson can prove not only enlightening but also furnish you guidance you can turn to benefit for yourself and your clients.

The restorative roles of rest and sleep are everywhere admitted, but the physiological mechanisms are not clearly understood by researchers. Hopefully this lesson can prove not only enlightening but also furnish you guidance you can turn to benefit for yourself and your clients.

15.2. What Is Rest?

== What Is Rest? ==

 

15.2.1 Relaxation as Rest

15.2.1 Relaxation as Rest

Many people are apt to confuse the words rest and sleep as being synonymous. Rest, as we have seen; means cessation of activity. Sleep necessarily implies rest due to the immobilization of the body, but the condition of sleep exists only when consciousness has ceased. However, we should note that not all forms of unconsciousness are sleep. Coma, catalepsy and stupor must not be confused with sleep.

Many people are apt to confuse the words rest and sleep as being synonymous. Rest, as we have seen; means cessation of activity. Sleep necessarily implies rest due to the immobilization of the body, but the condition of sleep exists only when consciousness has ceased. However, we should note that not all forms of unconsciousness are sleep. Coma, catalepsy and stupor must not be confused with sleep.

15.3. What Is Sleep?

== What Is Sleep? ==

 

15.3.1 Why Should We Sleep At All?

15.3.1 Why Should We Sleep At All?

Simply stated, the brain sleeps in order to regenerate a fund of nerve energy. Nerve energy is the “money of account” for human vitality.

Simply stated, the brain sleeps in order to regenerate a fund of nerve energy. Nerve energy is the “money of account” for human vitality.

15.4. What Determines The Quality And Quantity Of Sleep We Need?

== What Determines The Quality And Quantity Of Sleep We Need? ==

 

15.4.1 Conditions That Promote Efficient Sleep

15.4.1 Conditions That Promote Efficient Sleep

# The more wholesome the food, the less nerve energy is required to digest and use it. Wholesome food lessens sleep needs and increases sleep efficiency.

# The more wholesome the food, the less nerve energy is required to digest and use it. Wholesome food lessens sleep needs and increases sleep efficiency.

# Themoreunfitthefoodseaten,themorenerveenergyisexpendedandthemoresleepis required. Moreover, sleep will be less efficient when unwholesome foods are consumed.  Fasting individuals require only three to five hours of sleep daily after fasting for a short time. People who eat meat, condiments and cooked foods and who overeat require inordinare amounts of sleep. Despite the extra sleep, they are usually not well rested be- cause they have a perpetual deficit of nerve energy due to their unwholesome practices.  You should not eat for at least two hours prior to bedtime. Though meals do some- times occasion drowsiness and sluggishness, due to the redirection of blood supply to the digestive organs, we should not expect to sleep well while the body is conducting digestive and assimilative tasks.  Eating beyond the body’s need imposes an enervating task upon the body. Processing and disposing of food requires a great deal of energy. Improper combinations or un- wholesome foods usually end up in a pathogenic mess that drains the body’s resources in eliminative efforts. This drain of energy results in poor sleep and in a correspondingly greater need for sleep. An enervated individual who sleeps 12 hours daily may be less rested than a healthy person who gets only six hours!  15.4.6 Relaxation and Sleep  Relaxation is a great prelude to sleep. In a relaxed state, we drop the cares of the world and let go. Also, muscular tensions are released. When we take it easy and let go of tension, the body redirects its energies to its most needed tasks.  The cares of the world may be difficult to drop. I personally find it easy to let go of them by doing a few words on a crossword puzzle, solving a few chess problems or by pursuing some other consuming interest. Then I lay down, close my eyes and let myself go limp as if I were a bag of sand.  Somnolence comes quickly when the need for sleep exists and the demands upon the brain have been lowered as much as possible. Tensions, worries and stresses increase the need for sleep while simultaneously making it more difficult to fall asleep.  Many excellent relaxation methods can be practiced with benefit. One method that does not help you fall asleep so much as it helps you perform everyday activities in a relaxed and efficient manner is the Alexander Technique. There are instructors in many major cities.  People who are tense and who have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, besides improving their diet and getting more exercise and fresh air, should search for and find a relaxation method that will help them.

# Themoreunfitthefoodseaten,themorenerveenergyisexpendedandthemoresleepis required. Moreover, sleep will be less efficient when unwholesome foods are consumed.  Fasting individuals require only three to five hours of sleep daily after fasting for a short time. People who eat meat, condiments and cooked foods and who overeat require inordinare amounts of sleep. Despite the extra sleep, they are usually not well rested be- cause they have a perpetual deficit of nerve energy due to their unwholesome practices.  You should not eat for at least two hours prior to bedtime. Though meals do some- times occasion drowsiness and sluggishness, due to the redirection of blood supply to the digestive organs, we should not expect to sleep well while the body is conducting digestive and assimilative tasks.   

# Eating beyond the body’s need imposes an enervating task upon the body. Processing and disposing of food requires a great deal of energy. Improper combinations or un- wholesome foods usually end up in a pathogenic mess that drains the body’s resources in eliminative efforts. This drain of energy results in poor sleep and in a correspondingly greater need for sleep. An enervated individual who sleeps 12 hours daily may be less rested than a healthy person who gets only six hours!   

15.4.6 Relaxation and Sleep  Relaxation is a great prelude to sleep. In a relaxed state, we drop the cares of the world and let go. Also, muscular tensions are released. When we take it easy and let go of tension, the body redirects its energies to its most needed tasks.  The cares of the world may be difficult to drop. I personally find it easy to let go of them by doing a few words on a crossword puzzle, solving a few chess problems or by pursuing some other consuming interest. Then I lay down, close my eyes and let myself go limp as if I were a bag of sand.  Somnolence comes quickly when the need for sleep exists and the demands upon the brain have been lowered as much as possible. Tensions, worries and stresses increase the need for sleep while simultaneously making it more difficult to fall asleep.  Many excellent relaxation methods can be practiced with benefit. One method that does not help you fall asleep so much as it helps you perform everyday activities in a relaxed and efficient manner is the Alexander Technique. There are instructors in many major cities.  People who are tense and who have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, besides improving their diet and getting more exercise and fresh air, should search for and find a relaxation method that will help them.

15.4.7 Bedding and Sleep

15.4.7 Bedding and Sleep

Body exudates then collect and irritate the skin, thus causing a lighter stage of sleep and frequent body shifting to overcome the discomfort.

Body exudates then collect and irritate the skin, thus causing a lighter stage of sleep and frequent body shifting to overcome the discomfort.

Fabrics that breathe, such as cotton, solve this problem. Sleep should be conducted on cotton surfaces with lots of circulation underneath. Cotton sheets, blankets or materi- als should be used for cover.

Fabrics that breathe, such as cotton, solve this problem. Sleep should be conducted on cotton surfaces with lots of circulation underneath. Cotton sheets, blankets or materials should be used for cover.

Sleep is more efficiently conducted when the body is comfortable in temperature and when it is physically at ease. If the air temperature is warm, nude sleeping is ideal. Indoors, a fan may prove valuable if the air is very warm. If the temperature is in the sixty- to seventy-degree range, light-weight cotton pajamas or nightgowns will permit the warmer air radiating from your body to rise through the coverings into the cooler air outside the covers. Thus circulation is assured.

Sleep is more efficiently conducted when the body is comfortable in temperature and when it is physically at ease. If the air temperature is warm, nude sleeping is ideal. Indoors, a fan may prove valuable if the air is very warm. If the temperature is in the sixty- to seventy-degree range, light-weight cotton pajamas or nightgowns will permit the warmer air radiating from your body to rise through the coverings into the cooler air outside the covers. Thus circulation is assured.

To sum up, bedding should permit optimal air flow and maintain an even, comfort- able body temperature and even distribution of body weight over the underside.

To sum up, bedding should permit optimal air flow and maintain an even, comfort- able body temperature and even distribution of body weight over the underside.

15.5. The Value Of Napping

== The Value Of Napping ==

 

For many reasons, our night’s sleep may be inadequate. Our daily activities may involve an extraordinary amount of stress that squanders nerve energy. Heavy body toxicity may unduly drain the body of nerve energy. When any of these conditions render us drowsy, sleepy, listless or “down,” we need a nap. Many people resort to stimulating drinks (cof- fee, tea, colas) or foods (nonfoods such as chocolate, toxic foods such as meat, etc.) to “perk” them up. Stimulants of these kinds only exacerbate the problem rather than solv- ing it. They further drain nerve energy even though the drain may not be evident at the time.

For many reasons, our night’s sleep may be inadequate. Our daily activities may involve an extraordinary amount of stress that squanders nerve energy. Heavy body toxicity may unduly drain the body of nerve energy. When any of these conditions render us drowsy, sleepy, listless or “down,” we need a nap. Many people resort to stimulating drinks (cof- fee, tea, colas) or foods (nonfoods such as chocolate, toxic foods such as meat, etc.) to “perk” them up. Stimulants of these kinds only exacerbate the problem rather than solv- ing it. They further drain nerve energy even though the drain may not be evident at the time.

The healthful custom of taking a nap after noontide has been largely destroyed by the needs of industrial society. This loss has, to a great extent, contributed to our ill health and stimulative habits that make industrial nations so highly stressed and diseased.

The healthful custom of taking a nap after noontide has been largely destroyed by the needs of industrial society. This loss has, to a great extent, contributed to our ill health and stimulative habits that make industrial nations so highly stressed and diseased.

15.6. Dreams And Their Role In Sleep

== Dreams And Their Role In Sleep ==

 

15.6.1 Dreams As Guardians of Sleep

15.6.1 Dreams As Guardians of Sleep

To conduct the processes of sleep for most efficient regeneration of nerve energy, dreams appear to be mechanisms the body uses for calming the mind when problems and other stimuli would otherwise disturb sleep.

To conduct the processes of sleep for most efficient regeneration of nerve energy, dreams appear to be mechanisms the body uses for calming the mind when problems and other stimuli would otherwise disturb sleep.

15.7. Establishing Conditions Most Favorable For Sleep

== Establishing Conditions Most Favorable For Sleep ==

 

So far we have been discussing the various conditions favorable to sleep, as well as those that interfere with sleep. One of the foremost prerequisites for sleep is that we be sleepy. As obvious as this is, many people try to sleep when they are not sleepy! We should drink when thirsty, eat when hungry, defecate and urinate upon urge and, likewise, sleep when sleepy.

So far we have been discussing the various conditions favorable to sleep, as well as those that interfere with sleep. One of the foremost prerequisites for sleep is that we be sleepy. As obvious as this is, many people try to sleep when they are not sleepy! We should drink when thirsty, eat when hungry, defecate and urinate upon urge and, likewise, sleep when sleepy.

# Ourstomachshouldberelativelyempty.Digestiveprocessesdetractfromthesoundest sleep. We should not have a heavy load of food within when retiring, either juicy or con- centrated. Can you imagine what eating several pounds of watermelon before retiring would do to your sleep? Obviously your sleep would be disturbed by several visits to the bathroom during the night.

# Ourstomachshouldberelativelyempty.Digestiveprocessesdetractfromthesoundest sleep. We should not have a heavy load of food within when retiring, either juicy or con- centrated. Can you imagine what eating several pounds of watermelon before retiring would do to your sleep? Obviously your sleep would be disturbed by several visits to the bathroom during the night.

# If excited by a movie, a discussion, TV or anything else, do not attempt sleep. Rather, get into some rather passive pursuit such as reading that will bring on the somnolent urge while the emotional condition is allayed.

# If excited by a movie, a discussion, TV or anything else, do not attempt sleep. Rather, get into some rather passive pursuit such as reading that will bring on the somnolent urge while the emotional condition is allayed.

# Manyindividualscannotsleepalonebecausetheyaresoaccustomedtosleepingwitha mate. Sleeping with another represents a certain security and assurance.  On the other hand, sleeping with another has its liabilities. The movements and nois- es of the sleeping mate may disturb sleep. If this is the case, an extra bed should be uti- lized.  The conditions for favorable sleep are more elaborately presented in the booklet, Better Sleep for a Better Life. 15.8. Sleep Problems In Adults And Their Solutions  15.8.1 Insomnia  15.8.2 Apnea 15.8.3 Snoring

# Manyindividualscannotsleepalonebecausetheyaresoaccustomedtosleepingwitha mate. Sleeping with another represents a certain security and assurance.  On the other hand, sleeping with another has its liabilities. The movements and nois- es of the sleeping mate may disturb sleep. If this is the case, an extra bed should be uti- lized.  The conditions for favorable sleep are more elaborately presented in the booklet, Better Sleep for a Better Life.

 

== Sleep Problems In Adults And Their Solutions  ==

15.8.1 Insomnia   

 

15.8.2 Apnea  

 

15.8.3 Snoring

15.8.4 Narcolepsy

15.8.4 Narcolepsy

Incorrect actions of body control mechanisms are eliminated when the modifying in- fluences of drugs and body toxicity are discontinued and removed. Fasting and a health- ful regime will provide the answer to these problems.

Incorrect actions of body control mechanisms are eliminated when the modifying in- fluences of drugs and body toxicity are discontinued and removed. Fasting and a health- ful regime will provide the answer to these problems.

15.9. Sleep Problems In Infants And Children With Suggested Solutions

== Sleep Problems In Infants And Children With Suggested Solutions ==

 

Sleep problems in children are extensive in our society. These include extended wake- fulness, crying, abnormal demands for food, apnea, head-banging, nightmares and soon. Almost all of these manifestations spring from an abnormal body condition begotten of, today’s criminal treatment of children. To feed babies anything other than mother’s milk is a tragedy. Freshly expressed fruit juices might be substituted for a feeding of mother’s milk here and there, but even that is not advisable before six months of age. All other feeding is a disaster for the infant. Inoculating and drugging infants is criminal in every sense of the word. Feeding them starches, cooked foods, caffeine and other such

Sleep problems in children are extensive in our society. These include extended wake- fulness, crying, abnormal demands for food, apnea, head-banging, nightmares and soon. Almost all of these manifestations spring from an abnormal body condition begotten of, today’s criminal treatment of children. To feed babies anything other than mother’s milk is a tragedy. Freshly expressed fruit juices might be substituted for a feeding of mother’s milk here and there, but even that is not advisable before six months of age. All other feeding is a disaster for the infant. Inoculating and drugging infants is criminal in every sense of the word. Feeding them starches, cooked foods, caffeine and other such

An infant that does not feel right will not act “right.” Abnormal behavior comes from abnormal conditions. Usually, a short fast will enable the child’s body to cleanse itself. A proper regime of living that includes exercise (yes, even for an infant!), correct foods for the age, fresh air and sunshine, ample sleep, etc., will further improve the child’s conditions.

An infant that does not feel right will not act “right.” Abnormal behavior comes from abnormal conditions. Usually, a short fast will enable the child’s body to cleanse itself. A proper regime of living that includes exercise (yes, even for an infant!), correct foods for the age, fresh air and sunshine, ample sleep, etc., will further improve the child’s conditions.

15.10. Nostrums, Medications And Drugs Adminstered For Sleep

== Nostrums, Medications And Drugs Administered For Sleep ==

 

Problems

Problems

There are over 50 million Americans with sleep problems, almost one in four. People who suffer insomnia usually have a number of other complaints as well. Sleeplessness is but one symptom of body toxicity. Remove the toxicity and all complaints disappear simultaneously. Fasting enables the body to free itself of toxic materials and a healthful regime will not impose toxin buildup.

There are over 50 million Americans with sleep problems, almost one in four. People who suffer insomnia usually have a number of other complaints as well. Sleeplessness is but one symptom of body toxicity. Remove the toxicity and all complaints disappear simultaneously. Fasting enables the body to free itself of toxic materials and a healthful regime will not impose toxin buildup.

15.11. Our Biological Clock And Sleep

== Our Biological Clock And Sleep ==

 

Humans are diurnal creatures, that is, they conduct their conscious activities during the day. We are instinctively sleepers by night. The pattern of night/day sleeping continues even in subjects who are continuously kept in the dark for weeks at a time. The circadi- an rhythm is not disturbed by unceasing darkness. Experiments with subjects I kept in rooms without lighting for up to two weeks did not shake the rhythm, though subjects have had their rhythms lengthened and shortened while staying in caves lit with artifi- cial daylight. The change in rhythm they experienced corresponded with the shortened or extended “days.”

Humans are diurnal creatures, that is, they conduct their conscious activities during the day. We are instinctively sleepers by night. The pattern of night/day sleeping continues even in subjects who are continuously kept in the dark for weeks at a time. The circadi- an rhythm is not disturbed by unceasing darkness. Experiments with subjects I kept in rooms without lighting for up to two weeks did not shake the rhythm, though subjects have had their rhythms lengthened and shortened while staying in caves lit with artifi- cial daylight. The change in rhythm they experienced corresponded with the shortened or extended “days.”

Our sleep patterns gradually change when we change time zones, or when normal activities are changed by advancing or regressing the clock.

Our sleep patterns gradually change when we change time zones, or when normal activities are changed by advancing or regressing the clock.

15.12. Improving The IQ Through Sleep

== Improving The IQ Through Sleep ==

Your intelligence quotient depends upon how efficiently and intensely the brain oper- ates. It is well-known that caffeine will temporarily intensify and excite thinking until

 

 

I hear a lot lately that too much sleep can make you sick.  There is no such thing as oversleep. The body will not sleep beyond need. Consciousness returns when need has been met. We can’t control that. However, we can by many devices shorten our sleep and simply refuse to get enough.

 

 

This attitude comes about because medical opinion regards disease as a war against the body by invading forces such as bacteria or viruses or both. Disease and sickness are not recognized as a body-instituted cleansing and repair process. When the body’s vitality is increased by fresh air or by heightened nerve energy derived from sleep extraordinary to normal, the body uses the opportunity to start a healing crisis.

 

Rather than regarding sleep as an enemy of well-being, you should regard it as one way in which to more quickly help reestablish physiological normalcy. When in the relaxing and reassuring atmosphere of a fasting institution, many fasters start off by sleeping most of the time, sometimes for up to a week. When their bodies are sufficiently cleansed, they cannot sleep as much as is regarded normal. Note that in the case of heavy sleeping they could do so only because the body needed it to regenerate the increased nerve energy to restore normalcy. When normalcy has been reestablished, they find it impossible to get the amount of sleep they regard as normal. Thus we can see that oversleeping is myth, that the body will not, indeed, conduct the sleep process beyond need.

I can do no better than quote from the illustrious longtime Hygienic profession- al, Dr. V. Virginia Vetrano. Here are her observations on the immense value of nap- ping and of getting additional sleep when it is needed.

# Themorenerveenergythereisavailable,themoreofitthereisavailabletothebrainfor thought processes.  Hence, the more adequate our sleep, the more nerve energy we’ll have for the brain and for more intense thought processes. When “you’re sharper than a tack” your body is purer and your nerve energy greater than at other, mentally duller times.  Have a rejuvenating sleep!  15.13. Questions & Answers  Is oversleeping really bad for you? I hear a lot lately that too much sleep can make you sick.  There is no such thing as oversleep. The body will not sleep beyond need. Con- sciousness returns when need has been met. We can’t control that. However, we can by many devices shorten our sleep and simply refuse to get enough.  Sleep is a restorative agency, not a pathogenic practice, Medical men have said that fresh air is bad for you because it has been proven that city dwellers moving from polluted cities to vacation areas in fresh pure air get sick. Calling oversleeping pathogenic is similar to calling fresh air bad for you.  This attitude comes about because medical opinion regards disease as a war against the body by invading forces such as bacteria or viruses or both. Disease and sickness are not recognized as a body-instituted cleansing and repair process. When the body’s vitality is increased by fresh air or by heightened nerve energy derived from sleep extraordinary to normal, the body uses the opportunity to start a healing crisis.  Rather than regarding sleep as an enemy of well-being, you should regard it as one way in which to more quickly help reestablish physiological normalcy. When in the relaxing and reassuring atmosphere of a fasting institution, many fasters start off by sleeping most of the time, sometimes for up to a week. When their bodies are sufficiently cleansed, they cannot sleep as much as is regarded normal. Note that in the case of heavy sleeping they could do so only because the body needed it to regenerate the increased nerve energy to restore normalcy. When normalcy has been reestablished, they find it impossible to get the amount of sleep they regard as normal. Thus we can see that oversleeping is myth, that the body will not, indeed, conduct the sleep process beyond need.  What’s so great about napping?  I can do no better than quote from the illustrious longtime Hygienic profession- al, Dr. V. Virginia Vetrano. Here are her observations on the immense value of nap- ping and of getting additional sleep when it is needed. Napping is extremely important to every individual from birth to 140 years old. Taking a siesta after lunch improves digestion, absorption and assimilation and pro- motes better health through better nutrition. Taking naps prevents excessive fatigue and promotes better and more efficient work. Resting and napping actually increase our productivity. Taking a ten-minute rest break every hour helps us to get more done in less time. When one is fatigued, mental acuity and physical powers are

greatly diminished. Resting, including napping, sharpens the mind and body. By napping and preventing excessive fatigue, we are less nervous and irritable at night and we can fall asleep more quickly. It has been shown that there are fewer marital problems in those people who rest after lunch than in those who must put in long days without an afternoon nap or rest period.

Napping is extremely important to every individual from birth to 140 years old. Taking a siesta after lunch improves digestion, absorption and assimilation and pro- motes better health through better nutrition. Taking naps prevents excessive fatigue and promotes better and more efficient work. Resting and napping actually increase our productivity. Taking a ten-minute rest break every hour helps us to get more done in less time. When one is fatigued, mental acuity and physical powers are greatly diminished. Resting, including napping, sharpens the mind and body. By napping and preventing excessive fatigue, we are less nervous and irritable at night and we can fall asleep more quickly. It has been shown that there are fewer marital problems in those people who rest after lunch than in those who must put in long days without an afternoon nap or rest period.

If you go to bed exhausted, the body must first recuperate before it can begin its anabolic processes, cell renovation, cell renewal, healing and repair. A rested per- son going to bed will be more fully recuperated in the morning. A person going to bed exhausted will wake up only half refreshed, and must face another day with- out relaxation, so he is never fully revitalized, repaired, or replenished. As a conse- quence, toxemia and disease ensue.

If you go to bed exhausted, the body must first recuperate before it can begin its anabolic processes, cell renovation, cell renewal, healing and repair. A rested per- son going to bed will be more fully recuperated in the morning. A person going to bed exhausted will wake up only half refreshed, and must face another day with- out relaxation, so he is never fully revitalized, repaired, or replenished. As a conse- quence, toxemia and disease ensue.

Learn to nap and learn to rest. Rest during your coffee break and part of your lunch break, instead of stimulating yourself with too much food and beverage. Rest again until refreshed, upon arriving home from work. Teach yourself to work in a relaxed state, free from all tension. You will notice a definite physical and mental improvement when you secure more rest and prevent fatigue.

Learn to nap and learn to rest. Rest during your coffee break and part of your lunch break, instead of stimulating yourself with too much food and beverage. Rest again until refreshed, upon arriving home from work. Teach yourself to work in a relaxed state, free from all tension. You will notice a definite physical and mental improvement when you secure more rest and prevent fatigue.

You’ve said that sleep regenerates nerve energy. My biology book says sleep is for resting fatigued nerves that have been overwhelmed by toxin accumulation. It also says that the fatigue is caused by the need to restore deranged body chemistry, that is, restore potassium/sodium balances. Do you agree with this?

'''You’ve said that sleep regenerates nerve energy. My biology book says sleep is for resting fatigued nerves that have been overwhelmed by toxin accumulation. It also says that the fatigue is caused by the need to restore deranged body chemistry, that is, restore potassium/sodium balances. Do you agree with this?'''

I became a student of the sleep process in my early days as a Hygienist. I noted that, at first, I was sleeping so much that, even when working, my sleep was some- times most of the day. Later, after a fast of 12 days I noticed that I was going to bed at a normal hour but waking four to five hours later and unable to sleep further. I tried to find out why and thus steeped myself upon the subject.

I became a student of the sleep process in my early days as a Hygienist. I noted that, at first, I was sleeping so much that, even when working, my sleep was some- times most of the day. Later, after a fast of 12 days I noticed that I was going to bed at a normal hour but waking four to five hours later and unable to sleep further. I tried to find out why and thus steeped myself upon the subject.

You will note that I speak in these matters with a note of certainty and finality. After many years of researching the subject and reading all the researches and con- clusions, you don’t have to be a genius to see where the truth lies—it becomes as obvious as the nose on your face. It yells at you, quite literally. When you’re fol- lowing a wrong premise and give it power regardless of facts, you’ll always arrive at a wrong conclusion. I definitely regard your biology book as wrong.

You will note that I speak in these matters with a note of certainty and finality. After many years of researching the subject and reading all the researches and con- clusions, you don’t have to be a genius to see where the truth lies—it becomes as obvious as the nose on your face. It yells at you, quite literally. When you’re fol- lowing a wrong premise and give it power regardless of facts, you’ll always arrive at a wrong conclusion. I definitely regard your biology book as wrong.

Why don’t we get electrosleep devices if it supplies us with the nerve energy we need?

'''Why don’t we get electrosleep devices if it supplies us with the nerve energy we need?'''

Russians, Israelis and even Americans have conducted extensive research on electrosleep. The published researches I’ve read have failed to give many specifics, though much can be inferred.

Russians, Israelis and even Americans have conducted extensive research on electrosleep. The published researches I’ve read have failed to give many specifics, though much can be inferred.

I could find nothing in these researches that would indicate what happens to humans when the routines of their normal circadian rhythm are altered by elec- trosleep. The question of value of electrosleep must be weighed carefully against any liabilities it might have. More extensive studies into electrosleep must be made and published before its true value can be determined.

I could find nothing in these researches that would indicate what happens to humans when the routines of their normal circadian rhythm are altered by elec- trosleep. The question of value of electrosleep must be weighed carefully against any liabilities it might have. More extensive studies into electrosleep must be made and published before its true value can be determined.

Does sexual indulgence really make us sleep more?

'''Does sexual indulgence really make us sleep more?'''

Yes, we need more sleep because of sexual activity. There is a great intensity of nerve energy expenditure in the sex act. Under normal circumstances the male will, quite literally, exhaust himself and will often collapse in sleep. The body gets quite a “high” during the sexual climax because it secretes narcotizing endorphins. The overall effect lowers nerve energy to such an extent that the body demands sleep almost immediately to restore the expenditure. Nothing can equal the sex act as a “sleeping potion!” Moreover, the regeneration of sperm in the male requires a great body expenditure of both resources and nerve energy. Those resources are of the finest materials obtainable from the body reserves and cells. The body gives its very best to the reproduction of the species. Nature has placed the survival of the species ahead of individual survival.

Yes, we need more sleep because of sexual activity. There is a great intensity of nerve energy expenditure in the sex act. Under normal circumstances the male will, quite literally, exhaust himself and will often collapse in sleep. The body gets quite a “high” during the sexual climax because it secretes narcotizing endorphins. The overall effect lowers nerve energy to such an extent that the body demands sleep almost immediately to restore the expenditure. Nothing can equal the sex act as a “sleeping potion!” Moreover, the regeneration of sperm in the male requires a great body expenditure of both resources and nerve energy. Those resources are of the finest materials obtainable from the body reserves and cells. The body gives its very best to the reproduction of the species. Nature has placed the survival of the species ahead of individual survival.

Isn’t sex good for you?

'''Isn’t sex good for you?'''

Occasional sex indulgence is good for both the psyche and body faculties. Its frequent indulgence will, to put it in lay terms, “burn us out.” Sexual activity draws upon nerve energies the body requires for its most vital activities. If sexual indul- gence persists, the familiar syndromes of enervation, toxemia, irritation, inflamma- tion, ulceration, etc. ensue. Prostate cancer can be a result of excessive sexual in- dulgence in men. So-called general diseases are due to accumulated body toxins as a result of venery.

Occasional sex indulgence is good for both the psyche and body faculties. Its frequent indulgence will, to put it in lay terms, “burn us out.” Sexual activity draws upon nerve energies the body requires for its most vital activities. If sexual indul- gence persists, the familiar syndromes of enervation, toxemia, irritation, inflamma- tion, ulceration, etc. ensue. Prostate cancer can be a result of excessive sexual in- dulgence in men. So-called general diseases are due to accumulated body toxins as a result of venery.

Sex can be both good and bad for you. Keep in mind hat the conjugal act in animals occurs only when the female is in heat and only for the purpose of pro- creation. We have a culture that makes sexual activities an end in themselves. This practice may not be harmful if it is not overdone. It is very difficult to pronounce any standards upon these matters.

Sex can be both good and bad for you. Keep in mind hat the conjugal act in animals occurs only when the female is in heat and only for the purpose of pro- creation. We have a culture that makes sexual activities an end in themselves. This practice may not be harmful if it is not overdone. It is very difficult to pronounce any standards upon these matters.

Doesn’t sleep do the same thing as rest?

'''Doesn’t sleep do the same thing as rest?'''

While the body rests during sleep it does lot, under the condition of rest only, accomplish what it does under the condition of sleep. Rest enables the body to catch up on its metabolic activities, whereas sleep is primarily for the purpose of nerve regeneration.

While the body rests during sleep it does lot, under the condition of rest only, accomplish what it does under the condition of sleep. Rest enables the body to catch up on its metabolic activities, whereas sleep is primarily for the purpose of nerve regeneration.

I’ve read Better Sleep for a Better Life. It was a revelation for me. Why don’t scientists take note of it, especially its information about sleep being for regenerat- ing nerve energy? I haven’t read any other book that says this.

'''I’ve read Better Sleep for a Better Life. It was a revelation for me. Why don’t scientists take note of it, especially its information about sleep being for regenerat- ing nerve energy? I haven’t read any other book that says this.'''

I have said previously that Dr. Nathaniel Kleitman has formulated the theory that sleep is for the regeneration of nerve energy. He may have found this idea in Hygiene. Dr. Shelton said fifty years earlier that sleep restores nerve energy. Per- haps Dr. Kleitman’s findings were like those of the noted Uri Nicolayev of Russia, who fasted many schizophrenic patients with celebrated results. He was a student of Dr. Shelton’s writings and merely applied them in practice. Insofar as Dr. Kleitman has taken note of the Hygienic position, science has recognized the role of sleep.

I have said previously that Dr. Nathaniel Kleitman has formulated the theory that sleep is for the regeneration of nerve energy. He may have found this idea in Hygiene. Dr. Shelton said fifty years earlier that sleep restores nerve energy. Per- haps Dr. Kleitman’s findings were like those of the noted Uri Nicolayev of Russia, who fasted many schizophrenic patients with celebrated results. He was a student of Dr. Shelton’s writings and merely applied them in practice. Insofar as Dr. Kleitman has taken note of the Hygienic position, science has recognized the role of sleep.

I’ve heard it said that dreams should be taken seriously because there is always some deepseated meaning in them. What are your thoughts about this?

'''I’ve heard it said that dreams should be taken seriously because there is always some deepseated meaning in them. What are your thoughts about this?'''

Right off I’ll tell you the best thing about dreams is that they don’t come about in reality and have no overtones of significance. The only thing you should take se- rious about dreams is their role in saving the condition of sleep until it is more or less replete. Dreams are the body’s “lightning rod” that satiates vicariously disturb- ing impulses that arise in the body. Dreams “ground” the stimulating impulses that would normally prematurely return us to wakefulness.

Right off I’ll tell you the best thing about dreams is that they don’t come about in reality and have no overtones of significance. The only thing you should take se- rious about dreams is their role in saving the condition of sleep until it is more or less replete. Dreams are the body’s “lightning rod” that satiates vicariously disturb- ing impulses that arise in the body. Dreams “ground” the stimulating impulses that would normally prematurely return us to wakefulness.

Is it true that nightmares can be caused as a consequence of atrocious foods or upset stomach ? What causes nightmares?

'''Is it true that nightmares can be caused as a consequence of atrocious foods or upset stomach ? What causes nightmares?'''

Nightmares or terrors during sleep can arise from many impulses in the body including those generated by the distresses of a meal that cannot be digested but which gives problems instead. Fitful sleep results from poor body conditions such as in indigestion but also from aches, pains, inflammations and other body pathol- ogy. Nightmares may arise from fears that are not allayed during waking hours. Nightmares are nothing more than dreams that the body conducts to preserve sleep.

Nightmares or terrors during sleep can arise from many impulses in the body including those generated by the distresses of a meal that cannot be digested but which gives problems instead. Fitful sleep results from poor body conditions such as in indigestion but also from aches, pains, inflammations and other body pathol- ogy. Nightmares may arise from fears that are not allayed during waking hours. Nightmares are nothing more than dreams that the body conducts to preserve sleep.

Do water beds give you the equivalent of an extra hour of sleep as most sales- men for them claim?

'''Do water beds give you the equivalent of an extra hour of sleep as most salesmen for them claim?'''

If air circulation and warmth are properly met, this statement is true. The water bed enables full body weight to be evenly distributed over the entire underside in- stead of at a few contact points as on floors and hard beds. This extra comfort dis- turbs the body less than when there are pressure points as in much conventional bedding. The body can more efficiently conduct the sleeping process due to fewer disturbing factors.

If air circulation and warmth are properly met, this statement is true. The water bed enables full body weight to be evenly distributed over the entire underside in- stead of at a few contact points as on floors and hard beds. This extra comfort dis- turbs the body less than when there are pressure points as in much conventional bedding. The body can more efficiently conduct the sleeping process due to fewer disturbing factors.

Article #1: How To Put Yourself To Sleep Easily By A.F. Willat

== Article #1: How To Put Yourself To Sleep Easily By A.F. Willat ==

 

If you have difficulty going to sleep when you feel that you need it, and your brain is so active that you cannot stop thinking and it is keeping you awake, you can overcome the trouble by following in detail a certain routine of thinking positively. The reason you have this problem is because something important is on your mind at the time.

If you have difficulty going to sleep when you feel that you need it, and your brain is so active that you cannot stop thinking and it is keeping you awake, you can overcome the trouble by following in detail a certain routine of thinking positively. The reason you have this problem is because something important is on your mind at the time.

You must never doubt your ability to have this routine plan work. Don’t think about it. Just do it, and know that if you follow the directions correctly it will put you to sleep every time.

You must never doubt your ability to have this routine plan work. Don’t think about it. Just do it, and know that if you follow the directions correctly it will put you to sleep every time.

Article #2: Rest: A Much-Neglected Health Factor By Hereward

== Article #2: Rest: A Much-Neglected Health Factor By Hereward Carrington, Ph.D. ==

 

Carrington, Ph.D.

 

Some New Highlights On This Subject

Some New Highlights On This Subject

A wise oriental once said: “He who can perceive inaction in action, and action in in- action, is wise among men.”

A wise oriental once said: “He who can perceive inaction in action, and action in in- action, is wise among men.”

It is during the hours of rest and sleep—when we seem to be most passive—that something within us is intensely active, recharging us with vital energy for the next day. When we are active, we are expending energy; when we are seemingly inactive, we are receiving it. For “energy is always noted in its expenditure, never in its accumula-

It is during the hours of rest and sleep—when we seem to be most passive—that something within us is intensely active, recharging us with vital energy for the next day. When we are active, we are expending energy; when we are seemingly inactive, we are receiving it. For “energy is always noted in its expenditure, never in its accumulation.”

 

tion.”

Animals instinctively know this. So do babies! As the Irishman once remarked,

Animals instinctively know this. So do babies! As the Irishman once remarked,

Rest—external and internal—is a fundamental requisite for a healthy, normal life. The human protoplasm needs rest. It must have it. Nothing else will take its place. The human heart beats approximately 100,000 times every day—every twenty-four hours—and yet (if not abused) it can continue to function in this way for eighty or a hundred years. Why? Because, between each beat, your heart rests. It is a momentary rest, it is true, but enough to permit its recuperation. Activity and relaxation should al- ternate. That is the law of life. Obey this law, and health, harmony and happiness should be yours!

Rest—external and internal—is a fundamental requisite for a healthy, normal life. The human protoplasm needs rest. It must have it. Nothing else will take its place. The human heart beats approximately 100,000 times every day—every twenty-four hours—and yet (if not abused) it can continue to function in this way for eighty or a hundred years. Why? Because, between each beat, your heart rests. It is a momentary rest, it is true, but enough to permit its recuperation. Activity and relaxation should al- ternate. That is the law of life. Obey this law, and health, harmony and happiness should be yours!

Article #3: The Need For Rest By Dr. Herbert M. Shelton

== Article #3: The Need For Rest By Dr. Herbert M. Shelton ==

 

The motto of the early Hygienists—“health by healthful living”—was comprehensive and included within its scope the whole way of life. It did not refer to a plan of eating or a system of exercise or to any other single facet of life. From the time of Graham for- ward, it was fully realized that every facet of life was as important as every other if one hoped to maintain good health. It was also understood that all the elemental needs of life had to be met in keeping with the needs and capacities of the sick organism if health was to be restored.

The motto of the early Hygienists—“health by healthful living”—was comprehensive and included within its scope the whole way of life. It did not refer to a plan of eating or a system of exercise or to any other single facet of life. From the time of Graham for- ward, it was fully realized that every facet of life was as important as every other if one hoped to maintain good health. It was also understood that all the elemental needs of life had to be met in keeping with the needs and capacities of the sick organism if health was to be restored.

Our noisy civilization, which is growing more noisy day by day, is as great an evil as are air pollution and water pollution. If we could practically hibernate and effectively insulate ourselves against newspapers, magazines, television and radio and other sources of noise and excitement, we would refresh and replenish ourselves in a much shorter time and with greater efficiency.

Our noisy civilization, which is growing more noisy day by day, is as great an evil as are air pollution and water pollution. If we could practically hibernate and effectively insulate ourselves against newspapers, magazines, television and radio and other sources of noise and excitement, we would refresh and replenish ourselves in a much shorter time and with greater efficiency.

Article #4: Rest vs. Stimulation by Dr. Herbert M. Shelton

== Article #4: Rest vs. Stimulation by Dr. Herbert M. Shelton ==

 

Danger of Stimulation

Danger of Stimulation

The actual storing up of the energy reserves or the energy sources of the body takes place during rest. Activity expends and rest recuperates the body’s supplies. The stim- ulation (irritation and excitement) of an already depleted body only hastens the exhaus- tion of the few remaining energy-stores and brings on the final collapse sooner than it would have occurred otherwise. The more the body is stimulated, the sooner it reaches the state of complete collapse. The weaker the body is, the less able it is to withstand the “action” of stimulants—the greater is the necessity of “doing nothing” intelligently.

The actual storing up of the energy reserves or the energy sources of the body takes place during rest. Activity expends and rest recuperates the body’s supplies. The stim- ulation (irritation and excitement) of an already depleted body only hastens the exhaus- tion of the few remaining energy-stores and brings on the final collapse sooner than it would have occurred otherwise. The more the body is stimulated, the sooner it reaches the state of complete collapse. The weaker the body is, the less able it is to withstand the “action” of stimulants—the greater is the necessity of “doing nothing” intelligently.

Only those who have had sufficient experience with both the stimulating (wasting) practice and the resting (conserving practice to enable them to judge the merits of the two practices are in a position to pass judgment upon them. Anyone who has not com- pletely abandoned the stimulating practice and employed only the conserving practice on hundreds of patients and over a period of years, and who, in the face of this lack of experimental knowledge of the practice, proclaims the superiority of the stimulating practice and employed only the conserving position as were the armchair philosophers of the pre-Baconian period—he simply does not know, and cannot know, what he is talk- ing about; he is only spinning, spider-like, a fantastic theory out of the web of his fan- cies.

Only those who have had sufficient experience with both the stimulating (wasting) practice and the resting (conserving practice to enable them to judge the merits of the two practices are in a position to pass judgment upon them. Anyone who has not com- pletely abandoned the stimulating practice and employed only the conserving practice on hundreds of patients and over a period of years, and who, in the face of this lack of experimental knowledge of the practice, proclaims the superiority of the stimulating practice and employed only the conserving position as were the armchair philosophers of the pre-Baconian period—he simply does not know, and cannot know, what he is talk- ing about; he is only spinning, spider-like, a fantastic theory out of the web of his fancies.