1) Keep the mind at peace – worry, temper and anger never accomplished anything but harm. They injure the
brain and cell and cause formation of poisonous materials that damage the nervous system and cause disease.
No one can digest a meal while angry. Think twice before tempted to speak or act in anger; you may add years
and happiness to your life.
2) Take rest periods – the nerves and tissues cannot be under continual strain without injury. The regular
routine of life is wearing upon the body; take vacation with a change of scenery. This will prolong and increase
happiness.
3) Sleep regularly – nature has made provisions for periods of rest during sleep in which the strength is
recuperated and the tissues are repaired. Let your sleeping times be regular. Too much sleep is harmful, most
need 6 to 8 hours daily.
4) Eat correctly and regularly. The meals should be regular. Never eat to excess, avoid highly seasoned foods
and do not eat when excited or exhausted. Chew food slowly.
5) Drink properly. Every tissue of the body contains water. It gives form to the structures and lubricates the
passages. Avoid drinking much liquids at meal times as it dilutes the gastric juices and interferes with digestion.
6) Breathe correctly. Since the blood from the body comes into the lungs to be purified by the air, it is important
to breathe pure air and as much as possible. Take deep and regular inspirations so as to allow the lungs to
expand. Ensure the bedroom is well ventilated.
7) Keep the skin active. This is important as correct breathing. There are millions of pores in the skin, through
which, poisonous waste material is being given off from the body. If the pores become clogged, the poisonous
material is re-absorbed.
8) Exercise regularly. The body is constructed for use, when not it soon becomes diseased. Exercise within
reasonable bounds is absolutely necessary to maintain health.
9) Shun bad habit. Stay away from bad habits that are detrimental to health. If not formed, then there is no
effort needed to break them.
10) Do not injure the body. Do not compress the body to “improve shape”. Tights bras, girdles, shoes and
other garments must be avoided. Also, avoid narcotics or poisons which by nature, injure and destroy the body.
| Dr. Pancoast’s Rules for a Long Life |