The Simple Life
31. One need not degenerate physically because his occupation is sedentary. Always sit erect, with chest held high and the small of the back supported. Sit as little as possible. Standing and lying are more natural and healthful positions than sitting. One may exercise while sitting at work by deep breathing and by stiffening the muscles of first one limb a few seconds, then the other. All the muscles in the body may be exercised in this way.
32. Deep breathing aids digestion, encourages liver and bowel action, develops the lungs, and purifies the blood. The only directions needed are: Hold the chest high and breathe as deep as you can ten or twenty times every hour, or oftener. The best "breath" gymnastics are swimming, hill- or stair-climbing, and rapid walking or running. Always breathe through the nose.
33. In walking, always hold the chest high and carry it well to the front. Swing the arms moderately, and walk fast enough to hasten the breathing a little. Nine miles walking a day at the rate of three miles an hour is the necessary amount for the average adult. Most housekeepers and laborers do more.
34. Develop the abdominal muscles by some simple exercises, such as walking on tiptoe with
