Page:The Message and Ministrations of Dewan Bahadur R. Venkata Ratnam, volume 2.djvu/102



In health — be it of body or of mind — there is a negative or abstinent, as there is a positive or active, element of duty. On the one hand, we have to curb certain cravings or refrain from certain deeds; while, on the other hand, we should systematically exercise certain faculties or diligently practise certain acts. The duty of building up and preserving a sound body, which is undoubtedly a necessary and valuable accompaniment and auxiliary of a sound mind, resolves itself into the three main factors of temperance chastity and exercise. Scrupulous abstinence in food and drink; unblemished purity in thought, word and deed ; and free and healthy exercise to the system in harmless and invigorating recreation — these are the very tripod of health. And considering the present tastes, tendencies