HOWER BATH.

The effects of the shower bath are, on the whole, similar to those of
the plunge bath of the same degree of temperature, except that the
immediate shock of the shower bath is in general felt to be greater
than that from simple immersion. This, however, may be met by putting
warm water into the bottom of the bath in sufficient quantity to cover
the ankles of the individual taking the bath, which tends at once to
lessen the shock, and to increase the reaction.

The apprehension and alarm experienced by young children in entering
this kind of bath is easily overcome, by using at first a modification
of it, lately brought into use. It consists of a tin vessel in the form
of a large bottle, pierced at the bottom like a colander, and
terminating in the upper part in a narrow tube, with an open mouth.
When put into water it becomes filled, which is retained by closing the
mouth of the tube with the finger; on removing which the water flows
gradually out of the sieve-like bottom in a gentle shower. This may be
used to the youngest child. At first the quantity of water employed
should be small, and its temperature warm; as, however, the child grows
older and accustomed to the bath, the former may be increased, and the
latter lowered. Its tonic effect may be augmented by the addition
ofbay salt, and by much active rubbing.

As the child gets older the common form of shower bath may be used,
and throughout the year, if he enjoy robust health; during the winter
season, however, the water should be made tepid. This bath should be
taken immediately upon rising from bed.

ABLUTION, OR SPONGING.

By ablution is meant the process of applying water to the surface of
the body by means of a sponge or towel. It is one of the best
substitutes for the cold bath; and if done quickly and thoroughly,
produces a glow and invigoration of frame almost equal to the former.
It is also the surest preventive against catching cold.

Every child in health ought to be obliged, every morning of its life
(when other means of bathing cannot be obtained), upon rising, and
while the body still retains all the warmth of the bed, to sponge the
whole body. If too young to do it for himself, it must be done for him.
Salt or vinegar should be added to the water; and if the boy be robust,
cold water may be used throughout the year; if not, in the winter
season it must be made tepid.

As a remedy, cold water sponging, and the applicat