TO SLEEP OR NOT TO SLEEP; THAT IS THE QUESTION.
By Julia H. Duffie
Why is it that people will swelter and gasp, passing sleepless nights in the most stifling corner of the room, when by a trifling exertion and the exercise of a little good sense they might sleep alongside the open window in close proximity to the best air outside? It seems as unaccountably ridiculous as for one to perish from thirst within easy reach of a spring of fresh, cool water. There are usually as many windows in a home as there are beds; then why not have the beds in front of the windows, and if we must have those eight-foot head-boards, do let us turn about at night, at least, and make our beds with the pillows at the low foot-board, thus permitting what air may be stirring to circulate freely about the head of the sleepers. Of course there are invalids and delicate children who could not endure so much exposure at first, but those in ordinary health, as well as many feeble persons, could very soon accustom themselves to these conditions, and be greatly benefited by them. In all cases a draw curtain of cloth of sufficient thickness should be hung, which could be drawn over the lower half of the window almost without awakening whenever the air became too cool or damp to fall directly on the person, as it usually does before morning. Screens are also quite necessary for this mode of sleeping. East or north windows are of course preferable, but those on the south or west side are better than none. In that case the sun needs to be shut off the bed during the hottest portion of the day. A cool sponge bath just before retiring is a great promoter of rest and sleep, also leaving off every article of clothing worn during the day, and donning a fresh, cool sleeping robe. A little attention to these details will help us through the hot season very comfortably. Then— Open the windows and let in the air;
Of great nature's bounties freely share;
She is kind to those who are true to her;
Then why share the fate of a trespasser?