Pedestrianism

MODERN PEDESTRIANISM. 41 etiefgy of ourminds, thus facilitating the ac­ quisition of human knowledge. Exercise on foot is allowed to be the most natural and perfect, as it employs every part of the body, and effectually promotes the cir­ culation of the blood through the arteries and veins.— " WALKING ," says Dr. Willich*, "the most salutary and natural-exercise, is in the power of every body; and we can adapt its degree and duration to the various circum­ stances of health. By this exercise the appe­ tite and perspirationare promoted; the body is kept in proper temperament; the mind is enlivened ; the motion of the lungs is facili­ tated ; and the rigidity of the legs arising from too much sitting, is relieved. The most obstinate diseases, and the most troublesome hysteric andhypochondriacal complaints, have been frequently cured by perseverance in walking.'* Pedestrian feats, even when carried to ex­ cess, are seldom attended by any pernicious effects. The exhaustion occasioned bysevere * Chap. vii.p. 447. '. \ F exercise