Climate And Soil

Sources: Papers On Health

The soil on which one lives is a matter of primary

importance; it may be a matter of life or death for a weakly person,

but it is important for every one. First, as regards the subsoil on

which a house is built. If this be clay, or impervious rock, then no

possible system of drainage can make the site a dry one; this condition

of affairs will be very bad indeed for health. No house should be built

on such a soil if at ll possible to avoid it. Light open gravel and

sand, as subsoil, make the very best health conditions. The surface

soil is also important. If this be such that streets and garden walks

dry quickly after rain, you have elements of health; if they remain

long wet, then you have elements of unhealthiness. If the soil be

right, then the climate is to be considered. The mere situation of two

houses, only half a mile apart, will make all the difference in this,

and should be carefully watched. A house sheltered on the south and

west, exposed to the north and east, is badly situated; the opposite

exposure is usually good. Plenty of sun should fall upon the house all

day, and on all sides, if that be possible. Yet it must be seen that no

hollow or stagnant air be chosen; it is nearly as bad as stagnant

water, for in mild winds, dryness of soil and air, and abundant sun,

lie much virtue for health and healing.