The air has a very soothing effect upon the body when allowed to come in
contact with the entire surface. It answers a very valuable purpose when
a water bath is impossible, or when the patient is too feeble to endure
the application of water. A sleepless person will often fall into a
sound and refreshing slumber after walking a few minutes in his room
with the whole body exposed to the air. The effects of night labor upon
literary people may be partially counteracted by the air bath. Benjamin
Franklin was accustomed to pursue his writing to a late hour after
divesting himself of his clothing, and he recommends the practice to
others compelled to labor late with the pen.