The art of preserving health: A poem

"The Art of Preserving Health: A Poem" by John Armstrong is a philosophical poem written in the mid-18th century. The work explores themes of health, nature, and the balance of physical and mental well-being, using poetic devices to reflect on the importance of environment, diet, and exercise in maintaining health. It serves as a guide to living a healthy life, emphasizing the interconnectedness of body and mind. At the start of the poem, Armstrong invokes Hygeia, the goddess of health, highlighting her vital role in sustaining life and mitigating illness. He describes the essential elements of air, urging readers to avoid polluted cities and seek the purifying presence of nature. The opening sets a tone that intertwines poetic elegance with practical advice, addressing various factors affecting health, including the quality of air, the influence of different habitats on well-being, and the importance of choosing a healthy diet. Armstrong’s rich imagery and thoughtful insights encourage a mindful approach to health, urging individuals to cultivate a lifestyle that harmonizes with natural elements. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Dr. John Armstrong (1709–1779) was a physician, poet, and satirist. He was born at Castleton Manse, the son of Robert Armstrong, minister of Castleton, Roxburghshire, Scotland John studied medicine and gained his MD at the renowned University of Edinburgh before establishing a successful medical practice in London.