The Health Sonnet

If you want to keep healthy, follow these rules: don’t eat unless you feel inclined and dine lightly, chew well and let what you take in be well cooked and of simple make.

Whoever takes medicines is ill-advised. Beware of anger and stay away from unhealthy air; stand upright when you leave the table; during the day avoid sleeping.

Be temperate with wine, drink little and often, never away from meals, nor on an empty stomach. Don’t put off going to the privy. If you take exercise, let it be light.

Don’t lie with your stomach up and your head lowered, and stay well covered at night. Rest your head and keep a happy mind. Shun lust and follow the diet.