The art is long, life is short
HippocratesRead
The body of man has in itself blood, phlegm, yellow bile and black bile; these make up the nature of this body, and through these he feels pain or enjoys health. Now he enjoys the most perfect health when these elements are duly proportioned to one another in respect of compounding, power and bulk, and when they are perfectly mingled.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the balance of bodily fluids for optimal health.
Hippocrates' quote illustrates the ancient belief in the four humors—blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile—as fundamental to human health. It suggests that perfect health is achieved when these elements are in proper proportion and harmony within the body, reflecting the holistic view of health prevalent in ancient medicine.
Themes
HealthBalanceHumorsWellnessBody
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about holistic health at a wellness conference.
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A wise man ought to realize that health is his most valuable possession.
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