Occupation for Health: Re-activating the Regimen Sanitatis

Abstract

The notion that occupation influences people's health extends far back into human history. Using a history of ideas methodology, this paper examines one aspect of that history—the Regimen Sanitatis. Developed at the time of classical Greek medicine, the regimen is a set of rules for healthy living that were influential from the 12^th to the 19^th centimes. In particular, those rules that address what people should do or not do in order to sustain or regain health are examined here. These include rules in relation to activity and rest, eating and drinking, getting enough sleep, and bodily functions such as evacuation The importance and present day relevance of the Regimen is suggested in relation to equivalent modern day occupations. In addition, the strategies used to promulgate the Regimen are examined to determine what made them so successful. Finally, a re-activation of the Regimen in a modern format to address current health concerns is called for.

Keywords:

• Health regimes
• History of ideas
• Health promotion
• Occupational therapy