In the preceding chapter of this book we have explained to you that the human body is made of millions of tiny cells, each endowed with sufficient matter to enable it to do its work—with sufficient Prana to give it the energy it requires—with sufficient “mind-stuff” to give it the degree of intelligence with which […]
The student will notice, as he reads the chapters of this book, that there is an esoteric and an exoteric side of Hatha Yoga. By “esoteric” we mean “designed for only the specially initiated; private” (Webster’s Dictionary), and by “exoteric” we mean “external; public—opp. to esoteric” (Webster’s Dictionary). The exoteric or public side of the […]
We have told you in other chapters of this book, how Prana may be obtained from the air, food and water. We have given you detailed instruction in breathing, in eating, in the use of fluids. There remains but little more for us to say upon the subject. But before leaving it, we have thought […]
The Science of Relaxation forms a very important part of the Hatha Yoga philosophy and many of the Yogis have devoted much care and study to this branch of the subject. At first glance it may appear to the average reader that the idea of teaching people how to relax-how to rest-is ridiculous, as every […]
Thoughts take form in action, and actions react upon the mind. These two truths stand together. One is as true as the other. We have heard much of the influence of the mind over the body, but we must not forget that the body, or its attitudes and positions, react upon the mind and influence […]
Man in his original state did not need to be instructed in physical exercise—neither does a child or youth with normal tastes. Man’s original state of living gave him an abundance of varied activity, out-of-doors, and with all the best conditions for exercise. He was compelled to seek his food, to prepare it, to raise […]
Before telling you about these exercises, we wish again to impress upon you that exercise without interest fails in its effect. You must manage to take an interest in your exercise, and to throw some mind into it. You must learn to like the work, and to think of what it all means. By following […]
It should not be necessary to devote a chapter of this hook to the importance of bathing. But even in this, the twentieth, century a great mass of the people understand practically nothing about this subject. In the large cities the easy access to the bathtub has, in a measure, educated the people up to […]
Now, do not pass-by this chapter, because it treats of a very common subject. If you feel inclined to so pass it by—then you are the very person for whom it is intended, and by whom it is most needed. Those who have looked into the matter and have learned something of the benefit and […]
Of all of nature’s functions that should be understood by people, sleep seems the one which should be so simple that no instruction or advice should be needed. The child needs no elaborate treatise upon the value and necessity of sleep—it just sleeps, that’s all. And the adult would do the same if he lived […]