206 The Law of the Rhythmic Breath 



flit through the mind. It is the beginning of 

 discipline to watch these vagaries. They will sur- 

 prise you, but you will soon realize that you your- 

 self are above and superior to the mind. You will 

 separate yourself from it; and next will come the 

 calm and confidence derived from consciousness of 

 power to check and control the whole unruly tribe 

 of trouble-makers and peace- and mind-destroyers. 

 This, however, is not gained in a day, nor is it the 

 reward of irregular, haphazard practice. 



The influence of the Zodiac upon other vital cen- 

 ters, showing what is gained by concentration upon 

 them, will be fully explained as we continue this 

 study of the inter-relations of man and the Uni- 

 verse. 



In all practice, assume an easy, erect posture 

 (not "slumping" nor lounging; that is). This 

 is especially important in the Held-Breath exercise ; 

 for as the object in view is to obtain control of 

 Prana, the region of the principle Nddis through 

 which the currents flow must be free from all con- 

 straint or strain. These lessons ought to have con- 

 vinced everyone already that at all times any pres- 

 sure upon the spinal column is an iniquitous menace 

 to the very reservoir of life. But especially dur- 

 ing periods of practice should attention be given to 

 the absolute freedom of the spine and chest which 

 should form an erect support for the neck and head 

 poised in line above them. To twist or crook the 



