Personal Opinion and Summary
This book has been a pleasant surprise. From the start, I found it much more accessible than other texts on the subject. Compared to the previous review, the book about the world beyond death.
This one it’s easy to read and extremely practical.
Table of Contents
Exoteric and Esoteric Content
The author begins by explaining the respiratory and circulatory systems in a clear, straightforward way, which he calls the “exoteric” approach. It’s a basic biological explanation that’s even more understandable than what we learned in school. From there, he dives into the important stuff: the “esoteric” aspect of prana and vitality, all while grounding it in undeniable biological principles we can verify in our own bodies. This makes the content surprisingly practical. And easy to visualize.
This approach helped me assess my own breathing. During the day, I thought I was breathing fine, but after reading the book, I realized that at night, I tend to breathe through my mouth. Just that realization alone made the 200 pages worth it!
(edit: still happening one month after finishing the book, and it was happening during the day but now less and less)
The Power of Prana and Breathing
The book gradually delves into a deeper analysis of vital energy, or “prana.” At first, it might seem hard to believe, but Ramacharaka explains it in such a simple and accessible way that it actually makes sense. This is rare for esoteric texts, which often drift into abstract concepts. Here, everything is clear and directly applicable to everyday life.
I can confidently say that this book is extremely practical. Unlike other, more philosophical books that get lost in abstract ideas, this one is packed with advice you can start using right away.
Also, there one tiny detail, which is this book doesn’t really dives deep into Pranayama, something that is complex for understand and practice without guide.
Personal Changes
Since I started reading it, I’ve become much more aware of my breathing, especially in terms of using abdominal breathing correctly. In just two weeks, I’ve seen major improvements, although some techniques can be a bit uncomfortable at first. But that’s all part of the process.
The author also touches on more advanced topics, like distance healing through prana, which might sound like a stretch. Yet, he explains it so coherently that it’s hard not to be intrigued. To be honest, I’m not quite there yet. Right now, I’m focused on mastering conscious breathing and improving my sleep by keeping my mouth closed at night. Maybe magnetic healing is a project for the future.
Is This Book for You?
The book starts with the basics and gradually moves to more advanced concepts, so don’t worry if it feels too simple at first. It’s like a slow-cooked stew: each chapter adds a new ingredient that enriches the final result. As you progress, you’re introduced to deeper ideas, like using breathing and prana to improve your health and even help others.
If you’re into occultism, yogic science, or just want to improve your overall well-being, you’re going to love this book. Yogi Ramacharaka has been a real discovery for me, and I plan to read more of his work.
Final Thoughts
This 200-page book teaches you something as simple yet vital as how to breathe better. At first glance, it might seem like a lot for such a basic topic, but it’s not. If you have any knowledge of biology or yogic practices, you’ll probably have several “aha” moments as you read.
So, my friends, I highly recommend this book if you want to improve your health, your vital energy, and, who knows, maybe live to 100 years! Breathe better, and who knows what you’ll achieve.
And to my readers on Google Analytics, especially the two people reading me from China—thank you! To the rest who haven’t arrived yet, you’re on your way. Because, as the saying goes, “You don’t light a lamp to hide it under the bed.”
“”Breath is the vital force, the spirit of life, and the basis of all the higher manifestations of the soul.””
Yogi Ramacharaka
The Book Itself The Hindu-Yogi Science of Breath
-Previous post about the book:
Part I , Part 2, Part 3
