The Hindu-Yogi Science of Breath (1903) by Yogi Ramacharaka

Master Key Society

Master Key Society

159 min, 9 sec

This book delves into the philosophy and practice of yogic breathing for physical, mental, psychic, and spiritual development.

Summary

  • Explains the fundamental principles of yogic breathing known as Pranayama, which influences physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
  • Describes various breathing techniques, such as the Complete Breath, which is central to Pranayama practice.
  • Discusses the impact of rhythmic breathing on health, including the enhancement of vitality and the promotion of inner calm and concentration.
  • Provides specific exercises for developing the lungs, controlling emotions, healing oneself and others, and advancing one’s spiritual growth.
  • Emphasizes the significance of rhythmic breathing in attaining higher states of consciousness and connecting with the Universal Life force.

Chapter 1

Introduction and Overview

0:05 - 25 sec

Introduction to the book and its publication details.

Introduction to the book and its publication details.

  • The book is a comprehensive guide to yogic breathing philosophy.
  • It was originally published by the Yogi Publications Society in 1903.
  • This recording is produced by the Master Key Society.

Chapter 2

Misconceptions about Yogis

0:45 - 5 min, 43 sec

Clarifying misconceptions about Yogis, highlighting the true nature of their practices.

Clarifying misconceptions about Yogis, highlighting the true nature of their practices.

  • Westerners often have a confused understanding of Yogis and their practices due to misleading tales about fakirs and mountebanks in India.
  • True Yogis are misrepresented by these impostors much like the titles 'Doctor' and 'Professor' are misused by unqualified individuals.
  • Genuine Yogi teachings are profound and historically rooted in the development of the human physical, mental, and spiritual capacities.

Chapter 3

Breath and Life

6:34 - 2 min, 26 sec

Exploring the vital connection between breathing and life.

Exploring the vital connection between breathing and life.

  • Life is deeply dependent on breathing, which is central to all functions of the body.
  • Improper breathing leads to multiple health issues, but correct breathing can enhance vitality and disease resistance.
  • Breathing impacts everything from physical health to mental powers and spiritual growth.

Chapter 4

Yogi Breathing Exercises Introduction

53:54 - 2 min, 5 sec

Introduction to the various yogic breathing exercises for development and health.

  • Yogis have long practiced specialized breathing exercises for comprehensive development.
  • The exercises are designed to harness 'prana,' also known as life force or vital energy, for physical and spiritual enhancement.
  • Yogi breathing methods have a profound impact on the respiratory system and the overall health of practitioners.

Chapter 5

Yogi Cleansing Breath

81:03 - 2 min, 11 sec

Yogi technique for cleansing and refreshing the lungs.

Yogi technique for cleansing and refreshing the lungs.

  • The Yogi Cleansing Breath helps to ventilate and cleanse the lungs.
  • This technique involves a series of exhalations punctuated by retention, effectively purging the respiratory system.
  • It is recommended as a concluding exercise after other breathing practices.

Chapter 6

Yogi Nerve Vitalizing Breath

84:02 - 1 min, 23 sec

A Yogi exercise for stimulating the nervous system and increasing vitality.

A Yogi exercise for stimulating the nervous system and increasing vitality.

  • The Yogi Nerve Vitalizing Breath is a powerful exercise for invigorating the nervous system.
  • The technique involves tensing the muscles during inhalation and relaxation during exhalation.
  • Regular practice results in increased vitality and a sense of rejuvenation.

Chapter 7

Yogi Vocal Breath

9:19 - 2 min, 12 sec

Yogi method for enhancing vocal strength and quality.

Yogi method for enhancing vocal strength and quality.

  • The Yogi Vocal Breath is practiced to develop a strong, clear, and melodious voice.
  • The exercise consists of specific inhalation and exhalation patterns designed to stimulate the vocal organs.
  • Yogis attribute their remarkable vocal abilities to this particular breathing practice.

Chapter 8

Yogi Seven Developing Exercises

5:40 - 92 min, 47 sec

Seven Yogi exercises for enhancing physical capabilities and lung capacity.

Seven Yogi exercises for enhancing physical capabilities and lung capacity.

  • These exercises focus on strengthening the respiratory muscles and expanding lung capacity.
  • Each exercise targets different aspects of breathing and physical development.
  • They serve as a form of physical culture and are fundamental to advancing in yogic practices.

Chapter 9

Seven Minor Yogi Exercises

98:09 - 1 min, 25 sec

A collection of less intense Yogi exercises for varied purposes.

A collection of less intense Yogi exercises for varied purposes.

  • The exercises address specific needs such as improving circulation and healing.
  • They include techniques for energy recharging, healing others, and controlling emotions.
  • These exercises are adaptable and can be modified to suit individual requirements.

Chapter 10

Phenomena of Yogi Psychic Breathing

104:11 - 22 min, 33 sec

Practices for enhancing psychic abilities through controlled breathing.

Practices for enhancing psychic abilities through controlled breathing.

  • Yogic breathing is used to develop psychic powers like thought projection and distant healing.
  • Exercises involve rhythmic breathing paired with focused intention and visualization.
  • They also cover protecting oneself from negative influences and transmuting reproductive energy.

Chapter 11

More Phenomena of Yogi Psychic Breathing

126:48 - 29 min, 51 sec

Advanced techniques for psychic development and spiritual growth.

Advanced techniques for psychic development and spiritual growth.

  • These exercises aim at developing higher states of consciousness and spiritual faculties.
  • Practitioners work towards realizing the independence of the Soul and its connection with the Universal Spirit.
  • The methods include meditation, rhythmic breathing, and the application of willpower.

Chapter 12

Yogi Spiritual Breathing

157:03 - 1 min, 49 sec

Practices focused on achieving spiritual awareness and connection with the Universal Mind.

Practices focused on achieving spiritual awareness and connection with the Universal Mind.

  • Exercises facilitate the realization of Soul consciousness and the Universal Consciousness.
  • They involve meditative states and rhythmic breathing to promote spiritual unfoldment.
  • The practices are intended for those who are ready to advance their spiritual development.