Magick in Theory and Practice (Section 4)

LIBER RV vel SPIRITUS SUB FIGURA CCVL 2. Let the Zelator observe the current of his breath. 3. Let him investigate the following statements, and préparé a careful record of research. (a) Certain actions induce the flow of the breath through the right nostril (Pingala) 5 and, conversely, the flow of the breath through Pingala induces certain actions. (b) Certain other actions induce the flow of the breath through the left nostril (Ida), and conversely. (c) Yet a third class of actions induce the flow of the breath through both nostrils at once (Sushumna), and conversely. (d) The degree of mental and physical activity is interdependent with the distance from the nostrils at which the breath can be felt by the back of the hand. 4. First practice. — Let him concentrate his mind upon the act of breathing, saying mentally, “The breath flows in”, “the breath flows out”, and record the results. [This practice may résolve itself into Mahasatipatthana (vide Liber XXV) or induce Samadhi. Whichever occurs should be followed up as the right Ingenium of the Zelator, or the advice of his Practicus, may détermine.] 5. Second practice. Pranayama. — This is outlined in Liber E. Further, let the Zelator accomplished in those practices endeavour to master a cycle of 10, 20, 40 or even 16, 32, 64. But let this be done gradually and with due caution. And when he is steady and easy both in Asana and Pranayama, let him still further increase the period. Thus let him investigate these statements which follow: — (a) If Pranayama be properly performed, the body will first of ail become covered with sweat. This sweat is different in character from that customarily induced by exertion. If the Practitioner rub this sweat thoroughly into his body, he will greatly strengthen it. 405