l matter.

One who habitually breathes through the nostrils is not likely to be
troubled with clogged or stuffy nostrils, but for the benefit of those
who have been more or less addicted to the unnatural mouth-breathing,
and who wish to acquire the natural and rational method, it may
perhaps be well to add a few words regarding the way to keep their
nostrils clean and free from impurities.

A favorite Oriental method is to snuff a little water up the nostrils
allowing it to run down the passage into the throat, from thence it
may be ejected through the mouth. Some Hindu yogis immerse the face in
a bowl of water, and by a sort of suction draw in quite a quantity of
water, but this latter method requires considerable practice, and the
first mentioned method is equally efficacious, and much more easily
performed.

Another good plan is to open the window and breathe freely, closing
one nostril with the finger or thumb, sniffing up the air through the
open nostril. Then repeat the process on the other nostril. Repeat
several times, changing nostrils. This method will usually clear the
nostrils of obstructions.

In case the trouble is caused by catarrh it is well to apply a little
vaseline or camphor ice or similar preparation. Or sniff up a little
witch-hazel extract once in a while, and you will notice a marked
improvement. A little care and attention will result in the nostrils
becoming clean and remaining so.

We have given considerable space to this subject of nostril-breathing,
not only because of its great importance in its reference to health,
but because nostril-breathing is a prerequisite to the practice of the
breathing exercises to be given later in this book, and because
nostril-breathing is one of the basic principles underlying the Yogi
Science of Breath.

We urge upon the student the necessity of acquiring this method of
breathing if he has it not, and caution him against dismissing this
phase of the subject as unimportant.

CHAPTER VII.

FOUR METHODS OF RESPIRATION.

In the consideration of the question of respiration, we must begin by
considering the mechanical arrangements whereby the respiratory
movements are effected. The mechanics of respiration manifest through
(1) the elastic movements of the lungs, and (2) the activities of the
sides and bottom of the thoracic cavity in which the lungs are
contained. The thorax is that portion of the trunk between the neck
and the abdomen, the cav