d in
rhythm, will start into motion vibrations which will in time destroy a
bridge. The same result is true when a regiment of soldiers crosses a
bridge, the order being always given to "break step" on such an
occasion, lest the vibration bring down both bridge and regiment.
These manifestations of the effect of rhythmic motion will give you an
idea of the effect on the body of rhythmic breathing. The whole system
catches the vibration and becomes in harmony with the will, which
causes the rhythmic motion of the lungs, and while in such complete
harmony will respond readily to orders from the will. With the body
thus attuned, the Yogi finds no difficulty in increasing the
circulation in any part of the body by an order from the will, and in
the same way he can direct an increased current of nerve force to any
part or organ, strengthening and stimulating it.

In the same way the Yogi by rhythmic breathing "catches the swing," as
it were, and is able to absorb and control a greatly increased amount
of prana, which is then at the disposal of his will. He can and does
use it as a vehicle for sending forth thoughts to others and for
attracting to him all those whose thoughts are keyed in the same
vibration. The phenomena of telepathy, thought transference, mental
healing, mesmerism, etc., which subjects are creating such an interest
in the Western world at the present time, but which have been known to
the Yogis for centuries, can be greatly increased and augmented If the
person sending forth the thoughts will do so after rhythmic breathing.
Rhythmic breathing will increase the value of mental healing, magnetic
healing, etc., several hundred per cent.

In rhythmic breathing the main thing to be acquired is the mental idea
of rhythm. To those who know anything of music, the idea of measured
counting is familiar. To others, the rhythmic step of the soldier:
"Left, right; left, right; left, right; one, two, three, four; one,
two, three, four," will convey the idea.

The Yogi bases his rhythmic time upon a unit corresponding with the
beat of his heart. The heart beat varies in different persons, but the
heart beat unit of each person is the proper rhythmic standard for
that particular individual in his rhythmic breathing. Ascertain your
normal heart beat by placing your fingers over your pulse, and then
count: "1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6," etc., until the rhythm
becomes firmly fixed in your mind. A little practice wil