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Chapter XXIII: Rules for Relaxation.1911
almost complete state of relaxation. When they fall they come down “all in
a heap” and suffer comparatively little injury.
In practicing these exercises repeat each of them several times and
then pass on to the next one. These exercises may be almost indefinitely
extended and varied, according to the ingenuity and power of invention
of the student. Make your own exercises, if you will, using the above as
suggestions.
Practicing relaxation exercises, gives one a consciousness of self-control
and repose, which is valuable. Strength in repose is the idea to be carried
in the mind when thinking of the Yogi Relaxation theories. It is useful in
quieting overwrought nerves; is an antidote for what is known as “musclebound”
conditions resulting from the employment of certain sets of
muscles in one’s daily work or exercise, and is a valuable acquirement in the
direction of allowing one to rest himself at will and to thus regain his vitality
in the shortest possible time. The Oriental people understand the science
of relaxation and employ it in their daily life. They will undertake journeys
which would frighten a Western man, and after traveling many miles will make
a resting place, upon which they will throw themselves down, relaxing every
muscle and withdrawing the prana from all the voluntary muscles, allowing
themselves to remain limp and apparently lifeless from head to foot. They
indulge in a doze at the same time, if practicable, but if not they remain wide
awake, with senses active and alert, but with the bodily muscles as above
stated. One hour of this rest refreshes them as much, or more, than a night’s
sleep does the average man. They start on their journey again, refreshed
and with new life and energy. Nearly all the wandering races and tribes have
acquired this knowledge. It seems to have been intuitively acquired by the
American Indian, the Arab, the savage tribes of Africa, and, in fact, races in
all parts of the world. Civilized man has allowed this gift to lapse, because
he has ceased to make the long journeys on foot, but it would be well for
him to regain this lost knowledge and to use same to relieve the fatigue and