This exercise prefaces and ends every exercise in breathing. By prefacing an exercise, it makes space in the lungs for a capacity volume of new breath; by ending an exercise, it serves the important function of relaxing the whole body. It should be studied very carefully.
Exhale (blow out) energetically, saying “ss” between the teeth. Exaggerate the hissing sound of “s”. This protects the throat. While doing this, bring shoulders and head forward as in Photograph 1 (a). This helps to press out that air which is never entirely removed from the lungs. We call this the residual air.
After exhaling all you can, begin the second part of this exercise by doing the opposite. Inhale slowly through the nose, gradually bringing the out-stretched arms overhead, performing a circle; also bring head and shoulders back, filling the lungs in all parts to great capacity. See Photograph 1 (b). Pause for one or two seconds, and relax suddenly. This is difficult to do correctly. To relax suddenly means to relax with a crash—the breath escapes at once, the arms fall, the knees bend and all this must take place together. With well-opened mouth you say “Ha!” to help make the breath escape quickly.
This very important sudden relaxation may lack snap and precision at first, but after a few days the mind will become trained to its action. After this relaxation take two shorter breaths in the same way then pause before repeating.
The Cleansing Breath
In Condensed Form
Position: Erect, with arms at side.
(a) Exhale (blow out) quickly, saying “ss.” See Photograph 1 (a).
(b) Inhale through nose, lifting arms to front.
(c) Hold breath as in position, Photograph 1 (b).