If indeed “to breathe is to live,” then learning the art of breathing well is essential in coming to know the art of living well. This might be the central message of each of these identically titled works. Both the Himalayan Institute’s publication and Yogi Ramacharaka speak of ancient yogic principles of the art and science of breath, and both describe specific breathing techniques. Both works also attempt to bridge East and West by relating to Western scientific understanding of the process of breathing.

By clearly describing the physiological process of respiration, they both speak of how one can most efficiently and effectively provide oxygen—and thus nourishment—to the whole body and so produce a high degree of health. At the same time both Swami Rama of the Himalayan Institute and Yogi Ramacharaka point out that Prana, the vital energy of the universe, or in the Old Testament terms Ruah, the breath of God that resides in the air we breathe. They also argue that breathing correctly helps incorporate more of that life force into one’s being, integrating one’s spirit with one’s mind and body.

They both speak of how the breath is the link between the body and the mind and how in learning to control the breath one begins to calm the nerves and quiet the mind. Both works are rather clear and concise, containing much—within a short space—in the way of techniques and practical knowledge as well as the theory of pranayama, the science of breath. However, Yogi Ramacharaka’s version, which was published at the turn of the century when perhaps Indian thought was first enthusiastically introduced to the West, often has the feel of selling something; it often also has an “esoteric” tone. Yet, if one can get beyond these elements, there is much of value in this little work. The contemporary Himalayan Institute publication on the other hand is sound and professional. It is careful to encourage caution where appropriate—as in the practice of breath retention—and is written by three men eminently qualified to speak of the art of breathing from both Eastern and Western perspectives.