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About Google Book Search Google's mission is to organize the world's information and to make it universally accessible and useful. Google Book Search helps readers discover the world's books while helping authors and publishers reach new audiences. You can search through the full text of this book on the web at |http: //books .google .com/I if^^ ^a^\i^ ^^VX^'^^* ^w^^ Plain^ The best, and only the best methoA^v!^' ^^^^^x^'^'^ *'^ ...:..l-.. -^^ and to the point .T^H ^S i e> -^*' i The Four Brains of Man Man has four brains, and not merely one as is commonly believed to be the ease. Man's four brains, each having its separate char- acteristics and distinctive offices and func- tions, are as follows: (1) the Cerebrum; (2) the Cerebellum; (3) the Medulla Oblong- ata; and (4) the Solar Plexus, or Abdominal Brain. The structure, and the respective offices and functions of each of these four brains of Man, are as follows: (1) The Cerebrum. The Cerebrum is the higher and front portion of "the brains*' lo- cated in the cranium or skull. It consists of two symmetrical halves, which are connected by a broad band of white substance. Each hemisphere is composed of a centre of white substance, surrounded by a gray border, fol- lowing the convolutions which constitute its external form. The offices and functions of the Cerebrum are as foUow^s: (1) the anterior portions of the cerebral hemispheres are the chief centres of voluntary motion, and of the J 2 SOLAR PLEXUS active outward manifestations of Intelli- gence: (2) the individual convolutions con- stitute separate and distinct centres; and in certain groups of convolutions are localized the centres for various physical movements, i.e., the motions of the eyelids, face, mouth, tongue, ear, neck, hand, foot, etc. The CerebeUum. The Cerebellupi is the hinder and lower part of "the brains" located in the cranium of skull ; it is situated beneath the posterior lobes of the Cerebrum, and is about one-seventh the size of the latter. It is composed of white matter in the interior, and of gray matter on the surface. It is divided into two hemispheres, separated on the upper surface by an anatomical process, and on the lower surface by a deep fissure corresponding in form to the Medulla Oblong- ata. The white centre of the Cerebellum takes on the form of a miniature tree, with trunk, branches, twigs, and leaves — ^this is known as the "arbor vitae." The offices and functions of the Cerebellum are as follows: (1) it is concerned with the powers of motion in various ways and forms, in various de- grees ; and (2) it is held by some authorities to perform certain important offices in con- nection with the physical phase of the sexual •*"nctions and organism. THE FOUR BRAINS OF MAN 3 The Medulla Oblongata. The Medulla Oblongata is the upper and enlarged end of the spinal cord — ^the extension and prolonga- tion of the latter into the cranium or skull. Its substance resembles that of the spinal cord in its structure of gray and white matter; but it possesses a peculiar and different arrange- ment of the strands of the cord before it enters into and forms a connection with the brain. In the substance of the Medulla Oblong- ata are situated the great ganglionic centres which control respiration, deglutition, vomit- ing, etc. Pressure of the Medulla Oblongata, and not simple strangulation, is held to be the actual cause of death in the process of judicial hanging. From the interior portion of the Medulla Oblongata, and the under surface of the Cerebrum, arise the Cranial Nerves, which emerge from the craninal cavity through openings in the base of the skull; these are distributed to various parts of the head'and neck; to the organs of special sense; and to some of the thoracic and abdominal or- gans. In the posterior and lowermost portion of the substance of the Medulla Oblongata, are located the original sources of certain nerves which indirectly control the organs and functions of respiration. The Solar Plexus, or Abdominal Brain, The 4 SOLAR PLEXUS Solar Plexus, or Abdominal Brain, the func- tions and offices, the powers and activities, of which constitute the chief subject matter of this book, is, as the name indicated, situated in the abdomen. Some of its filaments, how- ever, accompany the branches of the aorta (the great artery) which are distributed to the stomach, intestines, spleen, pancreas, liver, and certain other organs, but not to the lungs. It is situated in the upper part of the abdomen, behind the stomach, in front of the aorta or great artery, and in front of the pillars of the diaphragm. Its place is popularly known as **the pit of the stomach," or back of the point where the ribs begin to separate and spread to each side. The Solar Plexus is the great plexus, i.e., network of nerve-fibres, mass of nerve-sub- stance, etc, of the great Sympathetic Nervous ^rstem. It is composed of both gray and white nervous substance, or brain-matter, similar to that of the other three brains of Man. It receives and distributes nerve- impulses and currents to all of the abdominal organs, and supplies the main organs of nutri- tion, assimilation, etc, with tiheir nervous energy. It performs most important offices in the so-called 'Vegetative life'* of the body, supplying the nerve-energy which is required THE FOUR BRAINS OF MAN 5 for the processes of nutrition, assimilation, growth, etc. In fact, it is the great power- house of physical life-energy. The bodily functions cannot be performed without it; when it is injured the entire physical well- being is at once seriously affected; and when it receives a severe shock, death often ensues, a fact which the history of prize-fighting amply illustrates. Its name, "solar,^' was bestowed upon it by reason of (1) its central position; (2) the fact that its filaments extend in all directions to the important abdominal organs, like the rays of the Sim; and (3) the fact that it is recog- nized as being the power-house, and great reservoir of "life f orce,'^ just as the sun is the great power-house and reservoir of material energy of our solar system. The Sympathetic Nervous System, over which it presides, is that great division of the nervous system which regulates and energizes the important functions of the organs upon which physical life depends, and by which it is sustained. Bichet terms this division of the nervous system, "the nervous system of or- ganic life," because, as he pointed out, "it seems to regulate — almost or quite iride^QxssL- ently of the will— the Avxe ^^^l^x-ecsaxv^^ ^^^^j^ 6 SOLAR PLEXUS functions of the organs of respiration, circu- lation, and digestion." Bailey says: "Functionally, the Sympa- thetic System is quite distinct from the Cere- bro-Spinal System, It Jias been called the system of vegetative existence, because of its presiding over the processes of nutrition and growth, the so-called Vegetative functions,' in contra-distinction to the Cerebro-Spinal System, which presides over such distinctly animal faculties as sensation, motion, and in- tellect. The Sympathetic System controls the so-called automatic mechanisms of the body, the rhythmical beating of the heart, contrac- tion and dilation of the arteries, the peristaltic action of the gastro-intenstinal tract, the con- traction of smooth muscle wherever found, ^ and the control of the secretions of various glands, etc." So, it may be seen, the Solar Plexus presides over a very important region of physical life. The Solar Plexus both receives and trans- mits nerve impulses, just as do the better- known brains of Man. Its distributed fila- ments contain both afferent (inward conduc- tion) and efferent (outward conducting) nerve-fibres, just as is the case with the other three brains. Its ganglia (series of knotted nervous substance) are true nerve-centers, THE FOUR BRAINS OF MAN 7 and from them emerge and pass the filaments of nerve-force distribution to the involuntary muscles of the organs under its control, and to the secreting-cells of the various glands, etc., which depend upon it for their nerve supply. Dr. Byron Robinson, who first applied the term "The Abdominal^ Brain" to the Solar Plexus, says of it that: "By the use of this term, I mean to convey the idea that it is en- dowed with the high powers and phenomena of a great nervous centre; that it can organ- ize, multiply, and diminish forces.'^ It is easily seen why an injury to the Solar Plexus seriously disturbs the life-processes, and why a severe blow so paralyzes the vital organs that death ensues almost immediately. A man may survive a serious injury to any one of his other three brains; but a serious injury to the Solar Plexus, or Abdominal Brain, strikes right to his seat of life — and that life ceases to manifest itself further. If Man may properly say of any portion of his physical being, "Here is the seat of my life; here is where I live!" the Solar Plexus, or Abdominal Brain, surely is that particular part or portion of his physical being. As an additional illustration of the essential part played by the Solar Plexus, o\! ^>;:^^^x?:^i^s^^ Brain, in the proces^e^ ol ^V^^^st^^^^^ ™ ^"^^ 8 SOLAR PLEXUS have the well-known fact that it is found fully formed and perfect, and even then perform- ing some important functioning, in the human embryo or foetus at a very early stage — at a stage in which the "skull brain'^ of the devel- oping unborn creature is a merely pulpy mass. of substance, incapable of performing any function whatsoever. Moreover, in those cases of the birth of abnormal infants — babies born without a "skull brain^^ or perfected spinal cord — ^the Solar Plexus, or Abdominal Brain, has been found to be perfectly developed, and to perform its full functions ; and under such circumstances the child has lived for months before delivery, and in some cases for some time afterward. So much for the offices and functions which orthodox physiologists freely ascribe to the Solar Plexus, or Abdominal Brain. Other careful investigators take up the inquiry at this point, but carry the story much further. Not alone modern scientific investigators ; but also many very ancient investigators, such as the oriental occultists and sages, who many centuries ago recognized certain subtle func- tions and offices of this wonderful "fourth brain" of Man, and taught their students many valuable methods of effectively employ- ing its finer forces and hiddent energies. In THE FOUR BRAINS OF MAN 9 this book, we shall try to convey to you the essence and fundamental substance of these higher teachings concerning the Solar Plexus, or Abdominal Brain— the Fourth Brain of n The Emotional Centre One of the great facts concerning the Solar Plexus, or Abdominal Brairl, which fact is not as yet generally recognized by modern psychology and physiology, but which has been known for centuries by the occultists, and which is now becoming recognized by the advanced minds of modern science, is this im- portant fact, i.e., that the Solar Plexus is the seat of the emotional nature of Man. In short, that the part popularly held to be played by "the heart,'^ is in reality performed by the Solar Plexus, or Abdominal Brain, the great centre of the Sympathetic Nervous System. That there is an important relation between the emotional states and the physical organ- ism, everyone knows. We know that fear, dread, and suspense are accompanied by a sinking or even a "sick" feeling at the pit of the stomach. We know that the heart beats rapidly when we are excited, angry, or in love. We know, particularly of later years, that emotional states react upon the physical or- THE EMOTIONAL CENTRE 1 1 gans, working physiological changes in them, .and often exercising a decided influence upon the health or lack of health in the organs affected. You have had presented to your at- tention hundreds of books reaching "the effect of mind upon body." Likewise, we loiow that the condition of certain of the physical organs has much to do with our "state of feeling." We know from experience the state of "blues" and emotional depression caused by the failure of the liver to function properly. We know also the lack of energy, and the feeling of heaviness caused by the constipated condition of the bowels. We know the generally "crabbed" feelings caused by indigestion and dyspepsia. We know the heavy, sluggish feelings caused by breathing the heavy air of an illy ventilated room. We know the nervous, excitable, hys- terical emotional states arising from ab- normal conditions of the sexual organism. Dr. H. A. Parkyn calls our attention to similar effect of body upon mind, in the follow- . ing words : "The moment a man's circulation begins to run down, owing to stinted nutri- tion, we find that the first symptoms appear in the head. The brain failing to receive its ac- customed amount of blood, s\ii>c^^:e^T "^^ "^ 24 SOLAR PLEXUS Solar Plexus, or "feeling and vital-process brain.'^ And advanced modern psychologists are now making the same discovery, though they give to the old occultists no credit, but bestow new names upon the process — the facts remain the same, however. The Cerebrum, or "thinking brain," while largely influenced by the Solar Plexus, or "feeling brain" — ^far more influenced by it than most persons realize, in fact — neverthe- less can and does exert a tremendous influence over the latter, even without the conscious use of the will and attention. When the in- dividual, however, deliberately turns his con- scious attention to the matter, and uses his will in connection with the process, then the Cerebrum, or "thinking brain" exerts a tre- mendously increased power and influence over the Solar Plexus, or "feeling brain." It is able to dominate the latter to a great extent, and the latter may be easily trained to accept its "suggestions," its demands, and its com- mands. In order to exercise this control of the Cerebrum over the Solar Plexus, it is first necessary to arouse the dormant conscious- ness of the Solar Plexus. The Solar Plexus ordinarily exists in an almost "sleeping" state; or, more correctly, in a state similar to that of EMOTIONAL CONTROL 25 the person "walking or talking in his sleep-" Only in case of great danger to the individual — ^in cases of *great need to the whole organ- ism — ^in cases of threatened danger to both nervous systems and both "brains" — does the Solar Plexus "wake up" for the time being and "get busy"*in overcoming the obstacles and averting the danger. The important fact, however, is this : that the Solar Plexus can be awakened under certain circumstances. This being perceived by the ancient occult- ists, they began to devise means whereby they might awaken the Solar Plexus, at will, under certain circumstances. These methods they finally discovered, and adopted; which discov- ery gave them the key to the practical meth- ods of influencing, directing and controlling the activities of the Sympathetic Nervous System, ad also certain other activities with which we shall become acquainted as we proceed. In Chapters V and VI, of this book, we shall give you the details of the methods of Awak- ening the Solar Plexus, and of influencing and directing its activities in general. We defer this explanation and instruction for the pres- ent, because the same is as much related to certain other features of o\rc \x\^\xnm^?osss^ -^^ to that of Emotional Coiv\xo\- "Y^^ ^\.'^\>^^^^ 26 SOLAR PLEXUS which we shall now make concerning Emo- tional Control must be read in the light of the special instructions contained, in chapters to which we have just alluded ; and the directions given below must be employed in connection with the general directions given regarding the processes of "Awakening the Solar Plexus" and "Using the Solar Plexus," as given in the said chapters. Having awakened the Solar Plexus, and having learned how to give to it the desired suggestions, demands and commands, the matter of causing it to control, direct and arouse the emotional feelings becomes quite simple. Here is the instruction. in a nutshell: Having awakened the Solar Plexus, and having learned the art of suggesting ideas to it, proceed as follows : Tell the Solar Plexus, or "feeling brain,*^ just what you wish it to do for you in the matter of arousing or re- pressing emotional feelings. Tell it what emo- toinal feelings you wish it to develop and en- courage, and which you wish it to restrain or repress. Say to it, at the appropriate times: "I wish to feel Happy, or Cheerful; I wish to feel Courageous and Confident, etc.,'' as the case may be. Or, on the other hand, tell it: "I wish you to prevent the feeling of Fear, or of Depression, or of Excitement, or of Anger, EMOTIONAL CONTROL 27 etc/' as the case may be. You will find it a willing helper, and a helpful friend, once you have awakened it properly, and satisfied it of your real relationship to it IV Vitality and Health That the Solar Plexus, or Abdominal Brain, should be able to exercise an important influ- ence and power over the Health and Vitality of .the individual is perceived immediately when we realize its relation to the organs performing the important functions of life. The Solar Plexus, as you have seen, is the great central storehouse of nervous energy, or "life f orce,;.^ of the physical body. It sends to this organ, and to that gland, the supply of nervous energy and vital force which is neces- sary to animate and energize those parts of the body, and the other parts adjacent thereto. To understand the importance of this ner- vous energy or vital force which is controlled and dispensed by the Solar Plexus, it is nec- essary only to consider the activities per- formed by means of its power. For in- stance, we find that the processes of diges- tion, assimilation, nutrition and elimination are possible only when the supply of vital VITALITY AND HEALTH 29 force is sufficient. Likewise, we find that the processes of the circulation of the blood are dependent upon the supply of the vital force. As a writer has said : "Our food is digested and transformed into the nourishing sub- stances of the blood ; then carried through the arteries to all parts of the body, where it is absorbed by the cells and used to replace the worn-out material, the latter then being car- ried back through the veins to the lungs, where the waste-matter is bumed-up, and the balance again sent on its journey through the arteries re-charged with the life-giving oxygen." All of these processes are performed by the power of the life force which is sent to the organs by the Solar Plexus, and which serves to energize and to animate them; and by means of which the organs are enabled to perform their functions. Moreover, the Solar Plexus not only sends the vital force to these important physical organs, but it also exercises a control over them in a way so closely resembling a mental control that many writers have spoken of the presence of "something like intelligence" be- ing manifested in the performance and direc- tion of the vital processes. This "something like intelligence" has been ex^la\xv^^1 ^^^^^T'S.^.ST^ powers that co^. w^^^^^^^^^^ functions and ot>^V \^ C^V^^'^^^- 32 SOLAR PLEXUS Not only do these "unconscious mental forces" direct the activities of the organs of the physical body, but they also perform im- portant healing work in case of disease and wounds, acting just as would a force that was "something like intelligence." This healing power inherent in the organism has been called "the healing power of nature," the "vis vita," the "vis medicatrix naturae," or "na- ture's efforts," etc. Its presence has been rec- ognized by all great physicians and medical teachers. Here are a few testimonies to its presence and power: Dr. Patton says: "By the term ^efforts of nature' we mean a certain curative or restora- tive principle, or *vis vita,' implanted in every living or organized body, constantly opera- tive for its repair, preservation and health. This instinctive endeavor to repair the human , organism is signally shown in the event of a severed or lost part, as a finger for instance ; for nature, unaided, will repair and fashion a stump equal to one from the hands of an emi- nent surgeon. Nature, unaided, may be equally potent in ordinary illness. Many in- dividuals, even when severely ill, either from motives of economy, prejudice, or skepticism, remain at rest in bed, under favorable hy- VITALITY AND HEALTH • 33 giene, regimen, etc., and speedily get well without a physician or medicine." Dr. Schofield says: "The Vis medicatrix naturae* is a very potent factor in the ameliori- ation of disease, if it only be allowed fair play. An exercise of faith, as a rule, suspends the operation of adverse influences, and appeals strongly to the inner and underlying faculty of vital force (i.e., the unconscious mind)/* Dr. Bruce says: "We are compelled to ac- knowledge a power of natural recovery in- herent in the body — a similar statement has been made by writers on the principle of medi- cine in all ages. The body possesses a means and mechanism for modifying or neutralizing influences which it cannot directly overcome. A natural power of the prevention and repair of disorders and disease has a real and as active an existence within us, as have the or- dinary functions of the organs themselves.*' Hippocrates said : "Nature is the physician of diseases.** Dr. Holmes says : "Whatever other theories we hold, we must recognize the *vis medicatrix naturae* in some shape or other.** Thus, you see, that great regulative, direc- tive, and therapeutic activities of "Nature,** which are manifested in the human physical body, are seen to be mental or quasi-mental ix^ their essential nature--m\xv$^ ol ^wxv^ $y.^^^^^ 34 SOLAR PLEXUS is perceived to be at work there. The life- processes are seen to be mind-processes. There is no life-activity without mind activity — the two are inextricably combined and cor- related. This fact is thoroughly recognized by the practitioners and students of "mental heahng/* "suggestive therapy," etc., and their efforts are accordingly directed to "reach the mind" of the individual, in order to "set the mind to work" in the direction of restoration of normal healthy functioning and activity. But what "mind" should be reached for this purpose? In what brain does that "mind'' function and have its seat? Not in the or- dinary "thinking mind," to be sure — ^for the vital processes are not under the control of that mind and its brains, though its thoughts and beliefs reflect upon the mind which really is concerned, as we know. No; the only logical conclusion is that the vital processes and physical organs are imder the direction and control of that "mind" which may be called the "instinctive mind" (because it is possessed by the lower animals as well as by man) — ^which mind has control of the instinctive activities of the physical body, such as we have mentioned. And as every "mind" must have a brain through which to function and manifest itself, we hat- VITALITY AND HEALTH 35 urally look for the brain or brains of this "in- stinctive mind." Where? Nowhere else than in that great centre of physical life and or- ganic control — ^the Solar Plexus, or Abdominal Brain. The answer is so obvious that no one can miss it. The importance of the above discovery lies in the fact .that just as the "brain-minds" of all living things can be aroused and appealed ^to, so can the "brain-mind" of the Solar Plexus, or Abdominal Brain, be aroused and appealed to. if one proceeds properly. The "brain-mind" of the Solar Plexus, once aroused, become amenable and subject to ap- peals, demands, commands, suggestions, etc., properly made to it. Here, then, we have a direct and immediate method of "mental treatment" — a method which really includes the active principle of all of the other methods. A method so simple, so direct, and so effective, that anyone may apply it, and any organ may be reached without physical methods. In the following chapters on "Awakening the Solar Plexus" and "Using the Solar Plexus," you will be given further and more detailed par- ticulars concerning methods of this kind. But, first of all, you must thoroughly grasp the fundamental principle involved, i.e., (X\ that the physical organs awd ^Q)C\N'^^.^^ ^^"^ ^"^^ 36 SOLAR PLEXUS trolled by the "instinctive mind^^ ; (2) that the "instinctive mind" has its seat in the Solar Plexus, or Abdominal Brain; and (3) that the "instinctive mind" may be reached and ap- pealed to, when the Solar Plexus — ^its "brains'^ — ^is aroused and awakened into a state of con- scious attention. This is the whole matter in a nutshell — the rest is merely finding effective methods of manifesting the principle, Awakening the Solar Plexus In a preceding chapter of this book, you have seen that the "mind^^ of the Solar Plexus, or Abdominal Brain — that "instinctive mind'^ which is to the latter what the "thinking mind" is to the Cerebrum— exists in what may be called a state of semi-sleep, or perhaps more correctly, in a state of semi-conscious- ness closely resembling that of the sleep- walker who int;elligently performs tasks with- out being fully conscious thereof. In cases of great need, or of threatened danger to the organism, the "instinctive mind" of the Solar Plexus does wake up ; and in such cases mani- fests a far greater degree of consciousness than normally expressed by it. From the above, however, it must not be understood that the "instinctive mind" of the Solar Plexus is ever "asleep" in the sense of not being able to attend to its offices and direc- tive functions. On the contrary, its state of semi-sleep, or semi-congcio^^^^^^^ really arises by reason of its clo^r^ ^Q^icentration upon its 38 SOLAR PLEXUS • special tasks just referred to. Its condition of consciousness is very similar to that of the workman, student, or inventor who has so closely concentrated upon the work at hand that he has become practically unconscious of the things of the outside world. You, yourself, have often manifested a similar state when you were reading an interesting book, when you were "buried in your newspaper/' or when you were engrossed in the performance of some task to which you have devoted your entire and undivided attention — to which you have given your "whole mind" for the time being. The "instinctive mind" of the Solar Plexus is not asleep or semi-conscious in the sense of "being asleep at the switch," as the current phrase expresses the idea. On the contrary it is "on the job" to such an extent that it is practically "dead to all the world" other than that "job." It is a most faithful and tireless worker, never sleeping (in the usual sense of the term), and always concerned with the great work under its direction and charge. Were it to "go to sleep," actually— were it to take a rest, or "go on a strike" — the vital proc- esses would cease, and death would speedily result. But, for all that, so far as the outside world is concerned, it may be considered as AWAKENING THE SOLAR PLEXUS 39 "asleep/* or at least wrapped in revery to such an extent that it must be "awakened" in or- der to obtain its attention fully. Passing over the academic terms and tech- nicalities of the psychologists — and also the strange occult terms and theories of the an- cient sages who taught along these lines- let us get right down to the practical, every- day description of the methods employed to "Awaken the Solar Plexus." In the first place, you must proceed just as you would in the case of a man who was so wrapped up in his work, so much engrossed with his task, that his whole attention was given there ; and who, consequently, was practically unconscious of your presence and your desire to communicate with him. How would you proceed in such a case, and with such a person? Well, in the first place, you would probably endeavor to attract his attention by means of tapping his shoulder insistently, until he "woke up"; then, after he had "come out of his trance" (again employing the popular, humorous terminol- ogy), you would address him earnestly and forcefully. Well then, this is precisely the method followed in "Awakening the Solar Plexus." But, you say, we cannot "tap the shoulder" of the Solar Plexus. B\x\,, ^^ ^xs.^^^^,^^ ^'^^ 40 SOLAR PLEXUS do this figuratively — ^we can substitute a phy- sical method which proceeds along the same lines, and which will produce a similar result. Here is the method : (1) Take a few deep, regular breaths; and then finally, after you have established a reg- ular breathing rhythm, hold the inhaled breath instead of exhaling it — but only for a few moments, just enough to interrupt the established rhythm, and, (2) At the moment when, according to the established rhythm, the breath should be ex- haled, you must, instead (while holding the breath), employ your abdominal muscles so that you will (a) press downward and out- ward upon the "pit of the stomach*'; and then (b) while exhaling the breath, draw in the same muscles so as to reverse the preceding motion. This outward and inward motion (accompanied by the breathing) to be per- formed three times. Then breathe normally for a few minutes, resting yourself. The whole process will have occupied but a few seconds of time. Then repeat the process, several times; but use moderation and do not tire yourself. This process, for certain reasons, serves to arouse the attention of the "instinc- tive mind" in the Solar Plexus — just as "the tap on the shoulder" arouses the man wrapped AWAKENING THE SOLAR PLEXUS . 41 in concentrated thought, reverie, or medita- tion. (3) While performing the above breathing- method — the "tap on the shoulder'^ — ^you must also give the "instinctive mind" the equivalent of the verbal command to "Wake up, old fel- low/^ or "Come out of it !" which would have been used in the case of the meditative friend who was wrapped in thought when you wished to get his attention. This you may do by con- centrating your Directive Thought on the "pit of the stomach," and sending the mental mes- sage: "Wake up, Solar Plexus; Give me your attention !" You will probably find that you can send a more forceful mental message by actually forming the words with your lips and tongue, just as if you were softly whispering them. In addressing the "instinctive mind," proceed just as you would if the Solar Plexus were a separate and distinct entity — an individual being with mind. The more nearly you can carry out this idea of addressing the Solar Plexus as if it were an individual, the more effective will your demands, commands, and suggestions become. Never mind the technical reason for this fact : don't bother about theo- ries, but stick fast to the actual and ^\!^.x^ xssj^^^-^^^^ 44 SOLAR PLEXUS of disapproval which you may send me ; and in short will treat you properly, according to Nature^s requirements and laws. "On the other hand, I want you to pay at- tention to* my properly-worded requests for improved service by any of the organs which are reporting trouble to me here above deck — I want you to get busy and get such organs in better condition, so that they may render better service. I also want you to help me to restrain and restrict undesirable emotions — you can do this by regulating the physical ex- pression and excitement connected with emo- tional feeling; and I want you to aid me in having and expressing helpful and beneficial emotional feeling. I also want you to help me in other ways of which I shall tell you later. Now then. Solar Plexus, let us pull together, so as to attain better results for both of us. Let us have confidence in each other — ^let us trust one another — ^let us get busy and strive for better results for both of us, and for the entire organism." In the succeieding chapter, this subject is explained in a little further detail. VI Using the Solar Plexus In the preceding chapter of this book, we left you at the place in which you had estab- lished harmonious relations with the "instinc- tive mind" of your Solar Plexus. Before pro- ceeding further, we wish to impress upon you that this idea of "talking to the Solar Plexus" is not a mere fanciful notion, or mere illus- trative presentation. It is a popularly ex- pressed fact, based upon sound scientific psy- chological method. Its ordinary scientific name is "auto-suggestion"; but it goes far further than ordinary auto-suggestion, for it really establishes an actual connection be- tween two "minds" — between two "brains" — though these two "minds" and two "brains" happen to belong to the same individual. Never mind the technical theories, or aca- demic terms — get busy with the practical methods, so as to get the actual results. Now then, having become acquainted with your Solar Plexus, and it with you--l\ajdx^.qL established mutual Yvaxmwv^ , ^wSn^^ss^^^ ^^^ 46 SOLAR PLEXUS co-ordinated effort — ^you may proceed to give the Solar Plexus more definite and specific directions and suggestions. In doing this, however, always try to keep in mind the idea that you are really talking to another individ- ual entity; and, accordingly, proceed to ex- plain matters, and to point out means and ways of action, just as you would in case of actual conversation with another individual. The following general suggestions and direc- tions should prove interesting and instructive to you. Emotional ControL The Solar Plexus may be called upon to aid you in either arousing or repressing emotional feelings. By exerting a control upon the physical organs concerned with the expression and manifestation of emo- tional feeling — by controlling the glands, se- cretions, reflexes, etc. — ^it is able either to "shut off" the current of a rising emotional feeling, or else to "turn on" an additional cur- rent of a rising emotional feeling. By ex- plaining to the Solar Plexus^ "instinctive mind," the reasons why certain emotional states of feeling are desirable or undesirable, advantageous or disadvantageous, it will will- ingly co-operate with you in repressing and restricting, or else in stimulating and encour- aging, any emotional state to which you call USING THE SOLAR PLEXUS 47 its attention. - Explain the whole matter to it — ^as one good friend or "partner" to, another — and ask it to co-operate with you; it will gladly do so, once it understands the reason and just what is required of it. You will find this co-operation very valu- able in cases in which you wish to stimulate and increase the feeling of Courage, and to repress and restrain that of Fear. Likewise when you wish to restrain and restrict the feeling of Gloom, Depression, and Discourage- ment, and to increase that of Confidence, En- couragement, and thus acquire the general "Bright, Cheerful and Happy" feeling. It will aid you in inhibiting the rise of Anger — a tremendous achievement, for Anger and Fear are the two great harmful emotional feelings, the first destroying by burning-up, and the second destroying by f reezing-up. Here is the thing in a nut-shell: Tell the Solar Plexus the whole story; what you wish to accomplish with its help ; why you wish to accomplish this ; and just what you wish it to do for you in the matter. Treat and address it as a friend, a brother, a partner with you in the enterprise of life; you will find it a won- derful source of aid, encouragement and prac- tical help and efficient service. Health Control. T\ve ^^\^x ^\^^^^^ ^-^^^^ 48 SOLAR PLEXUS called upon to aid you in either stimulating the action of any physical organ which may have fallen into a habit of inactivity (probably because of ill-usage or lack of proper treat- ment on your part) ; or in restoring normal and healthy functioning in any physical organ which may have become affected from any reason. At the beginning, the "instinctive mind" of the Solar Plexus fights against dis- eased conditions, or inactive functioning: but, in many cases, finding that it is not receiving the^ proper co-operation on the part of the "thinking mind" of the individual, it then "makes the best of it," and tries to do the best it can in the matter, under the circumstances. When it finds you ready and willing to co- operate with it in the matter of perfect or- ganic functioning, and improved physical con- dition, it will respond willingjjy and even eagerly. In such cases, however, it should have its attention positively and clearly di- rected to the imperfectly functioning organ, and to the nature of its shortcomings — ^to- gether with an understanding of the unde- sirable effects to you arising from the same. In giving to the "instinctive mind" of the Solar Plexus the proper information, instruc- tions, and directions in the matter of restoring physical health and proper functioning of the 50 SOLAR PLEXUS source. You are the officer on deck talking^ as to an equal, to the chief engineer below decks in the engine room, the boiler room, and the furnace rooms. Get this idea well fixed in your mind, and you will know how to proceed cor- rectly in the matter. Furthermore, you must remember that you have promised to do your part in the work of establishing and maintaining the normal physical conditions — ^you have promised your full co-operation in the matter, and must live up to this promise and agreement. If you expect the Solar Plexus to do its share of the work, you must be prepared to do yours. You cannot expect to "lie down" on your end of the job, and to have the Solar Plexus "keep busy*' on its end. If it finds you falling short, it will be apt to do the same. You must "play fair" with your partner in your work of Health and Strength. You must see that the Solar Plexus is not burdened with the work of taking care of food of a wrong character, indigestible masses, too much in quantity, and improperly combined. You must see that the body gets sufficient exercise, sufficient rest, sufficient fresh air, sufficient water, sufficient food of the right kind, and that it is kept sufficiently cleaned. , If you insist upon sending down to it the mass USING THE SOLAR PLEXUS 51 of indigestible stuff so commonly employed as food, greasy, over-sweet, soggy, ill-cooked stuff — ^you must not be surprised if the Solar Plexus retaliates by first "firing it back" to you; and then, if you persist, of "going on a protest strike" and rendering you inefficient service. You must "play fair" with the Solar Plexus. It is good-natured, but is no fool; and it has a high sense of justice and co-operation, and resents any attempt to "put anything over" on it, as many have found to their sor- row and pain. Get on good terms with your Solar Plexus — and play fair with it, if you are wise. Vital Force and Physical Energy. The Solar Plexus is the source of Vital Force and Phy- sical Energy — the great storehouse thereof, as well as its generator. You may call upon it for an increased supply thereof, and when it becomes convinced of the actual necessity therefor, it will respond. What is "Vital Force" and "Physical Energy"? You know very well what it is like when you feel it mani- festing within yourself, and expressing itself in your actions. You know very well what it is like when you see it manifested by another individual, and being expressed in his actions. But find it hard to define it, or to exi3lam.vt,\s^. intelligent words. 52 ' SOLAR PLElXUS You may think of it here as "the Steam of Life" — the Power which causes the physical machinery to move and the wheels go 'round. It is what we mean when we say "vim," "vigor," "virility," "pep," "snap," and the like. It is Nature's great vitalizing force, power, and energy, which when manifested in phy- sical action we call "Life." Or, again, we may call it "Spirit," in the sense of "energy,^' "vivacity," "ardor," "enthusiasm," "courage," "animation," "vigor," etc., — that which when possesses it causes him to be termed "spir- ited," and which when he lacks it causes him to be termed "spiritless." Huxley says : "We use the terms 'vitality,' and Vital force' to de- note great groups of natural operations, just as we employ the names of 'electricity' or 'electrical force' to denote others." At the last. Vital Force and Physical Energy must be thought of as "Active Life-Power." The Solar Plexus, through its "instinctive mind" may be called upon by you for an abundant supply of Vital Force or Physical Energy — and it will respond quite as well as in the cases previously mentioned. Tell it what you want, and why you want it — and it will begin to "get busy" to supply you with it. Co- operate with it by maintaining the vigorous, vital mental attitude— by seeing and thinking USING THE SOLAR PLEXUS 53 of yourself as filled with Vital Force — by con- fidently expecting the flow thereof into your nervous system from the Solar Plexus, and, in short by being a "positive pole," instead of a "negative pole" in the scale of mental life. Psychic Force. There is another phase of power inherent in the Solar Plexus,, which we shall merely mention here, for it concerns a subject apart from that which constitutes the purpose of this book— yet we would fall short of that purpose were we to omit all reference to this additional power. This additional phase of power is that which, for want of a better name, may be called "Psychic Power." By "Psychic Power" is meant that peculiar force, power, or energy which when mani- fested by human beings is called "Odic Force," "Human Magnetism," "Vril," "Prana," "Ga- Lama," etc. It is the force which underlies the manifestations known as "Personal Magnet- ism," "Thought Force," "Mind Power," "Tele- pathy," "Thought Transference," etc., etc., — in fact, all forms of manifestations in which the Directive Thought of man seems to take upon itself a physical form, and to act with a fine physical energy, when it flows from one mind or brain to others. Its vibrations consti- tute the "body" of the "mental curx^^xsi.^"^ ''thought waves," etc., w\vWe o^Jcv^"^ ^V>^^^ ^^^5^^^^^ 54 SOLAR PLEXUS ties constitute the energy thereof; the Direc- tive Thought involved in the "currents," etc., may be said to be the "soul" thereof. While we do not care to go deeply into the subject here, we feel free to say that this Psychic Power may be obtained from the Solar Plexus in precisely the same way in which one obtains Vital Force or Physical Energy from it— or as one causes it to act in the direction of the control of the emotional feelings, or in the restoration and preserva- tion of physical health and normal functioning of the physical organs. The general principle of Awakening the Solar Plexus, and of then inducing it to send forth its latent and inher- ent powers, forces, and energies in the direc- iton indicated by you, is the same in all of the cases. Understand the principle, and acquire the "knack" of setting the subtle forces into operation, and you have the whole principle at your command. You are herewith warned, however, that the use of Psychic Power for improper and base motives, i.e., for instance, of psychically influencing others against their own interests and welfare, in order to gain an unworthy ad- vantage over them, will bring about its own punishment; for by so doing you set into oper- ation certain psychic forces, of a similar na- USING THE SOLAR PLEXUS 55 ture, which will prove your undoing and which will show you that you have "sown a wind, and reaped a whirlwind." For legiti- mate purposes, however, the Psychic Forces may be employed quite as freely and safely as the Physical Forces. Both are made for Use — not for Abuse. An understanding of the na- ture, source and character of this Psychic Power as herein stated, will serve to make clear to you many heretofore puzzling in- stances and phases of Psychic Phenomena. vn Solar Plexus Breathing-Exercises The following Breathing Exercises will be found useful by you in your work of arousing the forces of the Solar Plexus, and of applying the energies thereof. There is a peculiar rela- tion between the process of breathing and those of the Solar Plexus. The nature of this relation is far too technical to discuss in de- tail in this book; and, furthermore, the knowl- edge of the physiological-psychological nature of the principle involved is not essentially necessary for the effective practical applica- tion thereof in simple exercises or methods of application. Learn how to apply the prac- tical methods, and let the matter of the tech- nical scientific principles rest until you have time to "go deeply^' into such subjects. Here follow the practical, simple exercises re- ferred to. Abdominal Breathing Stimulation The Solar Plexus may be stimulated by an occasional exercise along the line of Abdom- SOLAR PLEXUS BREATHING-EXERCISES 5,7 inal Breathing is performed as follows: Inhale, the breath in the ordinary manner, but in- stead of allowing it to rest in the upper part of the lungs, you should use the breathing- muscles so as to gently press the air down- ward toward the abdomen, so as to flatten out the diapraghm, i.e., that strong, flat plate- shaped muscle which divides the chest and its contents from the abdomen and its contents from the abdomen and its contents. This form of breathing is commonly known as "stomach breathing," or "breathing from the stomach.'' In this form of breathing, the abdomen is pressed outward in front, and at the sides; and the lower part of the lungs are filled with the air, instead of the latter being allowed to merely remain in the upper part of the lungs. It is difficult to closely describe the move- ments of this form of breathing, but you will gradually acquire them by following this gen- eral idea, i.e., (1) Breathe deeply, and (2) at the same time "bear down'' gently in the region of the pit of the stomach, thus dis- tending the abdomen in front and at the sides. Practice this form of breathing, occasion- ally, and not continuing the exercise over a few minutes. Never strain unduly^ andx\<^M<5LXL^ tire out yourself. \3s>e mo^e>c^NK^^ '^^^ "^^^ 58 SOLAR PLEXUS judgment. The physical exercise should be accompanied by Directive Thought, i.e., thought directed to the Solar Plexus with the idea .of arousing, and stimulating its activity — ^in short, giving the Solar Plexus a "mental massage,^^ as it were. You may accompany this by a little "talk" to the "instinctive mind" of the Solar Plexus — such talk being "always in order," and always tending to work welL The Invigorating Breath The following exercise, accompanied by Directive Thought applied to the Solar Plexus, has been employed with excellent re- sults in the direction of invigrating the whole system in a certain indescribable manner which must be experienced in order to be ap- preciated. It produces a stimulating reaction and invigoration, akin to that one experi- ences after a cold plunge followed with a good rubbing-down with a coarse towel. (1) Inhale a full breath, through the nos- trils. (2) Pucker up the lips as S you were going to use them in blowing a comet or other brass wind-instrument — do not distend the cheeks, however, as in the case of the use of the instrument, (3) Exhale the breath, through the puckered lips, with a strong "blowing" motion and action just as if you f^ SOLAR PLEXUS BREATHING-EXERCISES 59 ^ere trying to get a good, strong, clear note it a horn. Repeat several times; but do not ►ver-exert or strain yourself, nor tire out rourself. The Stimulating Breath The following exercise has also been found ^uite stimulating, and many have discovered %^at it has improved the richness of the sound of their voices, and has given a new "tone'' to their speaking and singing voice. It should be accompanied by Directive Thought applied to the Solar Plexus, as before de- scribed. (1) Inhale a full breath, through the nos- trils. (2) Open the mouth wide. (3) Then exhale the breath, "puffing'' the air out of the mouth in one great "puff," like a locomotive, putting some life and vigor into the move- ment, though not straining yourself. Repeat several times; but do not tire yourself, nor employ the exercise too violently. The "Nerve Force" Breath The following breathing exercise is highly recommended by those who have had many years' experience with it. It is reported to have a decided value in the direction of e^pv- gizing and stimulatiivg^ \}cv^ \xk^^^\.^52^ ^ 60 SOLAR PLEXUS centres. Some call it the "nerve-bracing breath/' because it "braces up'' the person practicing it. It should be accompanied by the Directive Thought applied to the Solar Plexus, previously mentioned. (1) Inhale a full breath, through the nos- trils. (2) Retain the breath during the re- mainder of the exercise, until you are di- rected to exhale it. (3) Extend the arms di- rectly in front of you. (4) Contract the muscles of the arms, and clench the fists; then draw the fists slowly back until they strike the shoulders, keeping the muscles tensed during the process. (5) Keeping the muscles still tensed, push the fists outward, and then draw them backward, several times, rather rapidly. (6) Exhale vigorously through the mouth. Repeat several times, avoiding over-exertion strain, or fatigue. The exercise should be performed with "snap" and energy. The Quieting Breath The following breathing exercise is highly praised by those who have had long expe- rience with it. It is said to quiet the nerves when they have been under a strain, to re- duce to normal the heart's action; to produce a feeling of calm, tranquility, and restf ulness. SOLAR PLEXUS BREATHINaEXERCISES 61 It should be accompanied by the Directive Breath applied to the Solar Plexus, pre- viously mentioned. (1) Inhale a full breath, through the nos- trils. (2) Bend slightly forward and exhale vigorously through the front part of your closed teeth — ^this, if properly performed, will produce a "hissing sound" like escaping steam. (3) Then, inhale once more through the nostrils. (4) Exhale vigorously, through the opened mouth, at the same time sounding (as if whispering) the word "Hah!*' Con- clude with ordinary, natural breaths, inhaled and exhaled in the ordinary manner. The exercise may then be repeated, varying the "Hah'' exhalation by each time, successively, sounding one of the following words (as if whispering) in the same way, viz., "Hee!'* "Ho !'' "Har !'' "How r "Hoc !'' "Far !" "Fear!'' "Four!" Do not tire yourself, however, and stop whenever you feel like it, regardless of whether or not you have run through the whole list of whispered sounds. The Grand Psychic Breath The following breathing exercise, very popular in Oriental countries in which much attention is given to breathing methods, is known as "The Graivd ^^-jq^v^^^^-^^'^ '"^^^ 62 SOLAR PLEXUS Great Yogi Breath/' or some similar name. The details of the exercise is variously stated by different Oriental writers, but the follow- ing form includes all of the important ele- ments and movements, and is less technical than some other forms. In this exercise, the various parts of the body, as you will see as you proceed. Its effect has been stated as "a general psychic house-cleaning of the nervous system." (1) Lie at ease, in a relaxed position. (2) Breathe tranquilly, easily, and rhythmically for a few moments, until the breath rhythm is secured and becomes regular. (3) Then, inhaling and exhaling, create the thought of the breath-current being drawn in, and then exhaled out from each of the following parts of the body, in turn, and in the following bones of the arms; (c) the top of the skull; (d) the stomach ; (e) the reproductive organ- ism ; (f ) as travelling up and down the spinal columns; (g) as inhales and then exhaled through every pore in the skin. (4) Then, breathing rhythmically, by means of Direc- tive Thought, send the current of Vital Force, and Psychic Force (combined) to the follow- ing great nervous centres of the body: (a) the forehead, (b) the back of the head, (c) the base of the brain, (d) the pit of the SOLAR PLEXUS BREATHING-EXERCISES 63 stomach, (e) the lower part of the spine, (f ) the region of the navel, and (g) the repro- ductive region. (5) Conclude by sweeping the entire body with currents of the com- bined Force, directed by Directive Thought. (6) Then rest a few minutes, breathing quiet- ly, calmly and rhythmically, and enjoying the delightful feeling of rest, content, relaxation, and peacef ulness which has come to you. Then rise, and go about your affairs, feeling like a "new man" or "new woman," by reason of the new and fresh strength that is in you. Much in Little In this book we have given you the essence, substance, gist, and spirit of the best teach- ings concerning the Solar Plexus, or Abdomi- nal Brain, — teachings both Oriental and Oc- cidental, both ancient and modern. The in- struction has been condensed and compressed into a small space, and, therefore must be most carefully read and studied in order to obtain the full contents thereof. We ask you to read and re-read this book a number of times; taking it up from time to time to re- fresh your memory concerning its teachings. The subject is an important one, and the methods and instruction given you herevc^^^^vx.^ practical and easily a^^\\^^. >?L<£t^ -5^N^^t^a2^^ 64 SOLAR PLEXUS the gist of the Solar Plexus Teaching stated in condensed form, without fanciful trim- ming, fringes, or additions attached in order to make the teachings "fit in'^ with some par- ticular metaphysical theory. You have here the essence — ^if you wish the rest, you may add it for yourself quite as well, if not better, than it has been added by certain writers and teachers on the subject in the interest of their own particular propaganda work. 5^ •*« DM 1820 o. ( DATE DUE STANFORD UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES STANFORD, CALIFORNIA 94305-6004