Even though the whole of the etheric body has to do with life
force, one of its layers is more specifically related to life: the life
ether. Occultists have traditionally discerned four layers in the
etheric body. These are: the life ether, the chemical ether, the
light ether and the warmth ether. The word ‘layer’ can be
confusing because the four ethers are not stacked on top of each
other like the layers of a cake. Rather, they permeate each other,
like water permeates a sponge.
The four ethers can be divided into two groups: two lower and two
higher. The life and chemical ethers are referred to as the lower
ethers and the light and warmth ethers as the higher ethers.
Presently, in most human beings the two higher ethers are not
very developed and still need to be cultivated.
The life force is indeed a most precious energy. No laboratory of
our scientific civilisation has ever been able to synthesise one
single living organism! Connecting specifically with the life ether
is a very special experience. Words alone cannot really describe the
flavour of consciousness associated with it. The life ether appears
like a universal principle, certainly not confined to the limits of
the physical body. If you try to trace its origin, your
consciousness will be taken to mysterious places. Following the
ethers to their source is a powerful technique of clairvoyance and
of travelling.
Try to repeat this practice at different times of the day, such
as in the morning and in the evening, to feel if any difference
can be detected in your life energy. Also have a look at it when
you feel very tired.
Even though it would be a bit premature to spend a lot of time
trying to discern these four layers just now, it is good to keep in
mind this fourfold division of the etheric. It will make it easier to
discern them as your perception develops.
It is an interesting fact that we always find it easier to perceive
what our mind can understand. Perceptions for which we have no
pattern of explanation at all are more likely to be missed,
especially when they are faint, as in the beginning.
On this topic, a curious anthropological observation: various videos
are shown to certain South American natives who have always lived
in a jungle, isolated from industrial products and civilisation. One
of the videos shows a square, like the empty frame of a window,
