When doing the serpent is free Ritual

[Quietlysings]

The instructions say Vibrate AUM Then State with conviction 18 times
The serpent is free, The serpent is exalted! The serpent is forever! Vibrate AUM
Am I supposed to say the affirmation 18 Times and then Vibrate AUM or Affirmation AUM X18?

 

[tandt]

Only vibrate Aum at the beginning and at the closing, that is. AUM X1 ,AFFIRMATIONS X18 ,AUMX1

 

[Quietlysings]

Thank you