What are the layers of your being? We know that yoga involves more than the physical, but how can we begin to understand those other aspects of ourselves?
"Yoga is the journey to the self, through the self". K. Pattabhi Jois
Let me introduce you to the five Koshas: the layers (or sheaths) of our being that extend beyond the body.
These five layers are:
1️⃣ Annamaya Kosha – Physical body
2️⃣ Pranamaya Kosha – Energy body
3️⃣ Manomaya Kosha – Mental/emotional body
4️⃣ Vijnanamaya Kosha – Wisdom body
5️⃣ Anandamaya Kosha – Bliss body
Each layer weaves together, guiding us toward a deeper connection with our true self, or Ātman - the self that exists beyond ALL the layers. The layers are not separate. They interweave with one another. We can sense and feel each layer as we move through our lives.
When we move, for example, we feel the physical body. Throughout the days, we feel our energies shift and change, and as we grow and move through our lives, we learn and recognise the wisdom within us. We experience joy or bliss when we are truly connected to the world and to ourselves. Yoga teaches us this sense of ONENESS.
Through a mindful yoga practice, we can peel back these layers and experience physical sensation and a sense of peace, vitality, and self-awareness.
Are you curious about how to connect to these layers through your yoga practice?
When we can more deeply appreciate and understand each Kosha we can see how we can integrate them into our yoga practice, and in turn help us explore the deeper dimensions of our being. Understanding the Koshas can help us tap into so much more than the physical… also our energy, emotions, wisdom, and, ultimately, bliss.
The Five Koshas in Yoga...
The five koshas are layers of the human being, according to ancient yogic texts. They represent different aspects of our existence, from the physical to the spiritual.
1. Annamaya Kosha: Physical Body
This is the outermost layer; the physical body composed of the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and ether).
Yoga Integration: Physical yoga postures (asanas) directly work on this layer, improving flexibility, strength, balance and overall health.
2. Pranamaya Kosha: Energy Body
This layer is the energy body, associated with vital energy or prana (life force). It governs life processes like breathing, digestion, and circulation.
Yoga Integration: Pranayama (breathing exercises) and energy-focused practices like Kundalini yoga directly work on this layer.
3. Manomaya Kosha: Mental/Emotional Body
This layer is the mind, responsible for thoughts, emotions, and perceptions.
Yoga Integration: Meditation, mindfulness, and certain yoga postures that stimulate the mind-body connection, such as inversions and twists, can balance this layer.
4. Vijnanamaya Kosha: Wisdom Body
This layer is associated with intellect, intuition, and wisdom. It is the layer of discrimination, seeing the truth, and understanding life.
Yoga Integration: Advanced meditation practices and philosophical study can tap into this layer.
5. Anandamaya Kosha: Bliss Body
This is the innermost layer, the layer of pure bliss and consciousness. It is the ultimate goal of yoga.
Yoga Integration: Deep meditation, self-inquiry, and spiritual practices aim to connect with this layer.
Weaving the Koshas into Your Yoga Practice
* Recognise that yoga is not just about physical postures. It's a holistic practice that addresses all layers of your being.
* Incorporate various aspects of yoga, including physical postures, pranayama, meditation, and philosophical study, to address all five koshas.
* Pay attention to your physical sensations, thoughts, and emotions during your practice. This can help you connect with different layers of your being.
Understanding and working with the five koshas, you can deepen your yoga practice and experience a deeper and more transformative journey.
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