Yoga says that there are five dimensions of the body called Koshas or sheaths.
The five Koshas are an energetic understanding of a person visualized as layers or more or less density of energy. They are part of an ancient system in yoga which we use to transient deeper into ourselves. The body itself is the least subtle layer, and subsequent layers of prana, mind, wisdom, bliss form concentric circles around the Center of Your Being… The Atman. Keep reading to learn more about this vision of human anatomy and see how it can be useful in your daily life.
- ANNAMAYA:
Anna means food. The first layer represents the physical body, including skin, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and bones.
Your Annamaya is your physical body, which depends on food (Anna) for its nutrition. Therefore, it is vital to pay attention to the type of food with which you feed your Annamaya. In yoga, we take care of this aspect to enjoy our external life, to relax our bodies, to gain strength, improve our balance, and find stress relief.
- PRANAMAYA:
The second layer represents the energetic body or subtle body. It is the entire circulatory system of prana or vital energy. Prana comes into the body via food and water, but it also comes into the body via breath. One of the main benefits of yoga is that we become conscious of our breathing, and we learn how to take proper deep breaths.
- MANOMAYA:
Mana means mind. Manamaya symbolizes intellect, reason, and memory. The practice of asanas and pranayama helps us to calm the mind.
- VIJANAMAYA:
Vijnana means knowledge. Vijanamaya represents the subtlest area of the mind, also known as intuition and wisdom. When you develop it enough, you begin to experience unusual sensations in the asanas, for example, the strength and power in the posture of the tree.
- ANANDAMAYA:
The last kosha represents pure bliss. Ananda means joy, it is a state of peace, harmony, and love that is beyond understanding. Within Anadamaya, you can feel the connection with your soul and liberation from suffering (Atman).
Yoga makes you aware of these layers and helps you create a path to the deeper layers to make them easier to access. If you are a beginner, the asanas prepare your physical body, and as you practice, you will have access to deeper layers of consciousness. Finally, yoga philosophy gives you the tools to generate awareness to feel your emotions and calm down your mind, so that you can be the manifestation of health and enlightenment.