Intrigued by the spiritual sphere in Ayurveda?
Then you are reading the right article! Here, you will delve into a crucial concept in Ayurvedic philosophy:
the 5 Koshas.
Before getting to the heart of the matter, it is important to underline that, according to Ayurveda, humans are not simply physical beings or souls alone, but rather a holistic,
interconnected whole. The holistic perspective, in fact, considers the human being as an indivisible and irreducible totality.
According to Ayurveda, our spirit (Atman) is encased within
5 sheaths (Koshas) nested one within the other. To better understand how these layers are arranged, just picture our being as a Russian doll. These interrelated layers store our vital energy.
The 5 layers that make up our entire being
- Annamaya Kosha, also known as the “physical body”, is our outermost layer, nourished by food, water, and oxygen. This layer is the most tangible one, allowing us to interact with the world and access deeper layers. However, it is not possible to interact with the other koshas unless we have taken care of our physical health first. How? With practices like healthy eating, fasting, detoxification, and exercise.
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- Pranamaya Kosha, also known as the “subtle body”, is our energy sheath, connecting us to our deepest layers. This intangible Kosha is composed of Prana, the life-force energy. Prana flows through the body via Nadis (energy channels) and Chakras (energy centers). Pranayama breathing exercises are excellent ways of getting Prana into and through the body.
- Manomaya Kosha, also known as the “mental body”, acts as a filter between the external world and our soul, showing us that our perceptions are often altered by our mind, Manas, i.e. by our thoughts, emotions, feelings, and instincts. How to balance Manas? With meditation, which helps us understand the distinction between our being and the mind, allowing us to detach from cravings, desires, and grudges.
- Vijnanamaya Kosha, also known as the “wisdom body”, corresponds to our intellect, intuition, and inner wisdom (Buddhi). This Kosha transcends practical intelligence, offering a deeper, more intuitive level of understanding. Yogic practices like Trataka meditation can nourish this layer.
- Anandamaya Kosha, also known as the "bliss body", is the innermost layer, closest to the Atman. Engaging with this sheath allows us to experience a state of profound peace and well-being that transcends the boundaries of the body. While ever-present, Anandamaya Kosha can be challenging to access due to the hectic pace of modern life and the lack of deep connections. Engaging with this layer requires, in fact, a great effort, as one needs to work with constancy and dedication on all previous bodies. Sadly, many people remain unaware of this Kosha's existence and often seek insane stimulation through means like drugs to fill the void.
Conclusions
Ayurveda likens the five Koshas to the
interwoven threads of a carpet. If one of these threads is strained or broken, the entire fabric is weakened: when the body is neglected, the breath is shallow, the mind is agitated, and wisdom and joy diminish. If there is a disconnect from the spirit, the body weakens spiritually, and
disharmony arises in all layers.
Conversely, a deep connection with our spirit fosters
peace and joy in our life. This underscores the power of Ayurveda, with its yogic practices and philosophy integrated into daily life, to restore harmony within the Koshas (body, breath, mind, wisdom, and spirit). Allowing these layers to interrelate not only enhances our
physical and mental health, but also guides us towards
self-realisation and helps us experience the
fullness of life.
Wishing to enjoy the benefits of Ayurvedic treatments? Book a stay at Hotel Caesius and start your journey to a healthier, happier life!
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