Within the system of Ayurveda, it’s understood that the bodily physique, and all matter, is manifested from consciousness, or gentle. This may be in comparison with psychological concepts about how our notion informs our expertise, and to ideas in physics about atoms behaving each like particles (matter) and waves (gentle). Just like the high quality layers that mix to ascertain a seashell, the Koshas are layers that collectively manifest the human physique.
The best way by which consciousness manifests nature may be organized into completely different layers, based mostly on their frequency. Much like the way in which by which gentle manifests in several frequencies, or wavelengths, and seem as separate colours, the physique’s frequencies may be organized in layers known as koshas.
The primary kosha is probably the most dense, and is named Annamaya kosha. It pertains to survival and probably the most gross, or bodily features of the physique. As a result of it offers with grounded, bodily nature of the physique, meals is crucial for its functioning. So, in Ayurveda, it’s known as the Sheath of Meals.
The second kosha is Prānamaya kosha. This layer governs prāna, or the refined vitality that’s gathered within the postures and respiration practices in yoga. It’s subtler than the bodily physique. Prānamaya kosha is probably not perceived straight by the 5 senses, however is perceivable in its relationship to physicality. As an example, shallowness, id and procreation exist in Prānamaya kosha. It’s refered to because the Sheath of Important Essence.
The third, Manomaya kosha, connects to ambition, achievement, energy, and management. It’s nonetheless extra refined — much less dense than Prānamaya Kosha. You would possibly acknowledge the Sanskrit phrase Man in its identify, which implies “to suppose.” It’s the Sheath of Thoughts.
The fourth is Jñānamaya kosha, and is all about love — not sexual, or romantic essentially, however in regards to the depth of the emotional world. This layer vibrates increased than thoughts, as it’s much less dense. The middle of 1’s being resides right here, as does empathy, compassion, instinct, and compassion. It’s the Sheath of Information.
The fifth is Ānandamaya kosha, the place the 2 elementary energies meet, and realization occurs. This layer is called the Sheath of Bliss.
For those who’re conversant in the chakara system, observe that the Koshas may be understood in correspondance to the chakaras.
1/17/25
Article by Luisa R.
References
Lad, Vassant. Textbook of Ayurveda: Basic Ideas. The Ayurveda Press, 1996.
