Deeper Levels of Healing: Exploring the Koshas
Healing is a journey, not a destination. My own healing journey began over thirty years ago when I walked into my first yoga class. At the time, I was on medical leave, struggling with gastroparesis—a condition that left me debilitated. The medications I was taking were causing depression, and I often felt too weak to function. With three young children at home, I longed for relief but found that healing was not a quick fix—it was a layered process.
The yogic tradition offers a profound model for understanding the layers of our being, known as the Koshas. These five layers, or sheaths, guide us through the intricate process of healing beyond just the physical body. By exploring and addressing each Kosha, we can cultivate a more holistic approach to well-being, balancing body, mind, and spirit.
The Koshas: Layers of Being
The concept of the Koshas comes from ancient yogic philosophy and describes five interwoven layers of existence:
- Annamaya Kosha (Physical Body) – This is our most tangible layer, consisting of our muscles, bones, and organs. Yoga postures (asanas), proper nutrition, and physical movement help maintain balance in this layer.
- Pranamaya Kosha (Energy Body) – The breath and life force (prana) reside here. Breathwork (pranayama) and energy-based practices like Mudras and meditation support this vital energy layer.
- Manomaya Kosha (Mental Body) – This layer is associated with thoughts, emotions, and mental patterns. Practices such as mindfulness, HeartMath techniques, and affirmations can bring clarity and emotional balance.
- Vijnanamaya Kosha (Wisdom Body) – Our intuition and deep self-awareness emerge in this layer. Meditation, self-inquiry, and reflective journaling help us connect with our inner wisdom.
5. Anandamaya Kosha (Bliss Body) – The deepest layer, where we experience joy, connection, and a sense of oneness with the universe. Through deep meditation and heart-centered practices, we cultivate a state of inner peace.
How I Incorporate the Koshas in My Teaching
In my yoga classes and private sessions, I guide students through these layers to support healing on multiple levels:
- Physical Well-Being (Annamaya Kosha): Thoughtful movement sequences help relieve tension, improve mobility, and promote a sense of ease in the body.
- Energetic Balance (Pranamaya Kosha): Breath-centered practices regulate the nervous system and enhance vitality.
- Emotional Awareness (Manomaya Kosha): Reflection, guided relaxation, and affirmations help shift unhelpful thought patterns.
- Intuitive Insight (Vijnanamaya Kosha): Students learn to listen to their inner guidance for healing and decision-making.
- Cultivating Joy (Anandamaya Kosha): Meditation, gratitude practices, and heart-centered techniques invite moments of peace and fulfillment.
Click on the link below for a Yoga Nidra practice that incorporates all of the Koshas.
