In the Yogic philosophy the Koshas are the layers of existence. The word means “sheath” or “‘veil”. There are five Koshas and all are necessary to life. They can also be encumbrances that are easy to get caught up in focusing on. Things that are easy to identify as.
The first Kosha is called the Anamayakosha this literally translated means “sheath consisting of food”. This is the physical body. The meat matter that is the vessel or vehicle that holds all that we are. How easy is it to believe that our worth or value lies in the body? We see it all the time. Now do we need to respect and care for this vessel? Of course. We do after all want to reside in it and have it remain mobile for as long as possible. Does it matter the shape ,size, color or even gender? Not particularly, no.
The second Kosha is called the pranamayakosha. If you have attended a yoga class this may sound familiar in the word “prana”. This means energy. We recognize it in the asana practice most often as the breath or “pranayama”.This can be thought of as the animation of the body. The action potential. Like the idle of a car, gassed and ready. The vibrational hum of readiness. Poised for movement.
The third Kosha is Manomayakosha. This is the thinking layer. The ability to guide that energy. The manipulation of the action of the energy in the body. Like the driver now in the seat, hands on the wheel and guiding the body. It is the mechanical connection to the energy.
The fourth Kosha is Vijnanamayakosha. This is our intuition. The wisdom to move the body in ways that will serve us, others and the whole journey.This is connection to higher power.
The last or core Kosha is Anandamaya kosha. Ananda means “bliss” or enlightenment. The is the reason for it all. The truest, most pure center. This is the enjoyment of the ride. Appreciation for the journey.
Life is a journey or a road trip. The koshas enable it. The body like the car needs the ability or energy to move. The car needs a driver and that driver needs a map. The trip started with a desire. A longing to experience. To marvel at the views.
The word Kosha felt right for the studio. I wanted to open space for a community of travelers to learn and connect together. We are all in our own vehicles on different roads coming from and going toward the same place but all with different routes and stops along the way. Kosha yoga Center is like a pitstop to tune up, gas up, check in, recharge and most importantly remember to enjoy the views. We are all in this together.
