Ayurveda connects body, mind and soul and each of them need to be nourished to ensure balance. Pancha Kosha (literally translated meaning five layers or envelopes) refers to the various ‘bodies’.
The physical body is referred to as Anna Maya (Anna meaning food and Maya illusion) nourishing this layer would be eating foods that balance your specific dosha, sattvic foods and ensuring you get good quality sleep. Taking specific herbs for your constitution too.
The energetic body is referred to as Prana Maya (Prana meaning life force energy). Breathe work would help to nourish this layer, meditation and surrounding yourself with positive people.
The mental body is referred to as Mano Maya (Mano meaning mind). Practicing daily meditation, journaling, yoga, all help to nourish this layer.
The wisdom body is called Vijnana Maya (Vijnana meaning consciousness). Allowing yourself to discover and follow your dharma (truth). Spending time in silence and in nature helps to nourish this layer.
The spiritual body is called Ananda Maya (Ananda meaning bliss) this is felt when the other layers are balanced, nourishing this can be as simple as smiling for no reason, practicing daily rituals and being present in the here and now.
At the centre is the Atman, the soul, the bright white light that is the same in us all.
Our kosha’s communicate with each other, it goes some way to explain why we feel comfortable with some people and not everyone, we need to nourish and respect each and every layer.
Have a beautiful day.
