5 Layers of Being: An Introduction to the Koshas

Have you ever felt like there’s more to you than just your physical body? As yoga teachers, spiritual coaches, and seekers, we know that well-being runs deeper than muscles and bones. The ancient yogic sages understood this truth thousands of years ago and gave us a beautiful framework to explore it—the Koshas, or the “five layers of being.”

In this post, we’ll explore what the Koshas are, why they matter for yogis and spiritual seekers, and how understanding them can expand both your practice and your teaching.

What Are the Koshas?

In yogic philosophy, kosha means “sheath” or “layer.” Think of them as subtle veils that cover your true Self, each one shaping your experience of life. These five layers move from the most tangible (the physical body) to the most subtle (the bliss body):

1. Annamaya Kosha – The Physical Body

Your body of flesh, bones, and muscles. Nourished by food (anna), this kosha reminds us to honor the vehicle that carries us.

2. Pranamaya Kosha – The Energy Body

The layer of breath and life force (prana). It governs vitality, energy flow, and connection to breathwork and pranayama practices.

3. Manomaya Kosha – The Mental Body

Your mind, emotions, and thought patterns live here. This kosha shapes how you process experiences and interact with the world.

4. Vijnanamaya Kosha – The Wisdom Body

The deeper layer of intuition, insight, and inner knowing. Here we tap into clarity beyond logic and the wisdom of the higher mind.

5. Anandamaya Kosha – The Bliss Body

The innermost layer of joy, love, and spiritual connection. This is the kosha closest to your true Self—the spark of divinity within.

Why the Koshas Matter for Yogis and Teachers

The Koshas aren’t just philosophy—they’re practical tools for personal growth, spiritual coaching, and yoga teaching. When you learn to work with these five layers, you:

• Expand your practice beyond poses into energy, meditation, and joy.

• Help students and clients move past surface challenges into deeper transformation.

• Find balance in your own life by nurturing body, breath, mind, wisdom, and spirit.

At Mindful Purpose Institute, we believe the Koshas offer a spiritual roadmap for modern seekers—helping yoga teachers, coaches, and students alike live with more alignment and purpose.

How to Explore the Koshas Today

Want to start connecting with your own five layers of being? Try this simple practice:

1. Physical Body (Annamaya): Take 5 minutes to stretch or move. Notice sensations in your muscles and joints.

2. Energy Body (Pranamaya): Close your eyes and take 10 deep belly breaths. Feel the rise and fall of prana.

3. Mental Body (Manomaya): Write down one thought that’s been looping in your mind. Acknowledge it without judgment.

4. Wisdom Body (Vijnanamaya): Sit quietly for 2 minutes. Listen for inner guidance or intuition.

5. Bliss Body (Anandamaya): Reflect on one thing you’re deeply grateful for. Allow joy to fill your heart.

Even this short sequence can help you feel more whole and connected.

The Koshas remind us that yoga is not just about physical postures—it’s about the journey inward. As yoga teachers, coaches, and seekers, our work is to peel back these layers to reconnect with the light of the Self. When we live in awareness of the Koshas, we step into our true purpose: living and teaching from the soul.

If this resonates, our Awakening the Layers Within: The 5 Koshas Course at Mindful Purpose Institute takes you deeper. You’ll explore each layer through guided practices, teachings, and tools you can use personally and professionally—plus earn CEUs for your continued growth as a yoga teacher.

You are more than your body. You are more than your thoughts. You are a luminous being wrapped in five layers of experience—each one a doorway to greater balance and freedom. Start where you are, and let the Koshas guide you home to your Self.

You are your greatest healer.