Anandamayakosha

What is it?

The Anandamayakosha is explained as 'Unity Consciousness' or Oneness that can be experienced when the mind rests in its natural state of ease.

Yoga practices that work with this Kosha

Meditation and all practices addressed in the prior four koshas can be stepping stones to work with the Anandamayakosha. In this state, the individual self drops out completely, and there is only connection to the 'Source', 'Oneness', 'Atman (God), 'Pure Consciousness' (all terms used for the same "thing".)

Samadhi is the integration of the individual with the whole. In terms of health or Yoga therapy, reaching Samadhi is the optimal state as the body and mind align with our 'true nature' where the innate whole and complete state of being is brought back into awareness. As a result, health pervades on all levels.

When one is able to connect and integrate fully with the Anandamayakosha, they are said to realize and know their true nature; when they abide in that place, this state is called Enlightenment.

References

• Interdisciplinary Yoga Teacher Training Manual, Nosara Yoga Institute
• Professional Yoga Therapist Manual, created by Integrative Yoga Therapy, 2006, Joseph LePage
• Yoga and Ayurveda by David Frawley

Related Articles

• Hatha yoga
• Prana
• Yoga