Through the Kosha Bodies

Before we begin our journey through the 5 koshas (layers of your being) we'll uncover their history and philosophy while learning the importance of keeping each kosha body cleansed and cared for.

Explore your outermost layer, the food body, and learn how to cleanse it with powerful movement and a little sweat. Begin with sun salutations then flow through a sequence of balance poses and twists. Your body is a temple; it deserves your reverence and loving attention. Props Needed: Two blocks.

Journey one layer deeper to your pranic body, which organizes and holds your material body together, governing your biological processes from breathing to digestion. Learn to engage with and cleanse this kosha through a short lecture and pranayama practice that will leave you feeling calm and expanded. Props Needed: A bolster and a blanket.

Time to continue on to the third layer, your mind sheath. Learn a simple meditation technique to let go, breathe, and simply observe your thoughts. As you tend to this kosha, experience a state of lightness, tranquility, and mental restfulness. Props Suggested: A bolster or blanket.

Now our journey takes us to the fourth kosha, your wisdom body. Using a journal and pen (or simply closing your eyes if those are not handy) begin a practice of reflection, allowing you to take stock of what you have learned and how you can put it to use. Props Suggested: A journal or paper and a pen.

Experience your innermost layer, known as the bliss body. Learn how to cleanse this body through your practice then set an intention and allow a guided yoga nidra to ease you into a deep state of relaxation. Props Needed: An eye pillow and a blanket. Props Suggested: A bolster or pillow.

This full cleansing experience will guide you through all five layers of your being, from the outside in. Begin with a strong, cleansing flow (annamaya kosha), followed by nadi shodhana (pranamaya), a brief meditation (manomaya), and a reflection on the day (vijnanamaya). The second half of the class delves into a deeply relaxing yoga nidra (anandamaya), helping you continue your day feeling calm, clear, and fully integrated. Props Needed: An eye pillow and a blanket. Props Suggested: A bolster or pillow.