05/22/2026
Yoga Therapy 101: K O S H A S
As yoga therapists, we use koshas as a map to understand the —whole person—and to identify where someone’s imbalance might be coming from.
Koshas are layers of a person ranging from the physical body to the deepest sense of self.
Here’s how each layer works in practice 👇
1. Physical Layer (Annamaya Kosha)
This is the physical body. Think, muscles, joints, mobility, breath mechanics, etc. As a yoga therapist I might look at posture, mobility, strength, breathing patterns, tension, weakness or pain and choose practices to help.
2. Energy/Breath Layer (Pranamaya Kosha)
This layer is all about the breath and flow of energy. We use breathwork for so many things but some of the most important would be to calm anxiety, boost energy, regulate the nervous system, release tension and to prepare the body for and rest.
3. Mind/Emotion Layer (Manomaya Kosha)
This is the layer of everyday thoughts and emotions. We might work with grounding practices, meditation, yoga nidra, relaxation and simple mindfulness exercises.
4. Wisdom/Insight Layer (Vijnanamaya Kosha)
This is intuition, clarity, and Higher Self. We support people in noticing what feelings come up in their body, words are not necessarily needed. We ask people to reflect on what feels good and what doesn’t in their body and in their life. Body awareness, deep inner listening and mindfulness are practiced here.
5. Joy/Spirit Layer (Anandamaya Kosha)
This is true calm, contentment and connection. It shows up when someone feels regulated in their nervous system, grounded, supported, and whole. Practices here are typically quiet: meditation, restorative work, or anything that helps someone connect with love, their personal truth and higher power.
