Koshas
(कोश)Literal Meaning
Sheaths; layers
Etymology & Sanskrit Root
Sanskrit for 'sheath'; the five layers described in the Taittiriya Upanishad — annamaya (physical), pranamaya (energetic), manomaya (mental), vijnanamaya (wisdom), and anandamaya (bliss) — that are said to envelop the true Self.
Spiritual Insight & Context
Yogic practice works outside-in through the koshas — starting with the body (asana), moving through breath and mind, until only the blissful, innermost sheath of pure awareness remains.