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Vijnanamaya Kosha

5/25/2025

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In the ancient yogic tradition, the human experience is described as being composed of five layers, or koshas, each representing a different aspect of our being. These koshas range from the tangible, physical body to the most subtle layers of consciousness.

Here we explore the fourth sheath, Vijnanamaya Kosha, the wisdom body. The Sanskrit word Vijnana can be translated as "inner wisdom" or "discernment." Maya means "composed of," and kosha means "sheath" or "layer." So Vijnanamaya Kosha is the sheath composed of wisdom. It bridges the gap between our rational thinking mind and the deeper, intuitive knowledge that guides our choices and aligns us with truth.

This kosha encompasses our intellect, intuition, and higher knowledge. It’s the part of us that discerns right from wrong—not from a place of societal conditioning, but from an inner knowing aligned with dharma (our true purpose).

When we step onto the yoga mat or sit in meditation, we are not just moving or breathing—we are refining our awareness. As we move deeper into practice, we begin to experience the subtle dimensions of our being. Vijnanamaya Kosha becomes accessible when we quiet the chatter of the mind and connect to the witness within.

This is the kosha where clarity arises, where we begin to observe our thoughts without becoming entangled in them. Through practices such as self-inquiry (Svadhyaya), meditation, and mindful awareness, we strengthen this sheath and develop insight into who we truly are beyond the roles we play.

Signs of a Balanced Vijnanamaya Kosha
  • A strong sense of inner guidance
  • Clear decision-making free from ego or fear
  • Alignment of thoughts, speech, and action
  • A life led by values and inner conviction (yamas & niyamas)
  • The ability to pause and reflect before reacting
When this kosha is out of balance, we may feel confused, indecisive, or disconnected from our intuition. We might struggle to trust ourselves or feel overwhelmed by external opinions.

How to Nourish the Wisdom Body
To cultivate Vijnanamaya Kosha, try integrating the following into your yoga and spiritual practice:
  1. Meditation – Spend time each day observing your thoughts without judgment. Try practices like Mindful Meditation (observing thoughts without judgement) or Yoga Nidra.
  2. Svadhyaya (Self-study) – Read sacred texts, journal, or engage in contemplative inquiry.
  3. Satsang – Spend time with wise teachers or in the company of those who inspire you to live with integrity.
  4. Live with Awareness – Bring mindfulness into daily actions. Ask yourself: "Is this choice aligned with my highest truth?"
  5. Asana with Intention – Practice yoga poses not just for flexibility or strength, but as a way to cultivate inner stillness and reflection.
The Path Toward Inner Wisdom
Ultimately, working with Vijnanamaya Kosha is about developing a relationship with your inner guide. It’s the subtle intelligence that whispers truth in quiet moments. When we slow down, listen, and trust, we open to a life lived not from impulse, but from insight.

As we journey through the koshas—from the physical body to the blissful core—we begin to experience ourselves not as fragmented parts, but as a harmonious whole. Vijnanamaya Kosha is a pivotal gateway in this unfolding—a bridge between mind and soul.

The ultimate goal is for your practice to illuminate the wisdom and joy* that already lives within you. 

*More on joy next month when we dive into Anandamaya Kosha, the bliss layer!

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    Dena D. Beratta

    Honored to teach, but always a student.

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