Class Elements by Kosha: Class Elements, Tools & Practices

It’s challenging and perhaps even mis-guided to try and assign each class element as targeting only one kosha, or layer of self. But we hope our attempt will help you consider if you’ve got a mix of elements to affect a student’s whole being.

Annamaya Kosha – Physical Body

• Asana*
• Hands-On
• Props

Pranamaya Kosha – Energetic Body

• Breath Awareness
• Mudra
• Pranayama

Manomaya Kosha – Mental / Emotional Body

• Mantra
• Partnering*
• Readings
• Visualization

Vijnanamaya Kosha – Wisdom Body

• Meditation
• Mindfulness

Anandamaya Kosha – Bliss Body

• Chant
• Ritual
• Sound

Notes

For the purpose here, we’ve made the assumption that asana affects primarily the Annamaya Kosha and that it is the addition of breath awareness with asana that affects the Pranamaya Kosha.

For partnering, we’re reasoning that beyond the physical experience, students are having a social and emotional experience when working with others that affects their Manomaya Kosha.