1. Annamaya Kosha (Physical Body)
The "Food Body." This is your physical anatomy—bones, muscles, organs. It is the hardware. Ignoring this layer (poor diet, lack of sleep) disrupts all subtler layers. Grounding begins here.
2. Pranamaya Kosha (Energy Body)
The "Vital Body." This is the physiological system—breath, digestion, circulation. This is where "energy work" is often felt. It bridges the physical and the mental.
3. Manomaya Kosha (Mental Body)
The "Mind Body." This includes emotions, sensory input, and linear thinking. It is the processing center. Most "spiritual" conflict actually occurs here, in the realm of stories and emotions.
4. Vijnanamaya Kosha (Intellectual/Wisdom Body)
The "Discernment Body." This is the faculty of higher intelligence, intuition, and the ability to witness the lower three layers. This is the observer.
5. Anandamaya Kosha (Bliss Body)
The "Joy Body." Not emotional happiness, but the stillness of deep sleep or profound peace. It is the most subtle layer, closest to the core self.