Meaning Of Atma Spurana And The Koshas

Let us understand the word Atma Spurana before entering into the program. Literally when translated, Atma Spurana means 'Flowering of the Self'. The word 'Self' needs to be understood. In the Western dictionary, the word 'self' is always understood as 'ego' or 'individual identity'. But in the vedic tradition, 'Self' is not considered as the individual identity. It is the eternally existing consciousness. Atma Spurana is the flowering of this consciousness.

What are koshas?

Koshas literally means 'sheaths' or 'coverings'.

Heal the Universe For example, our physical body biologically comprises various systems like nervous system, circulatory system, musculo-skeletal system, respiratory system, etc. This does not mean that these are separate systems each of which has its corresponding body part. The same physical body has a number of organs, a group of which can be classified as performing a certain function. For example, the respiratory system includes all the organs like the heart, lungs, throat, etc which are involved with the functions of inhalation, exhalation and sending oxygen to each and every part of the body and collecting carbon dioxide from every cell of the body.

So also, we can classify our body-mind-spirit system in different ways. One such classification is the koshas. The annamaya kosha is related to the physical body which is the body we can see, touch and feel. The pranamaya kosha is related to the breath, which is directly and deeply related to our desires. The manomaya kosha is related to our mind and thoughts. The vijnanamaya kosha is related to all our feelings and emotions. The anandamaya kosha is related to the bliss in us - our true nature.

We don't need to work on the Self itself in order to make this flowering happen. We need to work on something which is between us and that Self. Your body, your mind, your emotions, these few things which are between you and your Self are what we need to work on. These are called koshas; they are energy sheaths, in and around us. Only these koshas, which are five in number, need to flower, need to open, need to radiate, need to fall in tune. Understand: the ultimate Self does not need anything; only the instruments with which you experience the Self need to flower; they need to open up for you to experience the Self or Truth. All five layers need to be purified so that they constantly radiate enlightenment.

One more thing: in the NSP, we work on the samskaras or engraved memories that are printed on the koshas, on the layers. Now we are going to work on the koshas themselves*,* on the very canvas itself.