A Conceptual Study of Panchkosh

Abstract

Introduction

Modern medicine largely views the human body as a physical and biochemical machine, achieving remarkable success in diagnosis and treatment but often neglecting emotional, ethical, and existential dimensions of health. In contrast, ancient Indian wisdom presents a holistic model of human existence through Sharira Traya (three bodies: gross, subtle, and causal) and Panchakosha Sharir (five interrelated sheaths: Annamaya, Pranamaya, Manomaya, Vigyanamaya, and Anandamaya). This framework recognizes health as the integration of physical nourishment, vital energy, mental and emotional balance, intellectual clarity, and inner bliss.

The study systematically reviews classical Vedic, Upanishadic, Ayurvedic, yogic, and philosophical texts and compares them with modern scientific research in neuroscience, nutrition, psychology, and physiology. Results show strong parallels between ancient concepts and contemporary findings such as the gut–brain axis, neuroplasticity, stress biology, autonomic regulation, BDNF, and meditation research.

Each kosha corresponds to modern domains: nutrition and metabolism (Annamaya), breath and autonomic regulation (Pranamaya), psychology and emotions (Manomaya), cognition and moral reasoning (Vigyanamaya), and states of bliss and consciousness (Anandamaya). The discussion highlights that while modern reductionist medicine fragments the human experience, the Vedic model integrates body, energy, mind, intellect, and consciousness, offering a more comprehensive framework for addressing lifestyle diseases, mental health challenges, stress, and loss of meaning.

Conclusion

The Panchakosha and Sharira Traya frameworks present a complete, holistic anatomy of the human being one that encompasses physical, vital, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual dimensions. This research demonstrates that: Annamaya influences physical and mental health through diet, gut microbiome, and BDNF. Pranamaya regulates emotions, vitality, and bioelectric functions through breath. Manomaya determines happiness and suffering through thought patterns. Vigyanamaya guides ethical and intelligent living through discrimination. Anandamaya represents the ultimate goal inner bliss independent of external conditions. While modern medicine excels in treating disease, the Vedic model excels in preventing suffering, maintaining well-being, and promoting inner evolution. When both systems combine, a complete and integrative model of human health emerges capable of addressing not just illness, but the full spectrum of human experience from body to consciousness. Thus, Panchakosha Sharir is not ancient metaphysics it is a timeless scientific framework for human life, health, and spiritual evolution.

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Dr. Ankita Pareek, Prof. Vikash Bhatnagar. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.