The Physical and Psychological Self: Exploring the Whole Self

Understanding the duality of the physical and psychological self is crucial in comprehending the true essence of one's selfhood. In the context of Vedic philosophy, these constructs are deeply interconnected and help explain various aspects of human existence.

Understanding the Physical Self

Our physical self, or Anna-maya and Prana-maya koshas, forms the foundation of our existence. The Anna-maya kosha, often translated as the food-sheath, encompasses the tangible body that we see and interact with. It is the physical manifestation that requires nourishment and sustenance to continue its vital functions.

From a more esoteric perspective, the Prana-maya kosha, or sheath of vitality, can be understood as the energy body that converts the food we consume into the vital energy required for life. This sheath is intricately linked to the body's breath, making the breath a crucial component of our physical well-being.

Embodied Self and Nourishment

Our embodied self (Jiva) is intrinsically tied to the need for nourishment. The term "deha" refers to the body that grows through the consumption of food, while "sharira" refers to the body that withers without it.

The Pranamaya-kosha has a five-fold division into:

Prana (located in the heart) Apana (located in the anal region) Samana (located in the navel) Udana (located in the throat) Vyana (pervades the entire body)

These vital airs, as described in ancient scriptures, provide the essential energy and vitality necessary for our survival and well-being.

The Psychological Self

While the physical self is instrumental, the psychological self plays an equally crucial role in our overall self-concept. This encompasses the Mano-maya Vijnana-maya and Ananda-maya koshas.

The Mano-maya kosha is the sheath of mind, giving us the ability to be conscious and aware. The Vijnana-maya kosha, or the sheath of intellect (buddhi), enables us to reflect on and perceive the world around us. These distinctions are vital in understanding our conscious and self-conscious states.

The Search for Happiness

At the heart of our existence is the pursuit of happiness. In Vedic thought, happiness or Ananda is a temporary sheath that covers our true Self, or Atman, which is eternal and beyond birth and rebirth.

The Jiva, buffeted by the dualities of pain and pleasure, experiences numerous births and rebirths through accumulated karma. This journey is exacerbated by desires, attachments, and cravings, known as raga-dvesha and vasana, respectively. It is through these existential struggles that the Jiva seeks to realize its true Self and strive for moksha, or the ultimate liberation from the cycle of births and deaths.

The Five Sheaths in the Bhrigu-Valli Section

The intricate delineation of these five sheaths, or Pancha-kosha-vivaranam, is detailed in the Bhrigu-Valli section of the Taittiriya Upanishad. This text offers profound insights into the multifaceted nature of human existence, helping us to understand the complex interplay between the physical and psychological aspects of our being.

By exploring the physical and psychological self, we gain a deeper understanding of our own existence and the journey towards enlightenment. This knowledge is instrumental in our quest for true happiness and spiritual liberation.