Lesson 1: The Three Bodies

1. Sthula Sharira (Physical Body):

Sharira (शरी र): "body"

The tangible body - made up of the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and ether) impacted by the cycles of growth, decay, and death.

2. Sukshma Sharira (Subtle Body):

The energetic body, containing the Chakras, Nadis (energy channels), Prana (life force) and Kosha’s.

3. Karana Sharira (Causal Body):

Karana (करण): "causing," "making," or "that which causes"

This is the most subtle of the three bodies. It's considered the “seed body”, containing the karmic imprints (samskaras) of past experiences and the blueprint for future lives. The causal body is associated with deep-seated tendencies, patterns, and fundamental nature.