Travel as Therapy: Healing Through the Five Koshas
Travel as Therapy: Healing Through the Five Koshas In the fast-paced rhythm of modern life, travel is often seen as leisure, but through the lens of Vedanta, it unfolds as Chikitsa (therapy). The Panchakosha theory of the Upanishads explains human existence in five layers — Annamaya, Pranamaya, Manomaya, Vijnanamaya, and Anandamaya kosha. Travel, when mindfully experienced, nourishes each of these koshas, leading to holistic healing. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 1. Annamaya Kosha – Journey Alongside Rivers The Annamaya kosha is the physical sheath, sustained by food and environment. Traveling alongside rivers—whether it is the Ganga, Kaveri, or Narmada—revitalizes the body. The flowing water symbolizes renewal, washing away fatigue, and grounding us in nature’s rhythm. Walking, boating, or simply ...