Tri Sarira: Understanding The Three Bodies in Yoga

Yoga, in its holistic approach, views the human being as more than just a physical entity. Master Ketut Arsana, in his words introduces the concept of Tri Sarira, the "three bodies," as a fundamental framework for understanding the complete human experience. This concept is crucial for grasping the yogic perspective on health, well-being, and spiritual growth.

The Concept of Tri Sarira

Master Ketut Arsana explains that Tri Sarira comprises three distinct yet interconnected bodies:

• Kesula Sarira: The physical body.

• Sukshma Sarira: The subtle body.

• Antahkarana Sarira: The causal body.

He emphasizes that balancing these three bodies is essential for overall harmony. This concept aligns with the broader yogic philosophy of integration and unity, seeking to harmonize the various layers of human existence.

1. Kesula Sarira: The Physical Body

Master Ketut Arsana identifies Kesula Sarira as the physical body. He describes it as the vehicle through which we experience the physical realm (Bur Loka).

• Importance and Care: He stresses the importance of cherishing and taking care of the physical body. This includes providing it with proper nourishment and maintaining its health. He suggests that the body is a gift and a tool for our journey in this realm.

• Food and Its Influence: Master Ketut Arsana delves into the influence of food on the physical body. He categorizes food based on its qualities, a concept rooted in Ayurvedic principles:

  • Sattvic: Pure, wholesome food that promotes clarity and energy.

  • Rajasic: Stimulating food that can lead to restlessness.

  • Tamasic: Heavy food that can cause lethargy. He advocates for mindful eating and choosing foods that support physical and mental well-being.

• Listening to the Body: He emphasizes the importance of paying attention to the body's signals. For example, he mentions that gas can be an indicator of imbalance. This highlights the yogic principle of self-awareness and responsiveness to the body's needs.

• Cleansing Practices (Kriya): Master Ketut Arsana also touches upon cleansing practices (Kriya) for the physical body. He specifically mentions cleansing the mouth and anus. This aligns with yogic traditions that emphasize purification as a means to maintain physical health and prepare the body for spiritual practices.

2. Sukshma Sarira: The Subtle Body

Master Ketut Arsana introduces Sukshma Sarira as the subtle body, encompassing the emotional, energetic, and mental aspects of our being.

• Chakras and Emotional History: He connects the Sukshma Sarira to the chakra system, energy centers within the subtle body. He suggests that these chakras hold our emotional history, and trauma can be stored within them. This aligns with yogic and energetic healing practices that work with the chakras to release emotional blockages.

• Trauma Release: Master Ketut Arsana indicates that yoga practices, particularly those focused on the spine, breath, and movement, can help release emotional trauma stored in the subtle body. This highlights the therapeutic potential of yoga in addressing emotional well-being.

• The Nature of the Mind: He briefly touches upon the nature of the mind, suggesting that it is constantly moving and changing. He advocates for observing thoughts without resistance, a key principle in mindfulness and meditation practices.

• Prana and Breath: Master Ketut Arsana emphasizes the role of Prana (life force) and breath in the Sukshma Sarira. He suggests that Prana is the connection between the physical and subtle bodies. This underscores the importance of Pranayama (breath control) in yogic practices to regulate energy flow and enhance mental clarity.

3. Antahkarana Sarira: The Causal Body

Master Ketut Arsana describes Antahkarana Sarira as the causal body, representing the spiritual or soul aspect of our being.

• Connection to the Divine: He suggests that the Antahkarana Sarira is our connection to the divine or higher consciousness. Yoga practices, he implies, are a means to purify and connect with this deeper aspect of ourselves.

• Diksha and Heart Opening: Master Ketut Arsana mentions Diksha, a spiritual name received from a Guru, and its connection to the Antahkarana Sarira. He associates Diksha with the opening of the heart, symbolizing a deepening of spiritual awareness.

• Balance and Integration: He implies that the goal of yoga is to bring balance and harmony to all three bodies, ultimately leading to a state of inner peace and spiritual realization.

Integration of Tri Sarira in Yoga Practice

Master Ketut Arsana's explanation of Tri Sarira provides a framework for understanding how various yoga practices work on different levels:

• Asana (physical postures) primarily work on the Kesula Sarira, improving physical health and flexibility.

• Pranayama (breath control) works on the Sukshma Sarira, regulating energy flow and calming the mind.

• Dhyana (meditation) works on the Antahkarana Sarira, deepening spiritual connection and self-awareness.

  
  

By integrating these practices, yoga addresses the whole person, promoting holistic well-being.

Master Ketut Arsana's perspective on Tri Sarira offers a valuable lens through which to understand the transformative potential of yoga. By recognizing the interconnectedness of the physical, subtle, and causal bodies, yoga practitioners can cultivate a more profound and balanced approach to their practice and their lives. This understanding emphasizes that true yoga is not merely a physical discipline but a holistic path to self-discovery and spiritual awakening.