The Subtle Body: Unlocking Your Ninth Light Body in Yoga

The subtle body, often referred to as the ninth light body, is a crucial aspect of our energetic makeup. It represents a layer of being that extends beyond the physical, allowing us to tap into intuition, perceive the energy around us, and engage with life more profoundly. Whether you are new to yoga or an experienced practitioner, gaining insight into the subtle body can enhance your practice, enrich your understanding of yourself, and help you navigate life more clearly.

Though often associated with Kundalini yoga, the subtle body is a concept that transcends a single yoga tradition. It appears in many ancient teachings and is a fundamental part of the holistic view of the human experience. In this article, we will explore the subtle body, where the concept originated, how it relates to the chakra system, and how you can work with it through your yoga practice.

What is The Subtle Body in Yoga?

The subtle body is one of the layers of being that goes beyond the physical body, tapping into energy and intuition. It is connected to prana, the vital life force energy that flows through every living being, and the five prana vayus, which direct this energy throughout the body. The subtle body exists in the space between the physical and spiritual realms, allowing us to tune into things that are not immediately seen or felt. Yogis with a strong subtle body have heightened awareness and an intuitive sense of how energy flows in their own lives and the lives of others.

Origins of The Subtle Body in Yoga

The term “subtle body” originates in ancient Sanskrit texts, where it is tied to the concept of the koshas, or layers of being. In the Upanishads and other early yogic scriptures, the five koshas—physical, energetic, mental, wisdom, and bliss—are said to envelop the true self. The subtle body interacts with two of these koshas, particularly the energy body (pranamaya kosha) and wisdom body (vijnanamaya kosha). These layers connect our physical and spiritual selves, acting as a bridge between the material and the mystical.

The Subtle Body & The Chakra System

The subtle body is intricately linked to the chakra system. Chakras are the energy centers that run along the spine, and they govern different aspects of physical, mental, and spiritual health. In the subtle body, prana (life force) moves through thousands of nadis, or energy channels, with the primary nadis being the Ida, Pingala, and Sushumna. These nadis intersect at the chakras, distributing energy throughout the body and influencing how we feel, think, and act. When the subtle body is balanced, prana flows freely through the chakras, promoting vitality and spiritual growth. Blockages in the chakras can cause disruptions in this flow, leading to physical or emotional imbalance.

Characteristics of The Subtle Body

In various yogic and holistic traditions, the subtle body is considered an essential aspect of the ten bodies system. It is a powerful conduit for spiritual wisdom and helps us navigate life with greater ease and clarity. Developing this body allows you to access information beyond the physical senses and make decisions based on more profound inner knowing. It acts as a channel for intuition, helping us to understand life on a deeper, more intuitive level.

Qualities of the Subtle Body:

• Heightened sensitivity to energy fields
• A strong sense of intuition
• Ability to perceive and understand subtle patterns in life
• Deep connection to the spiritual realm
• Clear insight into one’s path and purpose

Balancing Your Subtle Body

When this body is in alignment, you feel deeply connected to your intuition and are more receptive to the energies around you. Balancing the subtle body can help you live in harmony with yourself and others, promoting clarity in decision-making and a strong connection to your inner wisdom.

Signs of Balance:

• You feel deeply connected to your inner guidance.
• Your intuition is sharp, and you trust it in daily life.
• You perceive the energy of situations before acting.
• You move through life with grace and fluidity.
• You easily connect with your spiritual purpose.

Symptoms of Imbalance:

• A sense of disconnection from your inner voice
• Difficulty making decisions
• Overwhelm in new or energetic environments
• Lack of awareness of your energetic body
• Feeling stuck or disconnected from your intuition

How to Access the Subtle Body

Pranayama

One of the most effective ways to awaken the subtle body is through pranayama (breath control). Pranayama directs prana through the energy channels, helping to activate and balance the subtle body. This simple practice can help you tap into your energetic awareness:

1. Sit comfortably with your spine straight.
2. Close your eyes and bring your attention to your breath.
3. Inhale deeply through the nose for a count of four.
4. Hold your breath for a count of four.
5. Exhale slowly for a count of six.
6. Continue this for 5 to 10 minutes, noticing how your awareness deepens as prana flows more freely through your body.

Meditation

Meditation is a powerful tool for connecting with the subtle body. By calming the mind, you can tune into the more refined energies within and around you. This simple meditation is ideal for developing subtle body awareness:

1. Sit comfortably with your hands resting on your knees.
2. Close your eyes and focus on the space between your eyebrows, known as the third eye.
3. Mentally repeat the mantra “Sat Nam” with each inhale and exhale.
4. Focus on the sensation of energy flowing between your mind and heart.
5. Practice this for 11 minutes, allowing your awareness to expand.

Kriya

Kundalini kriyas are sequences of movements and breathwork designed to engage the subtle body. This simple kriya helps to activate the ninth body:

1. Sit in an easy pose with your legs crossed.
2. Place your hands in prayer position at your heart.
3. Chant “Ong Namo Guru Dev Namo” to tune in to your highest self.
4. Engage in gentle spinal flexes, coordinating your breath with the movement.
5. Finish by holding your breath and visualizing prana moving up the spine.

Deepen Your Yoga Practice with East+West

If you’re ready to dive deeper into your understanding of yoga, consider joining East+West’s yoga teacher training. With immersive programs in Bali and Costa Rica, East+West offers a transformative journey that combines ancient wisdom with modern techniques.

To learn more, visit East+West and discover how you can enhance your yoga journey.