the Panchakosha model, into contemporary physical education and wellbeing practices. The study is motivated

by the limitations of modern education systems, which often prioritize academic achievement over holistic

development, thereby neglecting physical vitality, emotional balance, and spiritual fulfillment. The primary

objective is to critically explore how the five sheaths of the Panchakosha—Annamaya (physical), Pranamaya

(vital energy), Manomaya (mental), Vijnanamaya (intellectual), and Anandamaya (bliss)—can provide a

comprehensive framework to enrich modern pedagogical approaches. The research employs an interdisciplinary

methodology, drawing from education, psychology, philosophy, and Ayurveda to conduct a theoretical analysis

of the Panchakosha framework and its intersections with empirical studies in physical education and wellbeing.

The results demonstrate a profound alignment: Annamaya Kosha is nurtured through physical fitness and

nutrition; Pranamaya through breathwork and mindful movement; Manomaya through emotional regulation and

Sheath), Pranamaya Kosha (Vital Energy Sheath), Manomaya Kosha (Mental Sheath), Vijnanamaya Kosha

In recent years, there has been an increasing global acknowledgment of the significance of holistic education,

which not only cultivates intellectual development but also promotes physical fitness and emotional wellbeing

(Miller, 2019). This recognition underpins the imperative need to integrate traditional epistemologies, which

have in the past emphasized interconnectedness among the mind, body, and spirit (Tilak, 2020). In this sense,

the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) is extremely important due to its vast collection of spiritual revelations,

in Saraswati, 2002). Each of these sheaths plays a significant role in the development of the health and wellness

of an individual. The Panchakosha framework, despite its profound insights, has a significant lacuna in terms of

its application within contemporary educational paradigms, especially in relation to physical education and

wellbeing. Its holistic dimensions, as manifested in the Panchakosha, are often overlooked by the modern

educational system, which tends to focus on academic achievements and cognitive development (Sharma &

This research paper attempts to fill this gap by exploring the integration of physical education and wellbeing

principles emanating from the Panchakosha into modern educational practice. By integrating ancient Indian

wisdom with modern scientific input, this study aims to demonstrate how methodologies based on the

Panchakosha can offer several advantages in fostering holistic health and wellbeing among learners (Saraswati,

of the profound intersections between the ancient wisdom of the Panchakosha and the contemporary need for

holistic education and wellbeing. It is hoped that the present study will contribute to the ongoing discourse on

reimagining education in ways that respect the full spectrum of human potential and promote the flourishing of

Physical education (PE) assumes a pivotal function in enhancing holistic well-being by promoting physical

engagement, cultivating healthy behaviors, and facilitating social and emotional growth. It serves as a key

determinant in nurturing overall health by addressing physical, mental, and social dimensions of wellness (World

Health Organization [WHO], 2020). The following delineates the contributions of physical education to overall

Physical Fitness: Physical education courses afford students the opportunity to participate in a variety of physical

emotional stability. Involvement in PE can alleviate stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms through the release

of endorphins, which are endogenous substances that elevate mood. Furthermore, PE classes furnish students

with the means to cultivate resilience, self-esteem, and adaptive coping mechanisms through collaborative

Lifelong Habits: Physical education fosters the establishment of enduring practices associated with physical

activity and wholesome living. By imparting the significance of regular exercise and movement from an early

age, PE classes assist students in creating healthy routines that can be sustained throughout their lives, thereby

Social Skills: PE classes create environments conducive to student interaction with peers in a nurturing and

inclusive context. Through team sports, collaborative games, and collective activities, students acquire vital

substance misuse, and detrimental habits, thereby empowering students to make informed choices that bolster

The concept of Panchakosha, or the five sheaths, is derived from ancient Indian philosophical literature referred

to as the Upanishads, which are integral to the Vedanta tradition. These texts delve into the essence of existence,

consciousness, and the self. The Panchakosha framework delineates the strata or sheaths that surround the true

self, identified as Atman, and signify various dimensions of human existence (Saraswati, 2002; Paijwar, Awasthi,

Annamaya Kosha (Physical Sheath): The outermost layer, Annamaya Kosha, symbolizes the physical body. By

promoting physical fitness, health, and well-being via activities like exercise, sports, and nutrition, physical

education directly relates to Annamaya Kosha. The foundation of holistic well-being is a healthy physical body

emotional regulation, and cognitive function. Engaging in physical activities can alleviate stress, enhance mood,

Vijnanamaya Kosha (Intellectual Sheath): Vijnanamaya Kosha signifies intellect, wisdom, and discernment.

Physical education promotes intellectual development by imparting knowledge regarding anatomy, physiology,

biomechanics, and nutrition. Comprehending the scientific underpinnings of physical activity empowers

Anandamaya Kosha (Blissful Sheath): This innermost layer represents the state of bliss or joy that arises from

deep connection and satisfaction. Physical education and wellness practices can induce feelings of joy,

fulfillment, and connectedness by promoting activities that provide pleasure, enable flow experiences, and

philosophy. Among these, the Annamaya Kosha and Pranamaya Kosha are most directly associated with

The integration of Annamaya Kosha, representing the physical sheath, within the domains of physical education

and holistic wellbeing underscores the critical significance of fostering the corporeal form through various

Nutrition Education: Students can be instructed on the pivotal role of balanced dietary practices, highlighting the

advantages of whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, proteins, and healthy fats. Teaching portion control, meal

Physical Fitness Activities: A well-designed physical education curriculum incorporating activities like running,

swimming, yoga, Pilates, strength training, and team sports can significantly improve cardiovascular fitness,

Regular physical activity is proven to reduce the risk of chronic illnesses and premature death (Warburton &

Bredin, 2006) and is endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO, 2020) for its wide-ranging health

Comprehensive Holistic Wellness Approach: Programs integrating physical activity with emotional regulation,

stress management, and interpersonal skill development nurture lifelong habits of health and balance. This

By embedding the principles of Annamaya Kosha into physical education and wellbeing curricula, individuals

cultivate an understanding of how lifestyle choices and physical practices influence their overall health and

vitality. This methodology nurtures lifelong dedication to holistic wellness and empowers individuals to make

The Pranamaya Kosha, recognized as the vital sheath, emphasizes the regulation of life energy (prana) through

Emotional Regulation Skills: Instruct students in methodologies for emotional regulation and stress management

including deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness exercises. For example, a study found

to augment students’ feelings of belonging, connection, and emotional wellness. Participation in team sports,

group exercises, and collaborative activities affords opportunities for cooperation, communication, and

Mindfulness and Meditation Practices: Embed mindfulness and meditation practices into physical education

curricula to assist students in fostering present-moment awareness, concentration, and cognitive clarity. Studies

Through the integration of Manomaya Kosha principles into PE and wellness programmes, individuals may

Health Literacy: Promotion of health literacy is essential — equipping individuals with the knowledge and

competencies to evaluate, interpret, and utilise health information to enhance their physical and mental

Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Competencies: Integrate problem-solving and decision-making into PE

curricula by presenting authentic scenarios and case studies relevant to health, fitness, and wellness. Students

evaluate situations, consider diverse perspectives, and formulate actionable plans to tackle health-related

necessitates the promotion of joy, fulfilment, and a profound sense of connection with oneself and others through