Vignanamaya Kosha is non-physical but related to the physical. Vishesh Gnana or vignana means extraordinary knowledge or knowledge of that which is beyond the sense perceptions. This is the etheric body. It is a transitory body — a transition from the physical to the non-physical. It is neither physical nor non-physical. It is like a link between the two.
An ancient Jain practice of progressively fasting to death.
A Yogic practice where one ends one’s life by burying oneself or immersing oneself in water.
Beyond the three states of waking, dreaming, and sleeping. A transcendental state of awareness and bliss.
Sacred, consecrated ash. Applied to different parts of the body, makes one more sensitive to subtle life forces. Application to the upper chakras activates the chakras and makes them more receptive. Some sects of Shaivites also smear vibhuthi all over the body to sensitize the system and ward off cold.
Literally purification. A basic component of spiritual life.
One who has attained perfection or mastery over a certain mystical aspect of life