Material or gross sheath of the soul; the physical body. (SSS Vol.1, p. Glossary)
The Annamaya kosha (physical sheath) must be purified by good, clean, pure food. (SSS Vol.2)
What does Annamaya mean?
This body grew in the womb of the mother with the help of the Anna or food taken by the mother. Besides, even after birth, it has grown and is being sustained by food alone. After death, it becomes part of the earth which produces food. So it is called Annamaya. Annamaya kosha is the sthula deha, the gross body, which suffers grief and exults in joy.It is also called ‘Bhogaayatana.’