The concept of the etheric body, also referred to as the vital body or energy body, is a key component in a variety of esoteric, spiritual, and metaphysical traditions. It is known as to be always a subtle counterpart to the physical body, acting as a bridge between the physical and spiritual realms. Unlike the physical body, which consists of dense matter, the etheric body is thought to be made from a greater, more subtle type of energy. This energy is frequently referred to as a luminous field that permeates and surrounds the physical body, extending a couple of inches beyond it. The etheric body is believed to play an essential role in maintaining physical health, as it may be the template or blueprint upon that the physical body is built.

In traditional Chinese medicine, the etheric body is closely linked to the idea of Qi or vital energy. Qi flows through the body's meridians, a network of energy etheric body , to sustain life and health. When the flow of Qi is balanced and unobstructed, the physical body remains healthy. Conversely, blockages or imbalances in the flow of Qi can result in illness. Acupuncture, Tai Chi, and Qigong are practices targeted at regulating and enhancing the flow of Qi within the etheric body to market overall well-being. Similarly, in Ayurveda, the etheric body is linked to the concept of prana, living force that animates all living beings.

The etheric body is often described with regards to chakras and nadis in Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Chakras are energy centers located along the spine, from the bottom to the crown of the pinnacle, each associated with different physical, emotional, and spiritual functions. Nadis are energy channels that carry prana through the body. There are thought to be tens and thousands of nadis, with the three most significant being the Ida, Pingala, and Sushumna. The etheric body is reported to be intricately connected to these energy structures, influencing and being influenced by their states.

In Western esoteric traditions, such as for example Theosophy and Anthroposophy, the etheric body is known as the first layer of the human energy field. In accordance with Theosophists like Annie Besant and C.W. Leadbeater, the etheric body consists of etheric matter, which is finer than physical matter but nonetheless part of the material world. Rudolf Steiner, the founder of Anthroposophy, also emphasized the importance of the etheric body, describing it as the life force that animates the physical form. He thought that the etheric body plays a crucial role in growth, healing, and regeneration.

The etheric body is considered to communicate with the physical body through the endocrine and nervous systems. It is believed that the chakras are connected to the major endocrine glands, and that the flow of energy through the nadis influences the nervous system. This interaction is said to be responsible for the regulation of bodily functions and the maintenance of health. When the etheric body is strong and balanced, it supports the physical body's vitality and resilience. However, when it is weakened or disrupted, it can lead to physical and emotional problems.