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Significance of Anima

Anima, in Vaishnavism, refers to the mystic perfection that allows an individual to become infinitesimally small or reduce their size to smaller than the smallest particle. It is considered one of the eight Siddhis, or spiritual powers, reflecting a mastery over physical form through practices such as Yoga. This power is also associated with Prakriti-devi and represents a significant aspect of spiritual attainment, showcasing the ability to manifest control over one’s own physical existence.1
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Synonyms: Soul, Spirit, Essence, Psyche, Life force, Inner self

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Anima'

Hinduism Books

Anima in Hinduism is a significant mystical power among the Siddhis, enabling individuals to become infinitesimal, showcasing mastery over physical form and representing the perfection of minuteness achieved through spiritual practices.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)

(1) A specific mystic power that allows a person to become infinitesimal or extremely small, one of the siddhis, or spiritual powers.[1] (2) the power of becoming infinitesimally small; one of the mystic perfections that the sages experience in their spiritual state.[2] (3) One of the mystic perfections associated with Prakriti-devi that allows for the power of becoming infinitely small, which Shri Gopa-kumara chose not to accept.[3] (4) A specific type of mystic power, perhaps linked to the ability to become very small or light.[4]

From: Chaitanya Bhagavata

(1) One of the mystic perfections that allows one to become smaller than the smallest.[5] (2) One of the mystic perfections that allows a person to reduce their size to smaller than the smallest.[6]

From: Bhajana-Rahasya

(1) the mystic perfection of being able to become small like a particle.[7]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu�).

Significance in Vedanta (school of philosophy):
Vedanta Books

From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)

(1) Anima is one of the eight superhuman powers, specifically denoting the capacity to become as small as an atom.[8]

From: Thirty minor Upanishads

(1) Anima is a specific type of siddhi that grants the yogin the ability to become as small as an atom, manifesting the control over physical forms.[9]

Vedanta refers to a school of orthodox Hindu philosophy (astika), drawing its subject-matter from the Upanishads. There are a number of sub-schools of Vedanta, however all of them expound on the basic teaching of the ultimate reality (brahman) and liberation (moksha) of the individual soul (atman).