Anima is a term that originates from Latin, meaning "soul" or "spirit." In psychology, particularly in the work of Carl Jung, it refers to the feminine inner personality in men. Jung believed that the anima represents the unconscious feminine side, influencing a man's emotions and relationships. In broader contexts, anima can also refer to the life force or essence that animates living beings. This concept is often explored in philosophy and spirituality, where it signifies the vital energy that connects all forms of life, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's inner self and the interconnectedness of existence.