In the world of yoga the term ‘Namaste’ has an important role to play in any yoga practice. We have all heard these words at the end of a yoga class, but what does it actually mean? Originally Namaste is an ancient Sanskrit (Indian language) greeting still used regularly in India, representing the belief that we are all made from the same one divine consciousness. Knowing that the divine is within each of us, and the source of this is located in the heart chakra. In India the gesture of bringing the palms together at heart centre itself signifies Namaste, in the western yoga tradition we tend to speak the words out loud.
According to the yoga journal the translation of Namaste literally means “bow me you” or “i bow to you” put together from
Nama: bow
as: I
te: you
In the Yoga tradition, Namaste is related to your own divinity and recognizing the divinity in others. After a yoga class performing this gesture or Mudra energetically joins the teacher and students together, connecting with each other and letting go of the ego. The teacher shows with Namaste their deep respect and gratitude towards their students and their own teachers simultaneously. In return they invite everybody to connect with themselves, understanding the truth that we are all one if we live from the heart. Performing Anjali Mudra and reciting Namaste is also a good technique to feel a deeper connection with your heart chakra and to stay focused during meditating.
Normally the gesture of Namaste should be done both at the beginning and in the end of class. Most teachers tend to do it just in the end of class since the mind is more still after practicing yoga and the energy in the room appears more peaceful.
From the various interpretations of Namaste, the most meaningful for me is “When you are in that place of peace in you and i am in that place of peace in me we are one” So lets bring the hands together in Anjali mudra in front of our heart, close our eyes, slightly bow our head and surrender to the divine in our heart… Namaste!
