What Does Namaste Mean In Yoga?

The word “namaste” is often uttered by yoga practitioners and it has a special meaning. But what does namaste mean in yoga?

The literal translation of the Sanskrit phrase “namaste” is “I bow to you.” When you say namaste to someone, it is a sign of respect. You are recognizing the divine light within them. It is also a way of saying hello and goodbye.

In addition, when you say namaste, you are acknowledging that the other person is a part of you.

Definition of Namaste When Used in Yoga

Definition of Namaste When Used in Yoga

Namaste is a Sanskrit word that can be translated to mean “I bow to you.” It’s an expression of gratitude and respect. When your yoga instructor says “namaste” at the end of class, they acknowledge your effort and thank you for being there. 

Namaste is also often used as a greeting. When you meet someone, you can say “namaste” as a way of saying “hello” or “thank you.” 

In yoga, namaste is often used as a gesture of thanksgiving after completing a pose or meditation. It’s also used to thank the teacher for their instruction and guidance. 

How to Use Namaste Properly? (With Examples)

Most people know the word “namaste” as a greeting or salutation. It’s commonly used in yoga classes to show respect to the teacher and fellow students. But did you know that there are many different ways to use namaste?

Namaste as a Greeting 

As mentioned above, namaste is often used as a greeting in yoga settings and in general.

It can be used as a simple hello or goodbye, or it can be used to show appreciation for someone.

For example, you might say namaste to your yoga teacher at the end of class to thank them for their time and effort. 

Namaste can also be used to show gratitude for something someone has done for you. For example, if a friend goes out of their way to help you, you might say “namaste” to express your thanks. 

Namaste as an Expression of Admiration 

In addition to being a greeting, namaste can also be used as an expression of admiration. If you see someone do something impressive, you might say namaste to express your admiration for their achievement. 

Namaste can also be used when admiring someone’s character traits.

For example, if you know someone who is always kind and compassionate, you might say namaste to express your admiration for their good qualities. 

Namaste as a Sign of Respect 

Namaste is also often used as a sign of respect. If you meet someone who you admire or look up to, you might say namaste to show your respect for them.

Namaste can also be used to show respect for someone’s culture or beliefs.

For example, if you are meeting someone from a different culture for the first time, you might say namaste to show your respect for their culture. 

The Yoga Teacher’s Dilemma: To Say Namaste or Not to Say Namaste?

We often say it at the end of our yoga practice as a gesture of thanks and respect to our teachers. But have you ever noticed that some yoga teachers don’t say namaste at the end of class.

There are a few reasons why some yoga teachers may choose not to say namaste.

The first reason is that namaste is a Hindi word, and not all yoga teachers are Hindu. While the vast majority of Hindus today live in India, there are Hindus all over the world, including in the West where yoga is most popular.

So, for a non-Hindu yoga teacher, saying namaste can feel like appropriating a culture that is not their own. 

Another reason some yoga teachers may not say namaste is that they feel it’s more important to lead by example than by words.

A good yoga practice is about being present in the moment and being mindful of your actions.

Saying namaste at the end of class can be seen as an opportunity to lead by example and show your students how to be present and mindful. 

Finally, some yoga teachers may simply not like saying namaste because it feels forced or insincere.

If a teacher doesn’t resonate with the word or the concept, then they probably won’t want to say it.

And that’s perfectly okay! There are other ways to show gratitude to your students without using the word namaste. 

Conclusion: 

As you can see, there are many different ways to use the word namaste.

Whether you’re looking for a way to show respect or appreciation, or you want to express admiration for someone’s achievements, namaste is the perfect word to use.

So next time you’re not sure what to say, try using namaste and see how it changes the conversation!