The Meaning of Namaste

The gesture Namaste in simple terms is accepted as a humble greeting straight from the heart and reciprocated accordingly.  It recognizes the equality of all, and pays honor to the sacredness of all.  Namaste represents the belief that there is a divine spark within each of us that is located in the heart chakra.  The gesture is an acknowledgment of the soul in one by the soul in another.  “Nama” means bow, “as” means I, and “te” means you.  Therefore, Namaste literally means “bow me you” or “I bow to you.”

To perform Namaste, we place the hands together at the heart chakra, close the eyes, and bow the head.  It can also be done by placing the hands together in front of the third eye, bowing the head and then bringing the hands down to the heart.  This is an especially deep form of respect.  Although in the West the word “Namaste” is usually spoken in conjunction with the gesture, in India, it is understood that the gesture itself signifies Namaste, and therefore, it is unnecessary to say the word while bowing.

Namaste allows individuals to come together energetically to a place of connection and timelessness, free from the bonds of ego-connection.  It is usually done at the end of the Yoga class because the mind is less active and the energy in the room is more peaceful.  The teacher initiates Namaste as a symbol of gratitude and respect toward his or her students and past teachers and in return invites the students to connect with their teacher and allow the truth to flow - the truth that we are all one when we live from the heart.