Namaste Instructor: Understanding the Importance and Practice of Namaste in Yoga

Namaste instructor, And while it may serve a very specific function in Hinduism and Buddhism, namaste (translated variously as “I bow to you” or “the divine in me honors the divine in you”) has, like yoga itself, transcended its origins to mark countless global interactions as a gesture of respect. The word and the accompanying gesture, called the Anjali Mudra, are ubiquitous in yoga classes, yet their deeper meaning often goes unexplored. As yogis, teachers, and students connect and reconnect through this shared practice, it’s important to see Namaste not simply as a hallway signoff but as a deep sign of connection to one another, to all others, and to the present moment.

The Meaning of “Namaste”

Namaste comes from Sanskrit, an ancient Indian language. It can be divided in two: “Nama” translates as “bow” or ”salute,” and “Te” translates as “to you.” In combination, “Namaste” means “I bow to you” or “I honor you”—a way of expressing profound respect and reverence to someone else. Namaste is primarily used in the context of a yoga practice, yet it also has cultural significance in Hindu and Buddhist communities. It is used as a greeting to elders, teachers, or those that have higher authority in general to demonstrate respect for their wisdom and presence​

Within the scope of yoga, Namaste represents the recognition of the divine light that resides in everyone, promoting connection and humility. For yoga teachers, the word goes beyond being a goodbye; it recognizes the energy, presence, and spirit shared between teacher and student during class.

How Do Yoginins Use Namaste Instructors?

Instructors, for example, deeply incorporate Namaste into both the orchestration of their classes as well as the personal relationships they build. In the West, it’s typically reserved for the end of a yoga practice as a way to bring closure to this experience. Lessons come in many forms, which may be made possible by the presence of others in the physical or spiritual sense, so some instructors will use the phrase “Namaste” to thank those who practice with them. It signals an end to a tangible and metaphorical journey, inviting a pause for reflection and calm​.

Together with the verbal expression of Namaste, the Anjali Mudra, or the gesture of placing the palms together in front of the heart, usually accompanies the said verbal expression. A sacred gesture that signifies stability, alignment, and a reciprocal flow of energy between teacher and student. At an ashram, for example, whenever the instructor says Namaste, students do so as well, in return, which means mutual respect and gratitude​.

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The Gesture of Namaste: Anjali Mudr

The Namaste physical gesture—or Anjali Mudra—is commonly done in conjunction with the word. Anjali Mudra is performed by bringing the palms together in front of your chest with your fingers pointing toward your face. The thumbs press gently into the sternum, and you might reflex. This gesture symbolizes the heart’s center and reminds us to keep the energy at the heart chakra—an energy center of compassion, love, and connection. You are given the opportunity for mind-body synchronization through this simple yet powerful gesture, which creates a silent language all of its own. Whether you do it as a tribute to someone else or as a meditation for yourself, it brings a quality of peace and awareness​

What is the spiritual meaning of namaste?

Although Namaste may sound like a common gesture at the end of a yoga class, its roots run deep spiritually. Yoga is designed to bring together body, mind, and spirit, and Namaste—its actual translation—is a reminder of this connection. As the teacher and student bow and say or make the Namaste gesture, they acknowledge the divine light in each other, becoming oneness. Namaste also symbolizes equality, as it is understood in many spiritual traditions. No matter who you are, where you came from, or how experienced you are, on some level, we are all in this together. This idea, particularly, can be an impressive change in yoga, where the objective is not just actual quality or adaptability, yet a feeling of inward harmony and solidarity​

When Should You Say Namaste?

In the West, Namaste has essentially become a reduced form of thank-you in yoga studios. But elsewhere in South Asia, the word has a more formal definition and is typically preserved for greeting elders or respected people. This all too often leads to the critique of Namaste being the other (largely the global West) taking something from the self (the East) and just “doing” it, which can be viewed as inauthentic and inappropriate.

Yoga practitioners must tread carefully with the use of Namaste. It’s important to use this word appropriately and to understand its context regarding the origin and spiritual significance. In some corners, Namaste can come across as superficial or even performative when thoughtlessly invoked or used solely to indicate the end of class​

Namaste in movie yoga culture

As time passed, the use of Namaste in yoga studios and other wellness spaces became hybridized. In the West, it’s now often considered a spiritual exercise or a token of respect, but others feel it can be corrupted or over-commercialized. For example, terms such as “Namaslay” or “Nama-stay in bed” have taken the term and created schtick around it to show the lightheartedness of the yoga practice, when in essence, it diminishes the true meaning from which its roots were derived. This appropriation of Namaste may lead to cultural loss or appropriation.

This is to say that if you are teaching yoga, you should get on your mat and approach Namaste in the way of true intention and mindfulness. Understanding the word on such a deep level can bring you closer to your students and give credence to the roots of yoga​

So, deal with Namaste respectfully.

Namaste is a strong expression of gratitude, responsibility, and divine consciousness that transcends wearing yoga instructor and practitioner hats. It encourages us to care for one another with kindness, honor, and mindfulness. Namaste is a greeting, a living practice of unity and love. As we move deeper into our yoga practice, let us never forget the meaning of this gesture and embrace the guidance it offers us both on and off the mat through our hearts, words, and actions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the origin of Namaste? Namaste comes from Sanskrit, meaning “I bow to you.” It is used as a sign of respect and acknowledgment of the divine light within each person.

2. How do you perform the Namaste gesture? The Namaste gesture involves placing your palms together in front of your heart and slightly bowing your head. This is known as the Anjali Mudra.

3. Why do yoga instructors say Namaste? Yoga instructors say Namaste to show respect and gratitude for their students’ practice, as well as to close the session in a mindful and respectful manner.

4. Can I use Namaste outside of yoga? Yes, Namaste is often used in everyday greetings in many parts of South Asia. However, it is important to use it respectfully, as it has deep cultural and spiritual significance.

5. What does Namaste symbolize in yoga? In yoga, Namaste symbolizes the recognition of the divine within each person, promoting a sense of oneness and interconnectedness among practitioners.

6. Is Namaste used for just greeting? While Namaste is a greeting, it is also a powerful expression of respect and reverence. It can be used as a way to honor someone, especially teachers or elders.