Yoga allows us to dig deeper into ourselves, reflect on our intentions and the reasons behind these intentions. Yoga helps us understand ourselves better and how we deal with the world. In the spirit of Yoga, understanding the commonly used word ‘Namaste’ which simplifies the nature of Yoga in just one word, will enhance our understanding of Yoga itself and give meaning to the word Namaste every time we plan on saying it in the future.

We have all heard Namaste at the beginning of our Yoga classes. This word in the Sanskrit language nuh-mas-tay defines yoga and it’s spiritual traditions in a word. Namaste represents the essence of unity, oneness and an understanding of reality. Nama means to bow, as means I, and te means you, all translating to “I bow to you”. The gesture of Namaste means a belief that there is a divine spark within all of us located at the heart chakra. Through this gesture, the soul acknowledges another soul. Namaste allows individuals to energetically be in a place of connection, free from the ego consciousness. If there is deep emotion in the heart and mind liberated, it can lead to the oneness between souls to blossom.

Namaste believes that all are one, although the outside may appear different and make us think we are all different, but we are all the same. By greeting someone Namaste you are saying that you see them as they are. Namaste means you identify with the all-are-one-consciousness rather than the ego consciousness. Ego makes you believe that you are either superior or inferior to any other person. Namaste on the basic level means respect but now we know it has a much deeper meaning. After all, if you’re truly living yoga, it’s important to be aware of your actions and words. Every time we use the word and gesture Namaste, we perform a piece of yogic wisdom.