Shocking Revelation: The Real Reason Why Say Namaste After Yoga

Yoga class is often a place where I usually find myself contorted into positions I never imagined possible, surrounded by people who seem equally stunned by the direction of their own limbs.

But despite all the twisted poses and awkward moments, there’s one thing that always feels so serene at the end of class: when we all murmur “Namaste.”

I’d like to take you on a journey to unravel the mysteries behind why we say “Namaste” after yoga, a bit of humor and silliness, and a genuine curiosity about this beautiful tradition.

Our Quest Begins: What’s Up with “Namaste”?

So, there I was, sprawled on my yoga mat, beads of sweat dripping gently down my forehead…..ok it was coming off by the bucket load.

Our instructor, a wise and kind hippie soul, folded her hands, bowed her head and said, “Namaste.”

The word hung in the air, and I couldn’t help wondering, “What on Earth does that mean?”

I’d been coming to yoga for almost two years and this thought had crossed my mind many times, but then I grabbed my yoga mat and headed off, forgetting about my question again until next session.

I believe that yoga class isn’t just about physical contortions; it’s also a place where I hope to discover and develop some spiritual depths.

“Namaste,” I thought, must be the gateway to some deep cosmic wisdom, or at least, the secret to understanding those super flexible yogis I watch with envy.

Let’s Break it Down

First, let’s break down the word.

“Namaste” originates from the Sanskrit language, this is a classic language of India and of course the holy grail for yoga enthusiasts worldwide.

The word itself is a combination of two Sanskrit terms: “Nama,” meaning ‘bow,’ and “Te,” which translates to ‘you.’

So, there we have it, “Namaste” means ‘I bow to you.‘

Now, this got me thinking: why on Earth would anyone want to bow to sweaty, strangers in a yoga class?

The only reasonable explanation seemed to be a secret cult that worships the yoga mat, and “Namaste” is our code word.

Wikipedia says that “Namaste is used as a respectful form of greeting, acknowledging and welcoming a relative, guest or stranger. In some contexts, namaste is used by one person to express gratitude for assistance offered or given, and to thank the other person for his or her generous kindness”.

The Spiritual Salutation

Once I researched a bit deeper, I discovered that “Namaste” isn’t a cult code word, but a beautiful and spiritual salutation.

It’s a way to honor the divine spark within each individual.

You’re not just bowing to the people in the room; you’re bowing to their essence, their soul, their divine being.

In a world that often emphasizes differences and divisions, “Namaste” is a gentle reminder that we are all connected and share a universal spirit, whether we’re the “yoga guru” or the one who can’t touch their toes.

The Cosmic Connection

The more I thought about the word and it’s meaning, I realized that “Namaste” is kind of the yoga version of a cosmic high-five.

It’s a gesture of mutual respect, an acknowledgment that we are all on this spiritual journey together.

Whether you’ve nailed that headstand or face-planted into your neighbor’s mat, the idea behind “Namaste” remains strong.

It’s the great equalizer that says, “Hey, we’re all human, and we’re all here trying to find some peace in this chaos called life.”

Namaste: Bringing People Together, One Yoga Class at a Time

As I checked into the practice of “Namaste” more, I discovered that it’s not just about one person but about creating unity among all of us who practice yoga.

It’s a moment of togetherness that unites the class, transcending differences of age, gender, race, and background.

It’s a word that fosters a sense of community, as we collectively bow and connect with the shared intention of finding peace, health, and well-being.

The Playful Side of “Namaste”

Now, here’s where the humor comes into play.

You know that moment when you’re in a yoga class, and you’re supposed to be all zen and spiritual, but your stomach lets out a loud growl that could rival a bear’s?

Well, I’m here to tell you that “Namaste” is the perfect cover-up for these bodily indiscretions.

Just as you’re about to release an atomic-level “om,” you gracefully blend it into an extended “Namaste.”

Trust me; it works like a charm. It’s the yoga class equivalent of saying, “My stomach is just greeting your soul with a high-five.”

“Namaste” Beyond the Mat

“Namaste” doesn’t stay confined to the four corners of our yoga mat either; it extends beyond the place you meet to practice your yoga.

It’s a versatile term that we can use as a greeting or a farewell.

It’s a way of saying, “I honor the divine in you” in everyday life, not just during the final savasana.

So, if you ever find yourself stuck in a traffic jam, you can simply look at the car next to you and offer a mental “Namaste.”

Of course, do this with a friendly smile, not a raised middle finger…… that’s a totally different form of yoga altogether.

“Namaste” – A Beautiful Tradition of Unity and Respect

In my search to understand “Namaste,” I found a word that goes way beyond just a definition.

It’s a word that captures the essence of yoga and the journey of self-discovery – what a beautiful thing that is.

“Namaste” is a wonderful tradition that fosters unity, respect, and a sense of togetherness in the yoga community.

Whether you’re a experienced yogi or a newbie trying not to tip over in Tree Pose, “Namaste” is a reminder that we’re all connected, we’re all human, and we’re all striving to find inner peace and balance.

So, the next time you roll up your yoga mat, remember the power of “Namaste.”

It’s not just a word; it’s a cosmic high-five, a salute to the divine spark within us all, and a reminder that the journey to inner peace is one we all share.

“Namaste,” my fellow yogis, “Namaste.”

Shocking Revelation: The Real Reason Why Say Namaste After Yoga