What does Namaste mean?
This is a fairly standard question, but one which a lot of people are embarrassed to ask since the word gets tossed around so frequently these days. So here is a simple explanation of Namaste.
Namaste is a form of greeting or salutation, which, literally translated means ‘I bow to you.’ When spoken to another person, it is commonly accompanied by a slight bow made with hands pressed together, palms touching and fingers pointed upwards, in front of the chest (prayer position). The higher the hands, the more reverence and respect shown. The gesture can also be performed wordlessly and carry the same meaning. Yoga students generally repeat namaste at the end of a yoga session to express appreciation for sharing and growing together.
Namaste
I honor the place in you
in which the entire universe dwells
I honor the place in you
which is of love, of truth
of light, and of peace
When you are in that place in you
and I am in that place in me
We are one.
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so simple, yet so profound.
In our ChildLight Yoga kids classes, we used a couple of great definitions for Namaste to help each child understand this sacred greeting.
“The Light in Me Sees The Light in You” was great for older kids, and “I see the goodness in your heart” easily translated to the little ones.
What a wonderful word to reach all ages!
NAMASTE