What is the Meaning of Namaste?It’s easy to think you already know the answer to this question. Namaste is the most common word used amongst us Yogis as we move within our practice. However, understanding where the word originated and why it’s used can help you get a clear picture of the spiritual connection the word is meant for.Namaste associates with the heart chakra, symbolizing the belief that there is a divine light within each of us.
Acknowledging this light in another allows both souls to connect in the purest form of spirituality.Placing both hands together at heart's center, you remind the space and souls around you of the good energy and intention set forth in your practice. Bringing both hands to your forehead or third eye, you bow and thank your instructor and those around you for their energy and in turn respecting and acknowledging the divine light within their souls.Let’s break this definition down shall we?“My soul honors your soul.”Acknowledging the divine light in another soul by honoring that individual and bowing your head in thankfulness of their energy. This generates the spiritual connection in which the word was meant for.“I honor the place in you where the entire universe resides.”Generating the spiritual connection between both souls, you are indisputably transferring positive vibrations between one another as you each receive the gesture. You are honoring and aligning each other’s heart chakras.“I honor the light, love, truth, beauty and peace within you, because it is also within me.”Exchanging nothing but good energy as your heart chakras align, you are accepting not only the light, love, truth, beauty and peace within the other person but are also honoring those qualities in yourself. As you bow to each other, you are not only meant to give but are also meant to receive as well.“In sharing these things we are united, we are the same, we are one.”Bonding through the acknowledgement that your souls both share a divine light, reflecting light, love, truth, beauty and peace. Both of your souls are valued.
Therefore, Namaste literally means 'bowing to you'. In Hinduism, it also has a spiritual import reflecting the belief that 'the divine and self (atman, soul) is same.
Both of your souls are loved. Both of your souls are equal.Namaste is also meant to reflect the essence and practice of taking the person you create on the mat.with you off the mat as well.
This spiritual execution is one of the hardest to embrace within your journey. To me, I know one has developed into this phase once they are internally and externally joyful. Their soul can no longer become affected by the negatively brought to it. The hard experiences and tragedies are accepted and praised for their direction, lesson and strength. They are at peace with themselves and the world around them.