Is it okay to say Namaste?

“Namaste” is a combination of words derived from Sanskrit that mean “I bow to you.” It is a noncontact form of greeting, as opposed to hugging or shaking hands. A good idea these days! This expression of greeting is accompanied by the gesture of joining two palms together, placing them at the heart level and bowing one’s head while saying namaste.

Namaste also has a spiritual focus, it recognises the spiritual being in all of us. It is a way to connect with another with an idea of oneness, a way or respecting another persons inner soul.

Namaste is an expression of reverence, respect, humility and unity: the essential qualities in every human interaction.

So, saying “Namaste” at the end of a Yoga class is fine, but should be used with an understanding of it’s deep and reverent meaning.