Have you wondered why some yoga teachers don’t say Namaste at the end of a yoga class?
If so, you’re not the only one.
Read on to discover some possible explanations.
Of course, you can always also ask your yoga teacher or instructor directly. 😉
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Why Some Yoga Teachers Don’t Say or Have Stopped Saying Namaste to Close
If you follow me on Instagram, you may have read my post where I explained that I learned to say Namaste at the end classes in my various teacher trainings, workshops, and classes over the years.
I’ve previously used it to close classes and to say goodbye, even on social media. Well, that’s because it’s what I was taught. What I learned. What everyone seemed to do. And it seemed, oh, so, incredibly authentic.
There’s something so yogi-like about saying Namaste.
Honestly, I can rarely get enough of the word. Though I know it makes some people cringe.
But not all yoga teachers say Namaste at the end of classes. And many yoga teachers have stopped using the word at the end of classes. Or saying Namaste altogether.
Here’s Why… or What Might Be Going on Behind Namaste
If you’re wondering why some yoga teachers do or don’t use Namaste to end a class, this might give a little bit of insight. It’s not a comprehensive explanation. Only a glimmer of insight or perspective I’ve observed.
I appreciate that there are differences in interpretations of usage. I appreciate that there are different views, including those who believe in the distinction between tradition and modern spinoffs.
I appreciate that to some, Namaste has it’s own personal meaning to their own practices. And that to some the word is a word that associates inspiration and connection. One of my favorite online yoga teachers closes her yoga classes with Namaste, and while another favorite teacher does not, it doesn’t mean I value one teaching any less or another more. For me, the word, any time, any place, brings me a brief moment of pause–comfort.
As yoga teachers and humans, our words do matter. They’ve always mattered. Thinking about our word choices isn’t political or a new thing. Choosing our words carefully isn’t trendy. Rather, caring about our words or where they come from, well, that’s a human and loving kind of thing.
Reasons Why Your Teacher Might Not Say Namaste
1. Cultural Appreciation or Cultural Appropriation
Some yoga teachers consider Namaste a respectful greeting in its root culture. Some choose not to use it to finish or wrap up a yoga class because they don’t believe it’s a departing expression.
One translation of Namaste is that it means “I bow to you” or “greetings to you.” Yoga teachers sometimes point out that it doesn’t make sense to close a class with the equivalent of “hello” or “welcome.” Others think using it at the end of a class does not honor its sacred, cultural, or intended use.
2. Pronunciation
One reason yoga teachers might not say Namaste is because of pronunciation. Seriously. No joke here. Language isn’t easy for everyone, especially when you factor into second, third, or non-native languages. Not to mention accents or regional dialects. To some, just saying the word makes them uneasy or self-conscious.
Consider that your teachers might not be say Namaste because the word just doesn’t flow easily or feel comfortable on their lips.
3. Spiritual Connection
Some yoga teachers or yoga instructors may choose not to say Namaste because of the type of class, environment, students, or a teacher’s views on spirituality.
For example, a teacher may want a yoga class at the “gym” to focus exclusively on physical fitness. A teacher may also want a class to seem inclusive and avoid using the word for fear it could be misinterpreted or misunderstood as religion or prayer. Still others may think the word Namaste could make a class too cringey, cliche, or “out there” for a particular audience, place, time, or yoga presentation.
NEED HELP NAMING A YOGA CLASS? Read How to Name Your Yoga Class So It Sells Out.
Share Your Thoughts
How do you feel about the word Namaste and saying it at the end of classes? Share your thoughts in a comment below or DM me on IG.
