Tuesday, February 5, 2013

To "Namaste" or not to "Namaste", that is the question

"Namaste" "Namaste"

Thank you Tamiko for the inspiration on this  ...


Always getting the most honest input from the best of friends, keeps your ear to the ground on what folks may be thinking and saying.
A common recurring theme from both classes I have lead as well as attended, is whether or not it is favorable to bring "Namaste" along with other cultural, even spiritual aspects into the classroom.  There are quite a few that opt to not even attend a yoga class, concerned that they will be asked to repeat words, chants that does not honor their own authentic voice.  On the other hand, there are those who seek out classes for their Eastern spiritual component.  So what should a teacher do ... it could be as simple as listening to their most authentic voice and leading class accordingly.
Some class participants may naively be lead into places they do not want to go and as teachers we are to wisely handle the weight of responsibility, providing a safe place for all.  As part of the instructor's duty, it may become essential to restrain themselves, unless the theme of the class is clearly stated.  Yoga has become mainstream and the benefits are increasingly available to all, no matter the age, race, religious faith, etc.
The balancing act remains, where we challenge ourselves in learning new things while we retain integrity with our own desires and limitations.  Yogic philosophy would state that there ought to be no judgement toward oneself or others, when seeking to practice and find the adequate place for the mind, body and spirit to be itself.
The meaning alone of "Namaste" may or may not be said authentically by many.  It insinuates the following:  "I salute (bow) to the divine (god) within you."  The definition may vary from nation to nation, and may be used as a more casual greeting in some places than others.
It is up to the practitioner to explore the deeper meanings of this Yogic vocabulary and see how congruent it is with their philosophy.  As Yoga teachers, our goals must remain pure in providing the safest and most well-rounded yoga experience for our participants.  It is not a platform  from which we preach a particular agenda, unless clearly specified.

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