The word 'Namaste' comes from the Sanskrit word namah te. Namaste is pronounced Nam-a-stay. In Sanskrit namah means "bow, obeisance, reverential salutation, adoration". Te is the durative of the personal pronoun tvam, "you". A literal translation of the word, Namaste (namah te) is thus "reverential salutation to you."

I use it and intend its meaning to be, “I bow to the divine in you”.

It is commonly accompanied by a slight bow made with the hands pressed together, palms touching, in front of the chest in a position that is commonly called, the prayer position, and which I call the “Gassho” position.

The Gassho position is used extensively by Reiki Masters before and after attunements as well as during healing work.

There are times when I assume the Gassho position during a call to prayer, when I am enveloped in what I can only describe as the wings of angels. No matter how I am feeling prior to this, I find myself feeling balanced and refreshed afterwards.

Give time to say Namaste to life several times a day. You will find the benefits are enormous!

Namaste!
Judith