New to yoga? Don’t let words like “Om” and “Namaste” keep you away.
Many of my clients are confused but curious about the things I understand about yoga, gained from my decades of practice and training in yoga and yoga therapy. They wonder about the significance of Oms, saying Namaste, and hearing about Gods and Goddesses. I often ponder the questions: Is yoga a religion? Is it a cult? Does it involve worshipping a statue? Or is it about worshipping the light within ourselves? And do I need to chant and pray every time I attend a class?
Whether you are new to practicing yoga at a studio or you are an experienced yoga teacher, asking the right questions is important. It is essential for both beginners and veterans to analyze the rituals that differ from one class to another. This will help us understand our preferences and tastes, and make informed decisions that will benefit our individual journeys. Rather than judging these rituals, we should seek to understand their meanings so that we can choose the ones that will be most helpful to us.
If you're considering trying out yoga but feel intimidated by its perceived spirituality or lack of familiarity with the practice, it might be helpful to understand some of the rituals commonly associated with yoga. Keep in mind that these rituals can have varied interpretations depending on the specific teacher and lineage.
Om
Om, also known as Aum, is considered to be the oldest of mantras and represents the primordial sound that encompasses all vibrations in the universe. The sound of Om signifies the beginning, the middle, and the end or destruction of all phases and cycles. Many yoga instructors use the sound of Om at the start and end of a class to unite everyone. Chanting a mantra or a word reminds us that we are all together in this process and helps us to become more aware of the vibrations within and take deeper breaths.
Namaste
Namaste is a greeting that originated in the Indian subcontinent. It is a way of saying hello or goodbye, while also acknowledging the divine within each of us. The word "Namaste" can be accompanied by a slight bow and bringing the palms together, but these gestures are not necessary. The essence of the greeting lies in the intention behind it and the message of recognizing the pure bright light within each of us.