OM OM is a sacred symbol and an ancient mantra or chant pronounced AUM representing the infinite Brahma, the absolute or all, which conveys omniscience (all-encompassing knowledge), omnipresence (always present everywhere) and omnipotence (all-powerfulness). It is believed to be the basic sound of the universe, the cosmic vibration and contains all other sounds. When repeated correctly it penetrates all and creates harmony and unity with all that exists – with mind, body and spirit and that to all others.In honor of Yogic tradition we begin and close many of our classes with chanting OM to create harmony and unity among the students and teacher.
Namaste Namaste is used throughout the world as a greeting or goodbye, generally taken as an expression of good will, gratitude and respect. It recognizes the equality of all, honors the sacredness, truthfulness and interconnection of all (for we are all one when we are truly living from our heart center and free from ego), as well as to the source of that interconnection.Placing both hands together at the chest (heart center) or at the forehead (3rd eye center) is the gesture or mudra most commonly used when bowing to each other in Namaste. One hand represents the spiritual or higher realm the other represents the earthly self. By combining the two, the person making the gesture is attempting to rise above their differences with others, and connect themselves to the person they bow to. The bow is a symbolic bow of love and respect.
Namaste can also mean any of the following: - The Spirit in me meets or honors the same Spirit in you. - I greet that place where you and I are one. - I salute the Light of God in you. - I bow to the divine in you. - I recognize that within each of us is a place where Divinity dwells, and when we are in that place, we are one. - My higher energy salutes your higher energy. - The God in me sees and honors the God in you. - May the God within you, bless you. - The Divine within me sees and honors the Divine within you.
