Why Do Yoga Teachers Not Say "Namaste"?

If you’ve taken classes in different studios or online platforms, you may have noticed something surprising:

Some yoga teachers end class with “namaste,” and others intentionally do not.

This choice isn’t random. It’s thoughtful, informed, and deeply connected to cultural respect, authenticity, and the evolution of modern yoga spaces.

At Lotus River Wellness (LRW), where cultural integrity, accessibility, and trauma-sensitivity anchor our training, students often ask “Why do some yoga teachers avoid using the word ‘namaste’ at the end of class?

“Namaste” Has Deep Cultural and Linguistic Roots

In its original context, namaste is a traditional South Asian greeting rooted in Hindi and Sanskrit. It is not inherently spiritual, nor is it exclusive to yoga.

In India and Nepal, it is commonly used as:

• hello

• goodbye

• a gesture of respect

• a non-physical greeting

In Western yoga, however, the term has been transformed into something else entirely: a ceremonial ending to class that doesn’t match its everyday cultural use.

Many teachers choose not to say “namaste” because they want to honor its origins rather than participate in a Westernized reinterpretation.

It Can Be Mispronounced or Used Inaccurately

Many teachers avoid “namaste” because:

• it’s often pronounced incorrectly

• it’s taught without context

• it’s used as a catch-all spiritual word rather than its actual meaning

• it’s presented as “the only authentic way” to close a yoga class

For educators who value cultural accuracy, this feels misaligned.

Just as LRW teaches respect for yogic philosophy and lineage, the way we use language must also reflect care and understanding.

Concerns Around Cultural Appropriation

Cultural appropriation happens when symbols, traditions, or language from one culture are used without understanding, or are commercialized, aestheticized, or stripped of their meaning.

“Namaste” became a common example in Western yoga culture because it was:

• added to merchandise

• printed on tank tops (“Nama-slay,” “Namaste in bed”)

• turned into a wellness trend

• removed from its relational, real-world cultural context

Many teachers intentionally avoid the word to model cultural humility and avoid contributing to misuse of South Asian traditions.

This aligns strongly with LRW’s teaching philosophy on lineage respect and cultural awareness.

It May Not Align With Trauma-Informed or Accessible Teaching

Some trauma-sensitive yoga teachers opt not to end class with any prescribed ritual phrases, including “namaste.”

Why? Because:

• not everyone resonates with spiritual language

• students from diverse backgrounds may feel excluded

• neutral closings can feel safer, especially in trauma-sensitive spaces

• it avoids assumptions about beliefs or cultural familiarity

At LRW, this is particularly important because we serve military families, survivors of trauma, caregivers, and those healing from complex experiences.

Creating a safe, inclusive environment matters more than tradition for tradition’s sake.

Many Teachers Prefer More Intentional, Clear Closings

Instead of “namaste,” modern yoga teachers may choose phrases like:

• “Thank you for practicing with me.”

• “May you carry this grounding into the rest of your day.”

• “Take a breath. Take what you need. Leave what you don’t.”

• “I honor your effort and your presence.”

These alternatives are:

• clear

• inclusive

• authentic

• accessible across cultures

• aligned with trauma-sensitive practices

They communicate gratitude without relying on a term that feels overused, misunderstood, or misappropriated.

Some Teachers Still Say “Namaste” With Context

Avoiding “namaste” is not a requirement. It is a choice rooted in awareness.

Some teachers say “namaste” while also teaching:

• its linguistic meaning

• its cultural context

• why it’s used

• how to pronounce it respectfully

When taught with care and competence, the word can be used honorably and authentically.

The key is context, not aesthetics.

A Real LRW Teaching Example

In LRW trainings, many students start by repeating “namaste” because they're accustomed to hearing it in Western yoga classes. Once they learn its origins, history, and the concerns surrounding its Westernization, many choose one of two paths:

• continue saying it, but with deeper respect and correct usage

• or shift to more inclusive closings that align with their values

• Both choices are valid.

The intention behind the word matters more than the performative use of it.

Yoga teachers may choose not to say “namaste” because the word has been widely misused, misunderstood, commercialized, or culturally appropriated in Western yoga spaces. Others avoid it to create inclusive, trauma-sensitive environments.

It is not wrong to say “namaste.” It is not required to say “namaste.” It is a choice rooted in awareness, respect, and integrity.

The heart of yoga lies not in one word, but in the intention behind the practice.