Importance of Namaskar: Why It’s Better Than Handshakes?

In Indian culture, greeting someone with a “Namaskar or Namaskara” is a popular way of showing respect. This global practice of the spiritual greeting has now spread worldwide. However, Western culture still influences some people who shake hands when they meet. So, we will be discussing the importance of Namaskar and why it’s way better than a handshake. 

Namaskar vs Handshake: Understanding Its Differences 

From childhood, we have all been taught to greet elderly people or a deity by joining our hands and bowing before them. But why is it so? Many cultures, including the Hindu Dharam, still do not shake hands because this is not a part of our cultural and religious teachings.

Even today, when we visit temples or see a deity statue, we join our hands and bow down to show gratitude and respect. This is also the best way to attract God’s divine consciousness. 

However, people still shake hands to greet one another when they meet. Many cultures do not appreciate this practice, as it is influenced by Western culture. When you shake hands, you transmit your aura and positive energy to the other person. So, let’s look at the importance of Namaskar. 

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Meaning and Symbolism of Namaste 

Namaste meaning and symbolism are deep-rooted in the Indian culture, spirituality, yoga and mudra, where you join your fingertips and palms together. Moreover, Namaste the meaning is derived from two different Sanskrit words: ‘Namah’ means ‘to bow’, and ‘te’ means ‘to you’, i.e. “I bow to you.”

Moreover, by doing this, both people bow down to the divine power that allows them to align themselves with each other’s inner consciousness. This is also a symbol of showing one’s inner values of humility and unity. 

What does Hinduism say about the word Namaste? 

In Hinduism, the word’ Namaste’ carries a spiritual significance, meaning that “the divine and the soul are the same in you and me.” Therefore, the ‘Namaste’ can be understood as ‘I bow to you’ or ‘the divine within me greets the divine in you.’ 

Moreover, this phrase states that the two people connect spiritually by acknowledging the divine presence within one another. Therefore, the importance of Namaskar is deeply ingrained in Indian culture and reflects one’s Sattvikta, which means spiritual purity. 

What does Namaste mean spiritually?

Besides religious and cultural significance, doing Namaste has some spiritual significance that will blow your mind. In spirituality, doing Namaskar is not only about showing respect and gratitude; it’s beyond that. 

• During spiritual practices, people usually join hands and close their eyes. This indicates the ability to look into the inner spirit, which allows them peace of mind and soothes their soul. 
• Namaste means letting go of your ego and showing humanity toward the other person. 
• Doing Namaste and bowing down allows the two minds to meet, showing a warm and welcoming gesture. 
• When we join our hands, it represents the unity of our thoughts, words, and actions. It shows complete focus and attention when meeting people and having conversations.

Why Prefer Namaskar over Handshakes: Scientific Reason 

Let us now understand the scientific importance of Namaskar and why one should avoid handshakes. 

• The first and most common reason is hygiene. Namaskar is a non-contact gesture that lowers the risk of transmitting germs, bacteria, and viruses. 
• When you do Namaste, you join both hands and pressurise your fingertips. This increases the pressure point in the brain, activating your mind and body. 
• Performing Namaskar can have a calming effect on the nervous system. This positive gesture can lower stress levels and bring peace and calmness. 
• Namaskar involves bringing one’s hands together at the heart centre to enhance understanding and concentrate on the present moment. This easy method can help people clear their minds and prepare for more meaningful conversations.
  

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Namaskar or Anjali Mudra: The Yoga Hand Gesture

Namaskar Mudra, also known as Anjali Mudra, is when you place your palms together with your fingers. People use this gesture, known as Namaste or Namaskar, to show respect and connect with others on a deeper level. Moreover, it is a part of asana practices and has various therapeutic benefits for practitioners. Thus, when done as part of meditation by placing your hands at the heart centre, it encourages peace and harmony. 

Benefits of Anjali Mudra

The importance of Namaskar or Anjali Mudra is to promote inner peace and balance. It encourages mindfulness and can make you feel more grounded and calm. Moreover, it also brings a sense of unity and gratitude, enhancing your connection with yourself and those around you. This yoga posture is also beneficial in stimulating the Heart Chakra (Anahata Chakra). 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

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