Bringing the palms together at the heart chakra, Anjali itself means "offering," and in India this mudra is often accompanied by the greeting Namaste or Namaskar. It is like a sacred greeting, often translated as "I bow to the divinity within you from the divinity within me." The gesture is very ancient and it is an integral part of Indian culture. Namaste allows two individuals to come together energetically to a place of connection and timelessness, free from the bonds of ego-connections. Anjali Mudra is one of the hundreds of types of Mudras that are used in rituals, classical dance, and yoga. This salutation is at the essence of the yogic practice of seeing the divine within all of creation. Hence, this gesture is offered equally to God, temple deities, teachers, family, friends, strangers, sacred rivers, trees, rain, etc. This mudra seems ancient, almost as old as the beginning of time. It is rich in meaning and substance. In a moment of simplicity, we are transported to eternity through the Anjali mudra. It is also said that practice of this mudra can ease fear and stress, relaxes and helps remain balanced, inducing a peaceful state. I always considered it a beautiful way of meeting and approaching somebody - to me it conveys, 'it's nice to meet you with peace, respect, humility and friendliness.'
Namaste Mudra, Manish Vyas during his wedding rituals
