Living Namaste. A Practical Guide to Mindfulness, Yoga, and Building Community

A practical guide to embodying the principles of “namaste” in everyday life

“An appealing manual that offers encouraging methods for pursuing a happier and more connected life.”—Kirkus Reviews

• Defines the meaning of “namaste” and explains how to apply it in daily interactions to build stronger communities
• Offers practical strategies to develop self-awareness and compassion, foster deeper connections with others, and support mutual growth
• Includes exercises, mindfulness meditations, and svadhyaya (“self-study”) practices to deepen personal growth and understanding

Namaste is a Sanskrit greeting that means “I bow to the divine in you.” It has become a common phrase to say at the end of yoga classes, but as Jeremy Engels shows, “namaste” is more than a polite expression; it is a powerful principle for building connection and community.

Engels organizes the practice of living namaste around three reminders—“I am divine,” “you are divine,” and “live the word, together”—noting that the significance of mindfulness and yoga practice is about remembering to return to a state of awareness, presence, and connection.

The practical approach Engels offers in Living Namaste encourages self-awareness and empathy, cultivating gratitude, and treating one another with compassion to foster deeper connections and support mutual growth. Each of the three reminders is accompanied by exercises, mindfulness meditations, and svadhyaya (“self-study”) practices designed to help you apply these teachings to your daily life. By responding thoughtfully and with care to each other, rather than reactively, readers can form stronger, more supportive relationships, support each other’s well-being, and contribute to healthier communities.