"Namaste" is a sanskrit word that means "I bow to you".  It is a deep and respectful hindu greeting originating in India.  This is a gracious form of extending friendship in love, respect, and humility, honoring the divine soul in one another.  To perform Namaste, we place the hands together at the heart chakra, close the eyes, and bow the head.  In the West the word "Namaste" is usually spoken in conjunction with this gesture. In India, it is understood that the gesture itself signifies Namaste, and therefore, it is unnecessary to say the word while bowing.  "Namaste" gesture is commonly used by yoga instructors and students showing gratitude and respect towards each other when the yoga class comes to a end, honoring the divine in each other.