10 Alternatives to “Namaste”

For many yoga teachers and students, saying “Namaste” at the end of class has become second nature. It’s often used as a respectful way to close practice. However, in recent years, the word has sparked deeper conversations about cultural appropriation, authenticity, and intention.

Whether you’re looking to be more inclusive, more culturally sensitive, or simply to shake up your routine, if you’re a teacher or student seeking other ways to close a class, here are 10 thoughtful and respectful alternatives.

1. “Thank you for sharing your practice.”

Simple and grounded, this keeps the closing about mutual gratitude. 

2. “May you carry this feeling with you into the rest of your day.”

A gentle bridge between the space of practice and the outside world.

3. “The light in me sees and honors the light in you.”

This keeps the intention behind Namaste but uses plain English and can feel more transparent. 

4. Bow in Silence.

Simply guide the class to take a quiet moment of reflection, bowing the head in gratitude. This can feel deeply spacious, and no words necessary. 

5. A deep collective breath.

Ending with a unifying group breath can bring everyone back into the body and out into the world feeling connected.

“Let’s take one final breath together… and exhale it all out”

6. “Let’s bow to the wisdom of the practice.”

This acknowledges the practice and places reverence on yoga itself, a reminder that it’s not about the teacher or student, but about the teachings.

7. “Be well.”

Warm and comforting, short and sweet.

8. Your Own Signature Phrase

Consider what you want your students to walk away with. Your closing line can reflect your own style or values. Some examples:

“Keep listening inward”
“Stay curious”
“Trust your body”
“Feel good”
“Trust yourself”
“May your practice ripple outwards”

9. A meaningful quote or mantra.

Short quote, mantra, or affirmation. 

“May all beings be happy. May all beings be safe. May all beings be free.

10. “With love and respect, we close our practice.”

This can work for any class and is clear, inclusive, and heartfelt.

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to say “Namaste” to end your class with presence and intention. What matters most is how you hold the space and the energy you leave your students with. Choose something that feels aligned with your values, your teaching style, and your community.

Join the Conversation

How do you like to end your yoga practice or your classes if you’re a teacher? Do you have a favorite phrase or ritual?

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The post 10 Ways to End Your Yoga Class Without Saying “Namaste” appeared first on yogasociety.

It’s important that everyone feels welcome in every class, but creating an inclusive environment is about more than offering modifications. It’s about shifting your language, awareness, and energy as a teacher. Here are eight ways to make your classes feel safer, more welcoming, and truly accessible to everyone.

1. Use Invitational Language

Offer choices that invite autonomy and empowerment, and help students tune into their own needs rather than blindly following commands.

Use phrases like “If it feels right for your body…” or “You’re welcome to explore…” 

2. Offer Multiple Variations without Hierarchy

When giving options, avoid labeling them as “beginner” or “advanced”. Frame all variations as equally valid expressions of a pose.

Example: “You can stay here or try lifting one leg” instead of  “the fullest expression of the pose is…”

3. Be Mindful of Touch and Consent

Always ask before offering hands-on assists. Use a consent system (cards, chips, or verbal check-ins) and respect each student’s choice. 

4. Use Accessible and Clear Language

Avoid overly technical jargon or spiritual terms without explanation. Plain language ensures everyone, regardless of experience or background, feels included and informed.

5. Avoid Body Talk or Assumptions

It should go without saying, but please don’t comment on appearance, reference calories, or “getting in shape”. Keep the focus on breath, awareness, and how students feel. Never assume ability based on body type.

6. Teach to the People in the Room

Be present. Notice your students’ energy and adjust your class accordingly. That means being flexible with your sequence and honoring what shows up that day.

7. Give Everyone Equal Attention

It’s natural to want ot help the person who looks the most confused or new, but try not to over-focus on any one student. Aim to hold space for the entire group, share your attention evenly, and offer cues that can help many at once. 

8. Respect Yoga’s Cultural Roots without Appropriation

Share the philosophy and lineage of yoga respectfully. Offer context when using Sanskrit, mantras, or symbols, and avoid using sacred elements as trendy decorations.

Bonus for studio owners: Use Inclusive Visuals & Language in Marketing

Representation matters. Use images and language that reflect diversity in race, size, gender, age, and ability. Say “everyone” instead of “ladies” or “guys.” Let your promotional content speak to all students.

Final Thought

There’s a lot to think about as a teacher. Remember that creating an inclusive yoga class isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being thoughtful and willing to learn. When students feel seen, respected, and included, the real magic of yoga starts to unfold. 

Join the Conversation

What’s one small shift you’ve made (or experienced) that made a class feel more inclusive? Share it in the comments below!

The post 8 Tips for Teaching a Truly Inclusive Yoga Class appeared first on yogasociety.

There’s a certain “je ne sais quoi” element to what really sets apart a GREAT yoga class from a GOOD one. If you’ve experienced a great class, you know that there’s something special about it, and it’s more than the music and the poses. It can be hard to put into words, but in the thousands of classes I’ve taken over 20+ years, I’ve found a few key themes that set apart good from great.

A good yoga class gives you a nice stretch, maybe a sweat, and leaves you feeling a bit better.
A great yoga class shifts something inside you on a different level, beyond the physical. You walk in with one state of mind and leave feeling transformed. IYKYK. 

Here are seven key differences:

 1. Clear Cues vs. Embodiment

• Good: The teacher clearly tells you where to put your body, like twister: “Step your right foot forward, Warrior 1”
• Great: They guide you into your body, and help you feel it from the inside out. 

2. Movement vs. Intentional Flow

• Good: You flow through poses and get a balanced physical practice
• Great: Every movement feels intentional. There’s a sense of rhythm, breath, and transitions are meditations.

3. Sequence vs. Unfolding

• Good: The class is well-sequenced and feels complete and balanced.
• Great: The sequence feels like an unfolding of a storyline. Each pose builds toward something, whether it’s a theme, peak pose, or an internal shift. You feel like you went on a journey. 

4. Stretch vs. Shift

• Good: You feel relaxed and stretched.
• Great: You leave with insight. Something shifts, a feeling lingers, or part of you softens. 

5. Relaxed vs. Realigned

• Good: You walk out calmer
• Great: You walk out clearer. The class feels like a reset and you leave realigned.

6. Presence vs. Space

• Good: The teacher is outwardly focused and holds space.
• Great: The teacher holds space so well that you forget about time and feel like you entered another dimension. Their energy is steady, calm, and grounded. You feel safe enough to let go, explore, and feel.

 7. Workout vs. Work-in

• Good: You got a great workout
• Great: You feel like you returned to yourself and remember what matters, maybe feel more whole. 

The Bottom Line:

A great yoga class moves more than your body. It moves your breath, your heart, your awareness, and makes space for you to really unfold. Once you experience a great yoga class, it’ll have you coming back for more. 

Join the Conversation

What’s one thing that’s made a yoga class unforgettable for you? 

The post The Magic of a Great Yoga Class: 7 Elements that Separate Good from Great appeared first on yogasociety.