In order that this kriya is done with single pointed attention, and one does not look to this side and the other, the namaskaram is always done with face to the ground. The indriyas (sense organs) face towards the outer world when we lie flat. But when we prostrate on the ground with face to the ground, they are also turned away from the outer world.

Great heights are not necessary. Humility is what is warranted. If our minds are in this mode, the Grace of the Almighty (kripa varsha) will flow freely and fill us. It is, just like, water does not remain at altitudes, but flows to level ground and fills it. As a symbol of this mental move, the body is lowered and one prostrates to the ground, head to foot.

Thus the act of namaskaram symbolises the humility and respect and melting of ego. Any action done with the right thought and feeling behind it, in turn, enhances and enriches that experience. Thus, the sashtanga and panchanga namaskarams are a great aid for nurturing and heightening the “tallest” inner quality of utter humility – that is, the “vinaya sampath“. The great legacy of namaskara – kriya to which our tradition has bequeathed to us should not be allowed to decline and disappear.

With humility, and for the sake of humility, this kriya must be performed. This is very important. If the inner feeling basic to it is absent, namaskaram is nothing more than a mere exercise for the body.