If you are new to yoga, you may wonder what is appropriate behavior before, during, and after
a public yoga class. Different environments garner different behavior but in general, these
guidelines will help you and your classmates to feel comfortable while you practice together.
The most important thing to remember is that you are sharing the space, props and instructor's
time with many different people, all with varied needs. So please conduct yourself in a kind and
compassionate manner.
- What to Wear - You should wear whatever clothes you can move easily in. They should
be comfortable, and not so tight as to restrict breathing or movement, but also not so
loose that the instructor cannot see the lines of your body which is very important for
checking your alignment. Yoga is practiced in bare feet so that the feet can stay
stationary when the legs are apart. If you are concerned about hygiene, it is
recommended that your bring your own yoga mat.
- Be on Time - Showing up on time is the first step in creating a comfortable space for
yourself and your fellow classmates. Please plan to walk into the studio at least 5
minutes prior to the start of class to give you ample time to find a space, get your props,
and sit quietly on your mat to prepare yourself mentally before class begins.
- Finding a Place - No matter how often you come to a particular class, please bear in
mind that the place you like to be in the room is not "yours". Do not be offended if you
come in and someone is in the corner you prefer. Getting upset only creates more chaos
in your mind and for the others in the room - remember non-attachment.
- Front or Back? - If you have trouble hearing or seeing it is wise to sit in the front of the
class so that you can follow instructions more easily. However, if you are very new to
the practice, or tend to be easily distracted, it may be easier to sit in the middle so that
you have a few people around you who you can see in case you miss an instruction.
- Set up Quietly - Please be as quiet as possible while you are getting undressed, putting
away coats, car keys, and getting out your props. Often, the instructor and/or students
are meditating while they wait for class to begin. Please respect the sacredness of the
space.
- Cell Phones - It is of the utmost importance to turn off your cell phone prior to coming
into the studio. Nothing can distract the mind and emotions more than hearing a phone
ringing during Savasana.
- Coming in Late - Sometimes it is unavoidable to be a few minutes late to class, not
matter how hard you try to be on time. If you are late, please make every effort to be a
quiet as possible. Set up your mat in the back of the room and try not to walk in front of
the students already practicing. Personally, I will not allow a student to join the class
more than 10 minutes late. If you come in and are asked to leave, please respect the
decision of the instructor graciously.
- Separate Space - Please use the props that you got out for yourself, and do not
"borrow" someone else's props unless they offer them to you. Also, if you are asked to
go to a wall or move around the room, please do not step on someone else's mat. Not
only is this un-hygienic to those who like to bring their own mats, it does not respect the
other students personal space.
- Chatting - Please do not chat with your neighbors during class, especially when you are
asked to work with a partner.
- Questions - Feel free to ask questions during the practice, but try not to monopolize the
instructor's time. Personal questions about your practice can be asked after class.
- Partnering - When you are asked to partner in a pose, remember that while you do not
have to work with a partner, you are being offered the opportunity to gain a deeper
understanding of pose. If you choose not to partner for whatever reason, do not go off
and do your own thing, but participate in the experience as best you can on your own.
Also, please do not give instructions to your partner - allow the teacher to teach the
class and if you think your partner is doing something dangerous, your responsibility is
to notify the instructor, and let them handle it.
- Adjustments - Sometimes the instructor will give you adjustments in a pose. You
always have the right to tell the instructor that you would rather not be touched, for
whatever reason. Please be aware that adjustments are not the instructors attempt to
"fix" you or your pose, but rather to bring greater awareness to certain parts of the body.
- Pay Attention - Make your very best effort to listen to the instructor at all times during
class. This is not only out of respect for the instructor's time and teaching, but also for
safety. If you tend to look out the window or constantly think of other things, you may
miss a few key instructions, and when you begin to listen again, you could injure
yourself as you try to catch up.
- Please Do Not Leave Early - In order to keep the energy of the class contained and
to not disturb your fellow students, do not leave the class during the final relaxation pose.
- Putting Away Props - Please be mindful of those who come after you and make every
effort to fold the blankets neatly, fold or roll the mat as per the studios preference, roll
up your strap, and put blocks or chairs away. Even if you are not a neat-nick by nature,
pretend that your parents are watching!
