Class Etiquette
The practice of yoga begins before your class starts. To create the best experience for yourself and others, please follow these guidelines:
- Arrive a few minutes before class begins. Give yourself time for a moment of meditation and to relax from the day. If you arrive just as class is beginning, enter quietly and find a place in the back of the class. Most teachers understand that sometimes being late is unavoidable. If you arrive late please enter the studio as quietly as possible. Unroll your mat before entering the studio and lay it out quietly when you find your spot.
- Remove noisy jewelry like bangles and bells before class starts.
- Students are always welcome to relax in the space prior to the class if the room is open – we ask that you observe noble silence and limit your activity to relaxation, rather than starting any active asana practice.
- Come with an empty stomach. Yoga is best practiced three hours after a meal. During class, please do not drink water. Water cools the inner heat (what the yogis call "tapas") that helps make the body flexible. Do drink plenty of water after class.
- Tell your teacher about any injuries or special health conditions before class. This will help the teacher make suggestions to make your practice safer and more enjoyable.
- Please keep conversations low when you arrive and leave as other students may be relaxing or meditating. We want to create a space of healing, quiet, and relaxation as well as one of friendship.
The Spirit of Yoga embraces the qualities of compassion, awareness and respect. In this attitude of awareness, we ask that you …
- Leave cell phones outside the yoga studios. If you are on call or in an emergency situation, please speak to someone at the front desk.
- Please ask the staff or teachers for suggestions about classes if you are uncertain.
- Remove your shoes after entering to keep the floors clean for others.
- Refrain from wearing perfumes or fragrances as some people are allergic to strong odors. Yoga mats may be kept fresh by washing them from time to time.
Self-awareness leads to attention to detail and to the respect for the space and people around you. Thank you for creating a sacred space for your practice and for respecting the Spirit of Yoga.
