I was recently asked the question “Is there such a thing as yoga class etiquette?” I was pleased to answer this question and I would like to share the answers with you.

YOGA CLASS ETIQUETTE

1.  COME TO CLASS CLEAN.  Personal Hygiene is good for you and the students around you. Make sure to shower before coming to class for cleanliness and to reduce or eliminate unpleasant body odor.  If you are unable to shower, take a few minutes in the bathroom before class to clean your feet and wipe off your skin with a wet wash cloth or towel.

2. DO NOT CARRY ON A CONVERSATION DURING CLASS.  Talking to a friend next to you or talking on the cell phone is very disruptive to the students and yoga teacher. Remember to turn off your cell phone and turn on awareness and concentration.

3. TELL THE TEACHER IF YOU HAVE TO LEAVE EARLY. If you have to leave early, make sure to tell your yoga teacher.  It is a sign of respect.  If you leave without telling your teacher, she/he may think you are injured and it will cause class disruption.

4. IF YOU LEAVE EARLY, MAKE SURE TO DO SAVASANA (CORPSE POSE) ON YOUR OWN.  Savasana is an essential part of the practice. Some believe it is the most important asana and that all other poses prepare our mind/body for Savasana. Do not leave without doing corpse pose, even if it is for a minute.

5.  LISTEN.  In class, the yoga instructor will provide verbal instructions, in addition to some demonstrations.  Do not rely on watching the teacher perform the postures. In fact, many yoga teachers are taught in school to give verbal instructions only.  Therefore, listen to the teacher’s verbal  instructions, tune into body awareness, and apply the instructions into your own body.

6. BREATHE SOFTLY DURING SAVASANA.  During Savasana, although it might be tempting to let out a big sigh or continue with ujjayi breathing, it is important to keep your breath to yourself.  Meaning, do not breathe so that your neighbor can hear you.  Savasana is a time to dive deep into relaxation and it is challenging to do that with a heavy breather by your side.  Savasana breath should be soft and natural.

7.  IF YOU SWEAT, BE CAREFUL NOT TO SPLATTER YOUR SWEAT ON YOUR NEIGHBOR.  In most yoga classes, you will perspire.  If you tend to sweat a lot, be mindful of those around you.  Bring a towel or two to class, so that you can wipe the sweat off your body when it gets heavy.

8.  APPROACH YOGA LIKE A MEDITATION, RATHER THAN A WORK-OUT, KEEP GRUNTING OUT OF IT.  Yoga class can be an excellent source of exercise for the body and mind.  Still, yoga is not like being in the weight room or like taking an aerobics class.  Practice yoga like you are meditating in motion.  Keep the breath long and deep, rather than short and shallow.  Soften and relax your facial muscles.  Do not grunt or make disruptive sounds when poses are challenging.  Move with grace and put your awareness on your inner environment.  The intention is to create a calm and content inner world, stress-free.