Etiquette is defined as 'the customary code of polite behavior in society or among members of a particular profession or group'. It is a code of conduct that helps everyone to get along by showing respect for others that share your location.
Most of us have good intentions much of the time but sometimes, maybe more often than we realize, we forget our manners for the sake of getting something done quickly and easily in the mad rush in which we live our lives. In so doing we don't realize how we are being rude, or insensitive, to those that surround us, but that is no excuse, we should never be too busy to be kind.
Yoga class is no exception. A tradition as ancient and beautiful as yoga comes with a certain level of implied etiquette that is hoped to be honored by all. Some rules are commonsensical and others maybe not so much so to a newcomer. So as a refresher for us all, here are some basic manners that we can all practice in yoga:
Arrive On Time: Please arrive 10 - 15 minutes early so that you can set up your mat, go to the bathroom, sign in if you are making up a class with a different teacher, find an out-of-the-way-place for your personal items, etc.
Waiting? Whisper!: If you come earlier than 15 minutes and are waiting for your classroom to become available, please whisper while you are waiting. The other classes are ending their class in Savasana and quietness to do so is much appreciated.
If You Are Late, Wait: If you do arrive late and the class has all ready started please wait until you hear the OMs ending. If you don't want to miss the reading or the intention the teacher is setting for the class, step in quietly and stand or sit by the door until the centering time is completed.
Proclaim Your Pain: Let your teacher know of injuries or special health conditions you are living with. Your teacher knows what they will be teaching that day and can help with modifications, avoid certain assists, and help you get the most out of the class.
Remove Your Shoes: The classroom is seen as a sacred space, and since shoes track dirt in, please be sure to leave them in the changing room. It is nice to have a clean space.
No Phone Zone: Make a habit of doing this as soon as you get to the yoga studio. It can be very disruptive when you are enjoying a quiet Savasana to be startled by a ringing cell phone. Once we leave the outside world behind us.... it is nice to avoid the disturbance. If you forget and your phone rings, etiquette asks that you turn off the phone as quickly as possible. Though this is a situation best avoided... we are all human and forget sometimes.
The Nose Knows: Come to class clean, body odor can be a big distraction and quite offensive, especially if you end up doing partner poses that day! If you don't have time to shower, take a quick birdbath to freshen up. Avoid wearing fragrances which could set off someone's asthma or allergies, many people are sensitive to them.
Space Case: Our yoga mat becomes our little island of sanctuary in the ocean of the classroom, so honor others sacred space and do not step on their mats. Arrange props and personal items neatly and close to your mat so that you can reach them during the practice.
I'm No Fool, No Siree: Do always listen to your body. Your body will communicate with you if you listen. Part of your yoga practice is doing what is right and true for you on any given day, so go at your own pace. Let go of ego, just be, and love yourself just as you are.
It's My Thing: When you enter into a classroom there is an unwritten agreement that you will follow the instructions of that teacher, for that class, whether it is the way you practice yoga or not. Follow along, you might learn something new. DO NOT do your own poses or practice. Wear appropriate clothing that covers when you contort yourself and be sure it doesn't have holes in embarrassing places. Avoid breathing loudly, you are the only one that should hear your breath.
Prop-asana: Please put your props away neatly. If you don't know where something belongs, ask a fellow student or the teacher. Fold the blankets back into the same style as you found them and place them tidily on top of each other; the same goes for the mats. Be sure to place the same basket items back together, don't mix.
Early Exit?: If you must leave early let the teacher know at the beginning of class. Position yourself close to the door for easy exit and leave as quietly as possible. Leave prior to Savasana at the end of class, so as not to disturb the others in their relaxation. Know that you are missing the most important pose of the class and try to relax at some point in your day. Give yourself kudos for coming and gifting yourself with at least some yoga that day.
When you enter a yoga studio you enter a community of like-minded individuals, a Kula (as we yogans call it). Making it a place where we each respect our fellow practitioners' space, time, and frame of mind is all of our responsibility. It is in the simple acts of loving kindness that people come together, promote harmony and cooperation, and form the heart of morality that our social existence is best anchored on and makes our yoga studio a place we want to return to again and again. By creating an oasis for all of us we can give ourselves a sanctuary for our bodies, heart, and soul.
