Yoga Etiquette

Why isn’t anyone talking?

So, you know how in movie scenes where the characters are practicing yoga and having a full on conversation? Don’t do that LOL! In all seriousness though, there are some respectful ways to conduct yourself or rules if you will as you are preparing for your practice and throughout. First is to be on time. The class should begin on time, so you should be there and be ready on your mat at the beginning of class. It would benefit you even more if you arrived 10 minutes early so you can take off your shoes (which is another rule), put your things away, use the restroom and find your space that will allow you to be comfortable. You will find that people are lying down with their eyes closed getting in the zone or stretching.  That brings me to the next point which is to be quiet. It is nice to be silent and enjoy the space, clear the mind, and let others do the same. It is ok to speak as long as you keep your voice as low as possible. Making noise at the beginning and end of class is disruptive to those in a meditative state and that includes unzipping your yoga bag or velcro sounds and throwing your mat down loudly. You should refrain from wearing loud bangle bracelets and heavy perfumes. Phones need to be on silent or do not disturb. I’m sorry but vibrate does not work either. Last but not least, along with being on time, you should stay the entire class. If you have an emergency, no worries because we are yogis and we are understanding right? Some people will remain in savasana a bit longer if needed and that’s ok. We get up quietly, roll up the mat quietly and exit the studio after grabbing our belongings.