STUDIO ETIQUETTE

Be Punctual
Rushing into a yoga class is stressful for both you and your fellow yogins.  Entering a class after it has started can be very distracting.  Be sure to arrive on time, giving yourself the time you need to check in, roll out your mat and settle.
If you have a few extra minutes before class begins perhaps sit quietly and focus on your breath, or do a few gentle stretches to warm up. 

Communicate with me!

As your teacher, I may give gentle (or sometimes more specific) adjustments in class, perhaps to guide you deeper into a pose or amend your position to correct misalignment. If you’re sore or injured, tell me before class begins.  Some people simply do not like being touched; I totally respect this, so it is vital for you to tell me if this is the case for you.  Before any partner work, I will always ask for your permission – please be open and say – there is no shame in saying ‘no!'


Mobile Phones
Yoga offers us the opportunity to escape the constant communications and distractions of everyday life, offering us a rare chance to be fully present. So, please turn off your phone upon your arrival to the Studio.  Phones by your mat is not permitted (unless there’s a family emergency that you are in the midst of).  Remember that others have done the same, with you in mind too.

Remove your shoes

Yoga is always practiced with bare feet. Therefore, upon entering the studio please leave your footwear on the shoe rack inside the door.  By removing your shoes, you’re not only helping with studio cleanliness, but we work in very close proximity to the floor!  Plus, you’re respecting a space that’s revered by others!

Check your smell!

This advice applies to both ends of the 'spectrum.'  Firstly, please be mindful of your personal hygiene; not just usual body odour, but also the cleanliness of your feet! We are in close proximity to each other, and also at times may work with a partner. 

Secondly, heavy perfumes and strong scents, whilst lovely for you, can be very overpowering and distracting for others, and are out of place in the studio! 




Gong Baths

When attending a Gong Bath at the studio, as above, remove your shoes upon your arrival.  Bring with you a mat if you have one, blankets, sleeping bag or duvet, a pillow and anything else you need for your comfort.  The golden rule though, is NO TALKING AT ALL!  It is distracting and disrespectful to those who are in a meditative state!




Be aware of your space

It is common courtesy to stagger your mats so that the person behind you has a clear view of the teacher.  Give yourself and neighbour adequate space and breathing room.

Also, please note it’s polite to avoid walking on a fellow yogi’s mat.

If you’re borrowing the studio’s blankets, straps, blocks or bolsters, be sure to return them to their rightful place upon leaving. 



Minimise Conversation!

Yoga studios are considered a space for reflection, self-study, and focus.   Maintaining a quiet atmosphere supports this frame of mind. I love that my Studio has an air of social friendliness before class begins. However, once the class has started it is respectful to hold the chat until after the end of the class!


Observe Savasana

Lying in Savasana and practicing Yoga Nidra helps to restore your nervous system to its default settings and offer your mind a chance to sink into meditation.  By packing up and shuffling out during the most meditative and restful stage of the entire class, you’ll disrupt everyone else and deny yourself the benefits.  If you absolutely have to leave class early (sometimes we may have to) just let me know before class, position yourself close to the door, and be sure to leave before Yoga Nidra begins. 

THANK YOU! 
om shanti