Guide to Yoga Class Etiquette – Tips for Learned Yogis
Whether you are new to a yoga studio or you are a proven yogi, you need a refresher on yoga rules, as there can be many misconceptions about starting a yoga class. Understanding yoga class etiquette is about creating an awareness of yourself that is specific to yoga classes and studios – this will help you feel more comfortable during your practice.
In fact, there are a lot of classes for beginners. And if you’re new to the practice, it can seem like there’s a lot of unwritten simple common sense and etiquette for yoga. However, if you follow some basic studio etiquette, your yoga experience will be rewarding and stress-free in no time.
Most yoga classes follow a similar etiquette, although the details vary depending on the type of yoga you do and you’re level of training. From the moment you step into the studio, until the end of your first season, that’s exactly what you can expect.
Yoga Class Etiquette: Rules to Know and Follow
Yoga etiquette, for the most part, is self-explanatory: respect the teacher, respect your classmates, respect yourself and the practice.
To make yoga practice enjoyable, consider the following tips to be specific about your body and that of your fellow yogis.
Arrive on time
Most yoga classess or studios recommend arriving 5 to 10 minutes early. Arrive a little early so you have time to prepare and find your seat. Plus, if it’s your first time, you’ll need some time to fill out paperwork, get acquainted with the studio, change your clothes before you participate.
Take off shoes at the door
You have to take off your shoes upon entering. The same applies to the entire studio – yoga is a barefoot sport.
Enter the class and find your seat
Take off your shoes before entering. Lay out your mat so that it is in the same direction as the other students’ rugs. Ask your instructor if you need any additional support for your class. Tell the instructor if this is your first time.
Sit quietly on the mat
This is a great opportunity to slow down your day, deepen your breathing, and tune yourself in before starting classes.
Switch off the mobile
In fact, most studios will politely ask you to keep your phone out of class to avoid scenarios like this.
Don’t Try To Impress
Yoga is an exercise that can be modified for many levels of ability. However, it can sometimes create a competitive spirit when one looks at the physical prowess of others. This can be really dangerous. Many poses can take a long time to master, and can lead to serious injury if one pushes oneself too hard.
Trying to wean yourself out of the need to show off your posture, you’re not being kind to your body.
Return Studio Equipment
If you are invited to use blocks, straps, bolsters or blankets or various props throughout the class, you are also asked to return them at the end.
Breathe, but not too loudly
Studios are traditionally quiet, peaceful and contemplative spaces, so don’t waste your energy by breathing a little too hard in class, you can even lower your volume.
Maintaining hygiene
This advice is simple but very important etiquette, to maintain cleanliness, shower every day, wash your hair, brush your teeth, are using mats or props, so make sure you clean them before you bring them to the yoga studio. Do it Take care of extra, heavy perfumes, oils and colognes.
Wear Appropriate Clothing
Dressing appropriately is basic yoga studio etiquette. It’s always a safe bet to wear specific clothing designed for your comfort during class. Clothing should always be tailored to the yoga discipline you choose.
Ask questions after class
Most of the trainers are on hand to answer any questions you may have. This is a great time to learn more about specific poses or build a relationship with your instructor.
Be conscious of personal space
Personal space in a yoga studio comes with unwritten rules. When you’re laying out your mat, follow suit with everyone else keeping the mat parallel to them. This will help to ensure that the arms do not collide with each other while extending the arms to the sides.
Leave before savasana
While it is absolutely essential to understand Savasana before class, the final resting pose is actually considered very important in overall yoga practice – comes at the end of almost every yoga session.
Conclusion
Following some basic studio etiquette will help turn the excitement of yoga into something surprisingly positive and enjoyable.
Being aware of the above exercises is one of the most enjoyable tips and tricks for you and your classmates to consider as a beginner.
