In a yoga class, as in any other places that are part of our life, there is a so-called etiquette.

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1 Do not be late.

This is a big ‘no’ and apart from the fact that is disrespectful towards the teacher and the students, any late arrival is completely disruptive, and it stops the flow of the class.

2 Do not step with your shoes on the mat and remove your shoes when you enter the studio.

Imagine the mat as being your clean safe space. It may not be clean-clean, but it’s your place.

3 Do not step on others’ mat, with or without shoes.

The mat is a personal item that deserves proper consideration. So, love your own space and respect the others’.

4 Do not set your mat without checking with the instructor.

Believe it or not, the instructor does work to prepare for the class and always has a setting in mind with places assigned, either based on visibility or the way the instructor can walk between students. The instructor would need to know where everybody is and how to check the flow in the class.

5 Do not bring your child to the class unless the class stipulated is for parent and child.

There is always a place and a time for children and that should not be in an adult yoga class. If the child loses his patience, if the parent takes the time to speak with the child – these are noise and commotions that will impact the rest of the class. In a yoga class focus and awareness are important, and any disruptions will ruin the class and it is disrespectful towards the other students.

6 Leave your ego at the door.

You should not make comments to provoke a competition in class, things like ‘look what I can do’, ‘this is easy’, or comments that might discourage others. Yoga is for everyone, and ego has no place in a yoga class.

7 Don’t come to the class if you are sick

or you have symptoms of cold or flu. The other participants in class don’t need you to share your germs. Check with your doctor if you are contagious.

8 Make sure your phone is on silent.

Yoga class is a place for meditation and reflection. A phone ring can be interrupting and frustrating.

9 Refrain from chit chat before the class

 if the studio is quiet and meditative. It is polite to follow the studio policy.

10 Don’t allow bad personal hygiene to affect the class.

Strong body odours either from unwashed body or from a strong deodorant or perfume can be displeasing for the others.

11 Do not leave the class in the middle of savasana.

If you need to go earlier for a further commitment, do it before savasana. The others should not be interrupted in their last pose because you need to leave earlier.