​Yoga etiquette

Yoga becomes more and more popular and some type of Yoga etiquette is already established for in person and online classes. Whether you’re new to Yoga or you need to refresh your memories on the basics, here are some general tips for smooth and pleasant practice both for you and the other practitioners. 

  • If there is no special remark in the schedule, the classes are suitable for both beginners and practitioners that are more experienced.  All ages and levels are welcome. 
  • Listen to your body and don‘t push yourself. Yoga is a personal experience, don‘t compete with others.
  • Don‘t be afraid to talk to the teacher before and after the class – every teacher would be happy to explain, give advice and encourage you. If the class is online - don't hesitate to email the teacher before the class.
  • Let your teacher know before class if you have any injuries, health issues, or pregnancy.
  • Remove your shoes and socks - Yoga is practised with bare feet, and most yoga studios prefer shoes to be kept in the lobby or in an area close to the studio entrance. Of course, wearing warm socks is also okay.
  • Mind your space, mind your steps. Make room for the other practitioners and respect their space. Avoid walking on other practitioners mats.
  • Select your clothing based on what would be most comfortable for the class. Avoid clothing that is too baggy and loose as well as clothing that is too tight or revealing.  
  • Arrive early for in person classes. To avoid being late, aim to arrive 5-10 minutes before the class is scheduled to start; this gives you time to relax, breathe, and settle in. If you have a few extra minutes before the class begins, just enjoy this unforeseen rest. If you can’t help being a few minutes late, wait outside the class until any opening meditations and mind centring have ended. Please, have in mind that the different venues have different rules. Please, check them prior to the class.
  • Set your practice space before the class start if you are joining a live streamed class (online). Prepare your yoga mat, a warm blanket/scarf, a pillow. Livestreaming starts usually 5 min. before the beginning of the class.
  • Keep quiet in the Yoga room before the class begins and find your peace before practice.
  • If you have to leave earlier, please let your teacher know before the class begins. Try to find a place close to the door, and be sure to leave before the final relaxation begins. When it’s time to leave, pack up and scoot out as quietly as you can.
  • Silence your cell phone. Make a habit of doing this as soon as you get to yoga class.
  • Try eating lightly few hours before class starts.
  • Try not to drink water during the class, but have some before and after. 

In person classes - the venues

•      At the venues where the public/group classes are held, you will find mats, blankets, cushions and changing rooms. Please, clean the mats after use, a mat spray is provided by the venues. Bringing an own mat/towel is highly appreciated. 
•      Tea and water are also available in the venues.
•      Please, have in mind that the different venues have different house rules. Please, check them prior the class.

Online classes

•    The online classes that I offer have been live-streamed via Google Meet - a free Google application. Few hours before the class starts you receive a link for the stream in your inbox. No apps need to be installed - you just have to click on the link 5 min. before the class starts and wait until the teacher admit your access. 
•     Set your practice space before the class starts. Prepare your yoga mat, a warm blanket/scarf, a pillow. Livestreaming starts usually 5 min. before the beginning of the class.
•     Please consider that once the class has started, the teacher cannot reply to messages or check emails. If you have any questions, try to send them at least 15-20 min. prior the class or ask them when the streaming has started. 
•    You are free to turn off your camera during the class, but have in mind that seeing how you practice is important for the teacher - it would help adjusting the pace if needed and/or give variations.
•     Never hesitate to turn on your microphone and ask a question during an online class. Notify the teacher if there are any disruptions with the connection or the sound.
•     Last, but not least: practicing from home is way more challenging than practicing in a studio - so many disruptions around, family members, pets, household chores, TV working next room, the washing machine spinning... Please, never ever feel ashamed of  interrupting your practice or of having someone around while practicing. That's life and yoga is about that - teaching us how to deal with such situations with ease, love and kindness.