Yoga Etiquette

Thinking of trying yoga? Any questions that are holding you back? You are not alone! Trying something new can sometimes be intimidating, we are here to help you relax and feel more prepared for your first class. Understanding basic yoga class etiquette will help you feel more comfortable during your practice. Most of the following tips are simple common sense and courtesy, but there are certain manners that are specific to yoga classes and studios. Practicing silence, self-awareness, and respect to the teacher and other students will help to ensure that your yoga experience will be beneficial and stress-free.

1. Reserve your place in class at minimum a few hours before class start time.
We are a boutique studio, and only have space for up to 12 students in each class. By signing up in advance, this helps your instructor to be best prepared in their sequence as well as to set up the studio space according to the class's size.

2. Arrive 5-10 min prior to your class start time.
Timely arrival ensures you have time to remove shoes and set aside belongings, set up your mat and retrieve any props, and to be comfortable at class start.

3. Please, remove your Shoes upon entry to the studio.
Shoes off please! Shoes / Socks are not used in the practice of yoga. We do our best to ensure a clean floor and yoga space, and less footprints minimize dirt.

4. Be sure your cell phone is off.
Placing your phone on silent ensures a silent, quiet space for all yogis.

5. Respect the sequence.
Creating a 'home yoga practice' is a time to do your own freestyle routine. While practicing in class at a studio, follow your instructors cues / directions while listening to your own body's limits or desires for depth within a pose. Please be sure to let your instructor know about any injuries or conditions (such as pregnancy, recent surgeries, or even simple aches/pains) that may affect your positioning in a practice. Your instructor will provide you with appropriate modifications. Otherwise, allow yourself to trust the process and your instructor by practicing the poses in the sequence being taught.

6. Practice Cleanliness.
The Yogic principle of saucha, which means "cleanliness" or "purity." Reminds us that personal hygiene is an integral part of practicing yoga. Ensure that you and your mat are clean before practice. Further, please wear deodorant, avoid wearing heavy fragrances, smoking prior to class, or arriving to class very sweaty / post workout.

7. Honor where you are.
The practice of yoga truly meets us where we are in terms of flexibility, strength, alignment, and spirituality. For your safety, and out of respect to your instructor and other students - do not join in on a class that is beyond your current level. No forcing to hold or attain a pose, there is a modification for all postures. Remember that yoga is not about touching your toes, it is the journey on the way down.

8. Please return your props after practice.
If you've used blocks, straps or a studio blanket, wipe and place them back on our shelves after class ends. If you borrowed a mat from the studio, wipe it down before returning it.