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Yoga Class Etiquette Yoga Class Etiquette

Yoga class etiquette is pretty basic: Enter quietly, practice quietly (unless you are in a kundalini yoga class, it’s a bit noisy there), and leave the space quietly (and leave it the way you found it). So, to be a bit more specific, most yoga teachers and students greatly appreciate when you observe the following guidelines:

  1. Please, please, turn off your cell phone. A ringing phone can bring on a pavlovian-type response in even the most experienced yogi.

  2. Clothing Tips: Wear clothes that are loose fitting enough that you can do a split (hey, you never know, this could be the day), but not so loose that you become lost in the folds. If you choose to wear shorts (particularly smart for the hot yoga classes), make sure your shorts cover enough skin and stick to your body enough that you won’t, um, show the world what your mama gave you. A sports bra for women (or men, if you are so inclined) comes in handy during inversions.

  3. Take off your shoes and socks. You don’t want to carry street coodies into the practice room.

  4. Bring a bottle of water (some studios sell water, but better to be safe than sorry!)

  5. It is highly recommended you bring your own mat. Most studios do not wash their mats daily, and there are all sorts of fungi lurking in between toes (not yours of course, but, you know, the other people’s toes….:-)

  6. Generally, do not call out in class and DO NOT have conversations with your neighbor. The attitude in class is quiet and respectful. Save the “omg, where on earth did you get that cool top with the cute little OM symbol?” for post-class socializing.

  7. It is best to finish your last meal 1 ½ to 2 hours prior to class. You will deeply regret not observing this one.

  8. Most of all, remember to bring your sense of adventure to class. Some teachers may start or end their class with a chant, such as OM. Don’t be shy about joining in, this isn’t American Idol out-takes. Just follow instruction, listen and follow the lead of the teacher. Most importantly, listen to and “watch” your own body and breath!

~Namaste~
  



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