Yoga Etiquette

Yoga is awesome. The problem is that it is practiced almost exclusively by humans. We are by nature fallible creatures. Despite our mostly good intentions, human beings have the innate capacity to ruin almost anything, a Yoga class being no exception. While I doubt that anyone goes into a class with the expressed intent to be a nuisance, it does happen. Often it occurs inadvertently. Usually the issue is either a lack of self-awareness, or a lack of experience. Some people are unaware how their actions impact those around them. Others are unfamiliar with the unspoken rules of the practice.

Being a Yogi involves more than just practicing Yoga. It also means that you conduct yourself with a sense of decorum. It implies that you know how to properly share a Yoga studio with other people. In an effort to make class a more enjoyable experience for all participants, here is my unofficial guide to Yoga Etiquette. All of my recommendations are based on things I have encountered in my years of practicing and teaching. This is all subjective. I am by no means an authoritative source. Draw whatever lessons you can from my observations and disregard those you don’t agree with.

1. Be Subtle:

When I practice Yoga, I like being surrounded by inconspicuous people. If possible, I try and place my mat a respectful distance from the other students. I don’t really care what others do, so long as it is not too distracting to me. I think the key is to exercise a sense of moderation whenever possible. Be aware that too much of anything can be annoying. For example, breathing in a deep and audible manner is fine and should be encouraged. That being said, I don’t necessarily need to hear your breath if we are situated on opposite corners of the studio. On another note, modifying the practice to suit your level of skill is great. Doing a completely different routine than everyone else is a distraction. There is also a time and a place for grunting. Sometimes a Yoga studio is not the ideal location. If nothing else, at least reserve any grunting for the really difficult poses when it is truly warranted.

2. Be Punctual:

It’s basically a given that Yoga classes do not start right on time. There is usually some leeway between the scheduled start time and the actual beginning of class. Those few extra minutes allow any last-minute arrivals to get set up without interrupting those who made it on time. So long as you arrive within that grace period at the start of class, everything is cool. We all know that the parking situation in Encinitas is less-than-ideal. At one time or another we’ve all have trouble finding an open spot. Just try to plan ahead, knowing the lot might be jam-packed with vehicles. Everyone is going to be late on occasion, just don’t make a habit of it.

3. Practice Cleanliness:

While this is good advice outside of a Yoga studio, it is particularly helpful within one. Anytime you have a group of people exercising together in a confined space, the issue of personal hygiene is going to come up. Yoga is a much more pleasant experience for everyone involved when people adhere to a certain standard of cleanliness. At the very least, try to wear clean clothes, bathe regularly, use deodorant, and trim your toe and fingernails. If you happen to be a person who sweats a lot, bring a towel and use it accordingly. One last note, bear in mind that Yoga mats can get pretty nasty with repeated use. A few sprays of mat cleaner every now and then goes a long way.

4. Keep an open mind:

I don’t always like the routine, the teaching style, or the actual person who is leading a particular class. There are plenty of poses that I do not care for. I am not always on board with the playlist. Needless to say, I have certain preferences when it comes to Yoga. I am also well aware that my preferences are my own. They are not universally shared. I therefore try to approach each class with an open mind. I do my best to be agreeable to whatever that instructor is trying to accomplish. Teaching Yoga is a tough job and it is difficult to please everyone. Being a good sport regardless of your own personal feelings is a healthy attitude to develop, both for Yoga and for life in general.

One final note on Yoga etiquette, it also applies to those waiting for class to start and those packing up to leave. Be mindful that any conversations in the lobby can be heard in the studio. If you want to chat before or after class, the area out front of the studio is a perfect spot. There is a bench with really comfortable pillows to sit on. Also keep in mind that the door to Vinyasa Arts can be quite loud when it slams shut. If you are arriving or leaving when a class is in session, try and shut it gently so as not to disturb anyone. Thanks for all your help making our studio a great place to practice!