Yoga Studio Etiquette
Another week has past. Life moves so fast when you are busy and having fun. Today, I wanted to talk about Yoga Studio Etiquette. I have taught for many years and have seen all sorts of things happen in a studio. Today, I want to share what you should avoid when heading to the gym or to your studio to practice.
Be on time
I can’t reiterate this enough. Be on time and by on time I mean, before the scheduled class time to start. This allows you to find your spot in the room, and get situated. Do things like go to the bathroom and gather any props you may need.
Stay in the room and on your mat
It is so important to stay present. Sometimes things come up and you have to walk out of the room, but for the most part, try to stay in the room. This also applies to a hot studio. If the heat is too much take child’s pose and feel free to stay there as long as you need. Walking out of the room can be a shock to the system especially when it’s cold outside.
Stay until the end of your practice
The most important part of your practice is the end. Those moments in savasana, that allow your body to absorb all the benefits of your practice. That time is to shut your mind off and meditate. Clear your mind and find stillness before you head out.
Practice good personal HYGIENE
This should go without saying, but this is a friendly reminder to shower and use deodorant. Be mindful that some supplements and medications can also cause odors in a hot studio. Do your best to keep any smells under wraps. Also, wear underwear, I have seen things I did NOT want to see because people weren’t wearing underwear.
Try to keep your voice down
When in the studio try to keep your voice down. I even struggle with this one. I love my students and we have created such a great community that its hard to not catch up before class starts. Especially, when I am making my rounds asking everyone how they are doing and if they have any requests. Do your best to keep your conversations to a minimum.
stay focused on your own practice
It can be easy to get caught up in what your neighbor is doing, but stay focused on your abilities and your own practice. There is no competition in yoga and its a yoga practice not yoga perfect. There is always room for growth and new postures you can learn.
LEave your electronics out of the room
This is a big one. So many people are practicing while they are working or doing other things. The reality is if you miss one call is the world going to end? Is anyone going to question if it takes one hour for you to call them back? This is just a distraction, it doesn’t allow you to be fully present. There are always times when this rule may need to be broken and I understand, but do your best to keep the distractions outside the studio.
If you are a yoga teacher do you have an yoga studio etiquette that really gets on your nerves?
