The Etiquette of Yoga created by Yogachelan. After searching the web for Yoga Etiquette and not finding a complete list, we created our own. We hope this will be helpful to the new student, current student, and teachers of yoga.

Namaste'

The Etiquette of Yoga

Arrive a few minutes before class begins.
Give yourself a moment to relax and calm yourself from the day.  If you arrive just as class is beginning, enter quietly (no jangling keys or snapping the mat out). Entering the class late disrupts the mood of those who arrived on time and would like to experience the class uninterrupted. Furthermore, if the class is full, the entire room must shift to make the accommodation.

Remove shoes upon entering the studio. Leave shoes and items not related to your yoga practice in designated area.

Turn off cell phones.

Don't walk on others mats.  It is not hygienic and some students really honor their yoga mat as their personal place for their yoga practice.

Take care of personal fragrance.  Avoid heavy perfumes and after shaves. If your job requires difficult work and a day's worth of perspiration, bring a fresh shirt to change into. Most studios have limited air space and odors can build quickly.

Wear appropriate clothing.  Clothing that is comfortable is important, but should stay close enough to the body to not embarrass you or others. Remove noisy jewelry.

If you must leave before the end of class, do so before final relaxation begins.  Ending your practice with final relaxation will not only mitigate the effects of stress but will also create a stronger immune system, a quieter mind, and a peaceful sense of self. The end of class is after final relaxation.

If dropping into a class or this is your first time doing yoga introduce yourself to the instructor.  Arrive at least 10 minutes early. The instructor may have questions and forms to complete.

If borrowing a mat, clean and roll it tightly before returning it. Many studios provide mats for students as they begin their yoga practice or for visiting students. Hygienically speaking it is better to have your own mat. Ask your instructor for mat specifications best for you.

Namaste'.  A personal salutation of honor and respect, Namaste' (Nam-ah-stay) has many meanings but most basic is 'the spirit in me honors the spirit in you'. This is often said at the end of a yoga practice first by the instructor and then in response by the students. At the end of practice, turn to face the instructor as a sign of respect, saying Namaste' is always your personal choice.

Avoid monopolizing the instructors time. If you have a lengthy question, or want help with a pose, simply wait until others have left and the instructor has had time to say good byes, then they can give you their undivided attention.