When I was writing my last blog post about yoga and personal hygiene it occurred to me that yoga classes in Mumbai – and elsewhere – ought to have certain rules or accepted norms of behavior that makes class more pleasant for the instructor as well as the students. Apart from personal hygiene, there are other little do’s and don’ts; yoga class etiquette and courtesies that make yoga class more enjoyable and fruitful.
There is no such requirement for a yoga class online. However, when you do find a yoga class near you where several people get together on a regular basis to practice this discipline of holistic wellness, it makes sense to observe some of these yoga class etiquette … not rules; I would call them suggestions:
- Greetings – Greet your instructor as you walk into class; acknowledge them as well as others you have gotten to know in class. Be pleasant and courteous – it makes for a cordial and convivial atmosphere in class.
- Try not to be late – Make it a point not to be late. If traffic is usually an issue, start a little early; it is courteous to be on time. That said, there could be times when one is late due to something unavoidable. In such cases, it is best to enter quietly and to settle down with as little disruption as possible.
- No noise please – I would say that the practice of yoga is exercise certainly; but it is also aimed at stress reduction and the attainment of serenity. One tries to leave behind the hurly burly of everyday life and appreciate the calm quietude of a yoga class. For the yoga class duration, try to avoid chatting and gossip and avoid making noise with the yoga mat, water bottle, bag or any other equipment.
- Develop a spirit of cooperation – If someone is not able to perform an aasan, try not to be impatient or laugh at their efforts. That can be humiliating for a person who may be trying their best. Be encouraging and supportive instead. Perhaps you would appreciate such an effort from another person as well?
- Don’t be hesitant to approach the instructor – If you have any questions about your progress trajectory or other issues about the class or other students, do approach the instructor and share them. It is always a good idea to keep channels of communication open and to clear the air. And if you are pleased with what you gain from your class and see an improvement if your fitness levels, energy levels or overall wellbeing, do share that with your instructor as well. This appreciation is what keeps us going!
- Clear up after you – If you’re bringing your own yoga mat, well and good. If you use the ones provided by the class, do be sure to fold and put it away in its proper place. Do the same with yoga bricks and resistance bands if you use those as well.
- Remember it’s not a competition – We all have our own strengths and weaknesses. We are not here to impress anyone, but to practice yoga to develop a better body and a more evolved mind. So don’t try to push yourself beyond your limits and don’t try to impress anyone; not even the teacher! Yoga is something that you do for your own wellbeing; respect and remember that!
- A few other little courtesies – If possible, do put your phone on silent while you are in class. If there is an urgent call that you have to take, do step outside for it so as not to disturb others in class.