Yoga Etiquette

When I enter the Yoga studio I immediately have the urge to speak in a whisper and tip toe around and when practice begins I feel as if it is only right to follow along at the pace of the Yogi.  These are only a couple of courtesy mannerisms I feel at the Yoga studio.  If you feel this way also, you are correct to, much like a library and driving on the road there are a few Yoga etiquettes you should follow when in the studio and during practice.  Being new to Yoga however I wasn't quite sure what the etiquettes were and found myself at times to be uncomfortable, afraid I was doing the wrong thing or being rude, so finally I decided to take action and look up Yoga etiquettes, this is what I found, I hope you find this information helpful as well.

*About.com
1.  Remove Your Shoes

Many yoga studios have a place for your shoes by the front door.  Since people will be walking around the studio barefoot, it is most hygienic if everyone takes off their outdoor shoes first thing.

2.  Turn Off Your Cell Phone

3.  Arrive On Time

Arrive at least 10 minutes before the class is scheduled to start.  If you do arrive late, don't enter a class more than 10 minutes late if it has already started.  Wait for the next class or another day.

4.  Respect the Teacher

You may discover halfway through the class that you don't care for this teacher, style, or hour of the day.  But you still should continue with the class, follow the teacher's instructions, take your Savasana, and chalk it up to experience.

5.  Keep Variations Appropriate

Keep in mind the level fo the class you are attending.  If it is an advanced class and some of the poses are too hard, it is fine to take a more basic variation of the poses being taught.  Usually the teacher will offer this option.  If you are attending a basic class, stick to the basic versions of the poses so you don't confuse new students.  The teacher will offer you the option to take a more advanced variation when appropriate.

When it comes time to take a vinyasa, always feel free to take either Knees, Chest, and Chine and Cobra or Chaturanga and Updog.

6.  Go to the Bathroom During Resting Poses

The best time to go is when there is a period of rest, either in Child's Pose or Downward Dog.

7.  Don't Skip Savasana!

Your final relaxation in Savasana is an important part of your practice.  Don't plan to leave class early.  If you must, tell the teacher in advance and take a short Savasana before you go.