Yoga Etiquette...10 do's and don'ts

Have you ever been on your mat and each time you open your lungs and inhale into updog, you think you might barf from the smell wafting through the air? Been sitting quietly on your mat before class and someone decides they need to tell you something really important just before your practice begins?  Or you're in the middle of Sun Salutation A when a student interrupts, flops their mat onto yours and requests you make space for them? Now I realize these are wonderful opportunities to come to your breath and really practice yoga but these are also unnecessary since yoga can be challenging enough without these unfortunate experiences. There are certain behaviors and courtesies that help make our experience in the yoga studio and on our mats a little sweeter; there are others that make it just a bit unpleasant or even slightly repulsive. I'm referring to Yoga Etiquette. Below you'll find a list of just some of the things to keep in mind to improve the yoga environment and help you avoid becoming a social pariah at the studio.
10 do's
1. Arrive 15 minutes prior to class.
2. Come hydrated and prepared, with a mat, towel, and water.
3. Eat something light 3-4 hours before you practice.
4. Shower (or at least a sponge bath) before class, a clean sweat is the best kind.
5. Follow the elevator rule; wait until the students from the prior class exit the room before charging in to get "your" spot.
6. Set an intention to be kind and compassionate to all those you come in contact with (even the one who took "your" spot )
7. Use the bathroom before class starts. ***exception: If you need to go number 2, wait til everyone else is in class and always do a "courtesy" flush.
8. If you are talking with others before a class starts, keep the volume to a minimum, a whisper if you will.
9. Place your mat in a spot that makes sense for the whole room and be flexible about sharing your space or moving your mat to accommodate others.
10. If you need to leave early, let the teacher know before class, exit the room before other students come into Savasana and always make sure to take Savasana for yourself before you go.

10 (oh, I beg of you) Don'ts
1. Don't come with stinky stuff. Smell your clothes, mat, and towel at the end of every class. If they smell like "ass", go home and throw them away or soak them in white vinegar with hot water for at least 7 hours. It often takes the heat and humidity to know what odors are lurking. If you are unsure, ask someone you trust to take a whiff.
2. Avoid eating garlic or anything with garlic at least 12 hours prior to class.
3. Don't use the studio as a your primary pick-up joint (unless its a Singles Yoga Workshop). Its okay to look and be friendly but avoid becoming a predator.
4. If you arrive late, don't disrupt the teacher or students in the middle of a flow. Stand or sit near the door quietly until there is a break or the students have stopped flowing. You may then kindly ask someone if they will fit you in and give thanks.
5. Don't put your hands on other people in class. If a teacher asks you to adjust someone else, you may use your own discretion but don't take it upon yourself to touch other students (unless of course you have prior mutual consent).
6. Avoid wearing clothes that reveal your gennys or are prone to an areola peek-a-boo show. No one needs to see how big (or little) your privates are.
7. Don't verbally instruct the person next to you how to do poses. You can always just be an example by slowing down and letting them follow.
8. Don't decide to have a chit-chat during a class. If you need to have a conversation, wait until after class and then be mindful of what you discuss in the studio. Avoid gossiping and critiquing students and teachers. Its not good for anyone.
9. Leave your phone out of the studio if possible. Inform those that need to know where you will be in case they need to reach you. Of course there are exceptions.
1o. Don't feel like you are an outsider or don't belong...we are all exactly where we are supposed to be.
Namaste-

~ the thoughts and opinions expressed above are solely mine and are in no way a reflection of those who are more highly evolved