Choose a class that serves your needs.

There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to yoga, as there are many different types of classes and styles of yoga to choose from. Individuals who are new to yoga should do a bit of research and find a class description that aligns with their individual interests, goals, and needs. For example, if you are seeking something a bit more athletic and want to sweat, look for words like “strong” and “power” in the class description. Alternatively, if your objective is to re­lax and restore, find a description that matches those de­sires, such as a gentle flow or restorative class.

*new students e-mail Hello@mygreenyogi.com to ask about best class options *

Arrive early.

Especially if it’s your first class. This allows time to find a space, unroll your mat and collect your props (any blankets, bolsters, blocks or straps you may want to modify poses) without disturbing anyone. It also gives you an opportunity to begin tuning into your inner landscape. If you are late, wait until after the teacher’s opening ritual — it could be a reading, a breathing exercise, a meditation, a sequence of oms — before entering; otherwise you are interrupting the class while the other students are trying to get grounded.
You may not be allowed into class if you arrive more than 15 minutes after the class starts.

Plan to stay for the whole class.

If you must leave early, let the teacher know, and quietly exit before savasana, the period of final relaxation at the end of class. Again, this is to not disturb your classmates during a key part of class — experts often say savasana is the most important and challenging pose in yoga.

Whether coming or going, try not to step on anyone’s mat.

Leave your shoes in the cubicles provided. Yoga is practiced on the floor, and tracking in dirt makes the studio unclean. In addition, the concept of grounding — literally and figuratively is very important in yoga — it’s simply easier to ground yourself if your feet are making direct contact with the floor.

Devices are a no-no.

Leave your cell phone and smart watch with your belongings. Have your cell phone either off or on airplane mode. This is so you can fully disconnect and others won’t be disturbed. If, for some reason, being fully disconnected is not an option for you because of a potential emergency (children are sick, you are on call for work, etc) please let the teacher know and you can leave your cell phone next to you on silent. If during class you need to take a phone call or text because of an emergency, please leave the studio space and address the emergency outside of the studio.

Come equipped.

Bring a water bottle, a towel, and, if possible, your own mat. We offer a water fountain to fill your water bottle up. Consider being well hydrated prior to attending class. A towel may be used in a heated/sweaty class and can also be used as a prop to keep your head level during savasana or as a clean layer over a communal yoga mat. We do have yoga mats to borrow as needed. Please clean the mat after use with our mat cleaning spray.

Take a shower prior to practicing yoga.

The first of the five niyamas in Patanjai’s yoga sutras is “saucha,” which can be translated as cleanliness. For our purposes we will assume Patanjali is referring to bodily cleanliness, which may be the first step to more subtle and enlightened forms of cleanliness or purity. This is a very important observance for both students and teachers of yoga. Please be considerate of your teacher and fellow students by bathing, brushing your teeth, washing your hair, and using a clean mat and a clean towel. Remember that you’re subjecting those around you to your personal biome. Please make it a tidy and pleasant one.

Avoid perfume or scented lotion.

These can be distracting for fellow students who are sensitive to fragrances. Some yoga instructors may use incense or essential oils to set moods.

Dress for success.

Wear clothing appropriate for the class. You want something comfortable that you can move in that isn’t prone to a wardrobe malfunction or to bunching up and getting in your way: think stretchy, breathable fabrics.

Got a cold - stay home.

Feeling under the weather? Then it’s best to Stay off the mat, or at least stay home. In a yoga studio you are in very close, enclosed proximity with sometimes 30-40+ other people who would rather not get sick. Be considerate of others, take care of yourself and feel better before returning to the yoga studio.

Let the instructor know about any physical issues and preferences.

If you have a problem such as a bad back or a frozen shoulder, or if you prefer not to receive any hands-on assists (this is when a teacher touches a student to improve their alignment or make them more comfortable), let the instructor know before class.

Doing your own thing.

Yoga teachers may remind you to modify poses, especially if you are working with an injury or a weakness. They will also invite you to challenge yourself with slightly longer holds or more strenuous versions of the pose that they are cueing. However, disregarding all cues and completely doing your own sequence of poses is not respectful to the teacher. If you want to do your own thing, enjoy your own practice at home.

Clean up after class.

Once the class has ended, it is expected that you clean up after yourself. If you borrowed a mat, then be sure to wipe it down after the class using the sanitizing spray. Neatly put any props you used away and be sure that the space around your mat is clean and tidy.

Emotions on the move.

The yoga practice often helps us to release pain and discomfort in the body, mind or spirit. The body might release emotions in many different ways in many different forms. You may hear emotions come up in practice. If you do hear emotions, please support yourself, and the greater community with your breath and practice being compassionate.

Respect the sacred space.

People come to yoga for many reasons. Some go for a workout or more appropriately, a “work-in”. Others use the practice as a way to process emotions. Still others experience yoga as their spiritual practice. Many see the yoga space as a sanctuary, a safe space where they go to connect with themselves physically, emotionally, and spiritually, to de-stress, to feel a sense of community with other people. Likewise, some may have insecurities about their bodies. The last thing people need is to feel like the yoga space is a pick up joint. Please be mindful and respect the sacred space.

Be aware of your presence and how you interact with other people.

During your practice the focus should be inward. Practicing yoga in a group setting creates a sacred, safe zone. The yoga studio is a place where all people should feel safe and be able to explore and be vulnerable. Observe silence during class. Allow room for other students to come in and move your mat as needed. Never adjust the lights, fans, windows, or thermostat without permission.

Be respectful. To the instructor, to the other students and to yourself.