Yoga Etiquette
Namaste—by now most of you yogis know the meaning of the word. Just in case you don’t, it means: “The Divine in me recognizes and honors the Divine in you.” In India, people use “Namaste” as a greeting or an acknowledgement of another person. In our studio, we end each class with a “Namaste”—a fitting acknowledgement at the end of a practice that helps to bring out the Divine in each of us. Perhaps at this point you are thinking “Namaste” is the studio’s theme of the month, but it is not. There is, however, a strong connection between it and the actual theme: “Yoga Etiquette.” Curious? Please read on:
By keeping the definition of “Namaste” in mind, the connection between it and “Yoga Etiquette” becomes clear. It is when you are aware of the divinity, or sacredness, of yourself and others, that you naturally want to show respect to everyone around you. At Being Yoga, our goal is to inspire the conscious recognition of the Divine in each of us. This consciousness, in turn, promotes respectful and mindful behavior towards others in the studio and creates a peaceful environment and sanctuary for all. This is what “Yoga Etiquette” is about.
For example, it is respectful to show up to class early; that way, there is time to make adjustments with our mats so that each student can find the most advantageous spot for him/herself possible—even in a full class.
By taking off shoes before entering the yoga room and taking belongings back to the locker room, students are consciously aiding in keeping the studio clean and uncluttered for everyone’s comfort and wellbeing.
Carefully opening and quietly closing doors that lead in and out of the yoga room shows respect for those meditating inside—as do quiet, hushed voices before and after class. (Turning off cell phones before entering the studio is the best way to avoid disturbing the peaceful atmosphere at Being Yoga.)
It is respectful to stay on your mat during the entire class, but if you must leave and/or come back, please do so between postures as silently and unobtrusively as possible.
Following the dialogue as closely as possible to the best of your ability (not branching off into different postures, for example), helps to keep a unified environment for all. Remember, this is as much a meditation class as it is a physical activity. Each of us helps the other stay focused by moving together in sequence.
Finally, take responsibility of your own thoughts and emotions. You can’t always control outside circumstances, but you always have the option of controlling your reactions to those circumstances. By concentrating on your own practice, giving it your best and staying calm inside, you are contributing a focused, peaceful energy to the entire class. Similarly, changing your internal language from negative (“I can’t”) to positive “I’ll try”), contributes a positive energy as well.
Our Being Yoga goal of creating a sacred environment—a warm and welcoming space—for a conscious community becomes a reality each time we “recognize and honor” the Divine in each other and consciously practice our “Yoga Etiquette.” Namaste.