A yoga studio is likely one of the most open & inclusive spaces you’ll ever visit. But yet, there are still subtle nuances seen from the outside that may seem unwelcoming.
It is most important to note that, figuratively speaking, there are no rules in yoga. I fully understand that concept is difficult grasp. We gravitate towards function and structure. There are no rules simply because everyone who walks into a group class is in such a different place: physically, mentally and emotionally. Yoga is accessible to all of these places. Rules would restrict that accessibility.
That being said, a yoga studio is treated as a sacred space. Formalities tend to be learned through observed behavior rather than plastered all over the walls. Unwelcoming is far from judgmental. Believe me when I say there are no rules to attend a group yoga class. But, I also know that many are afraid they will be judged because they don’t know the rules (spoken or unspoken) and shy away.
Here are 5 things to expect before attending your first yoga class:
1. The regulars will be there 10 minutes before class starts.
Most group classes are between 60-75 minutes. This may seem exaggerated to you, but for routine practitioners, this is just barely scratching the surface. We know what to expect and want to maximize the time we share with our teacher. We arrive early to settle in and shed away anything barring weight (as much as possible). Arriving 10 minutes early allows our bodies land and minds to pause. Some do this by moving while others find stillness. We are getting into our zone.
BUT this does not mean we aren’t willing to talk or share a welcoming smile! One of the fundamental principles of a practice is drawing one’s focus inward and removing any external stimulus. This also means it is a part of the warm up and our closed-off presence is not to exclude or shut you out, it is to bring undivided attention to ourselves. Say something, ask a question and we’ll snap out of our zone because welcoming new practitioners to the practice is an honor. Also, come early and join us. Running into a class flustered is challenging. Give yourself space to settle and open your heart.
2. The markers on the floor help space our mats apart.
They are usually little 90 degree angles to help line up the front edge of your mat. Yoga studios range in all shapes and sizes, but if possible, will allow as many practitioners as possible fit into the space. Sometimes, this means 2 inches to the right/left, front/back of your neighbors. But these neighbors aren’t the ones you build a fence for privacy, they are the ones you invite over for dinner at least once a week.
We are your community and support system. It may be close quarters in terms of physical space, but if anything that encourages you to draw deeper into your own personal, mental space. Use those markers! Any if there aren’t any, cozy up to a neighbor, staggering the front edge of your mat ever so slightly. This helps when we are in poses where our appendages reach out past the confines of the mat, avoiding an accidently smack or kick!
3. Please silence all electronic devices.
Like I said earlier, a studio is a sacred space. One that allows you to separate from any external stimulus. Our electronic devices are easily the most stimulating part of our daily life. Please, for yourself, silence your devices. Turn off even any vibrations that may pull your focus anywhere else but your practice. Looking at your phone, or even smart watch, immediately takes you away from this sacred space. But, as a reminder, it is a practice. It may be uncomfortable to focus on one’s self for such an extended period of time, but once you get comfortable, you might even leave your phone in the car during class!
4. It’s not a competition.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. Yoga is so much more than a physical practice. To this date, I haven’t met anyone who started their yoga practice for physical activity that didn’t end up discovering a much deeper value. I, and all yogis alike, embrace all who are willing to try as it is clearly a part of your journey regardless of what gets you through the door. But, let it be known that although you may be competing with everyone in the room, no one is competing with you. There are no winners in yoga. And more importantly, there are no losers. We don’t idealize extra push-ups in chaturanga, getting two extra vinyasas in before meeting in downward dog, etc. Don’t look to us fellow students for approval, look to yourself decide if that’s what you need. I’m willing to bet, if you truly look inward, it’s not.
5. At the end of class we thank our teacher.
I say this as a student rather than a teacher. As a dancer, this was something already ingrained into my formalities but to those who are new, we thank our teacher at the end of class. Whether you had an outer-body experience or it wasn’t your speed, we thank the teacher for their offering. Yoga is an ancient practice that has been diligently taught and now carefully trained to share with all future generations to come. Not just anyone can get up in front of a room full of students to share an ancient offering. We acknowledge that with a thank you.
Still unsure?
Maybe you’ve attended a class or two and still can’t quite figure out the vibe. I’ll say this again and again, we are a community. Ask away! Or join my email list for more insights, tips & tricks: