Class Etiquette
Please aim to arrive 5-10 minutes before class is due to start. Entering class late is disruptive and disrespectful to others. If you do arrive late please enter as quietly as you can. Make a mental note to allow more time to get to class in future. You will benefit more from your class if you arrive in time and unflustered.
Either leave your mobile phone in your car or turn it on to a completely silent setting. Refrain from eating at least 2 hours prior to and 30 minutes after your practice. Drink plenty of water after your practice.
Practice with care and consideration towards yourself and others.
Please stay on your own mat and refrain from assisting other practitioners.
If you have a health issue (illness, injury or medical condition), please let me know before class.
Please stay for the entire class. If you need to leave early, please let me know and make sure you leave quietly before the final relaxation.
It is preferable to practice asanas (postures) in bare feet to avoid slipping on the mat. Socks can be worn during Shavasana (relaxation) if required.
You are welcome to borrow communal mats, though it is more hygienic to bring your own mat. Please consider buying your own. You may also find that having your own mat encourages you to practice yoga at home between classes.
Do not underestimate the effect of Ashtanga yoga. It is a very effective self-therapy for personal development - physically, mentally and spiritually. If you feel emotionally upset during or after a class (joy, sadness, anger etc.) then accept the feelings rather than resist them. You are welcome to speak to me about it after class if you wish to understand more.
Respect your limits. Acknowledge that your body and mind will feel different every day; listen to what your body tells you and practice in your own time following your own breath.
Finally, most classes finish with the gesture and saying of Namaste, a respectful greeting recognizing the equality of all and the sacredness of all.
Namaste
I honour the place in you in which the entire Universe dwells, I honour the place in you which is of Love, of Integrity, of Wisdom and of Peace. When you are in that place in you, and I am in that place in me, we are One.
