There are numerous benefits that all those who practice yoga stand to gain whenever they attend a class. Getting the most out of a yoga class should be the goal of every yogi. To achieve this, there are general regulations that one should consider. These are some general rules that one should learn along the way as you become a yogi. Everyone in the yoga class is expected to abide by them to ensure harmony in class.
The Do’s
Time Management – It is true that yoga can be done anywhere and at any time. However, there is an old adage that all yoga students are encouraged to follow. This is ‘early to bed, early to rise makes a man wealthy and wise’. The goal of this adage is to help in time management for yoga within your busy schedule.
One of the best times to practice yoga is in the morning after waking up and getting refreshed. However, it is preferable to do yoga before taking a bath, 1 hour after consuming a drink, 3 hours after taking refreshments, and 5 hours after meals.
Taking Breaks – While the goal of being in a class is to follow the teacher’s instructions and keep up with others, take a break whenever you feel it’s necessary. It is not a crime to rest when the practice becomes strenuous. It is important to listen to your body and move at your own pace.
Aeration – If you are practicing yoga in a room alone or with friends, make sure the room is properly aerated. Keep the doors and windows open to allow fresh air to flow in.
Dressing – There are numerous guidelines out there about what is the proper way to dress to a yoga class. That notwithstanding, people are not there to judge you. If you feel like you need to have a few more layers of clothing due to the weather conditions, you should feel free to do so. You can also shed these layers whenever you feel the need to. As long as common rules of decency are observed, feel free to be yourself.
Location – Whether you hold your yoga practice indoors or outdoors, ensure that you use a flat surface; on cement, flat ground, or a mortar floor. Then spread your yoga mat, a carpet, blanket, or cloth on the floor and start your practice.
The Don’ts
Health Precautions for Women – It is advisable that women avoid doing yoga while menstruating or during pregnancy. There are however, specific poses that can help them feel relaxed without straining their bodies.
Avoid Interference – In the modern smart phone and electronic age that we live in, the temptation to wear earphones, headphones, or to take photos during yoga practice is high. However, doing so will cause distractions to others and keep you from concentrating. Avoid texting, answering calls, or doing anything with your electronic gadget that may distract others.
Talking in Class – There are no strict rules that no one should talk to one another in class. However, regular chatting during a class is disrespectful. Do it before the class begins or wait until the class is over.
General Hygiene – If you borrow or use any material from the studio, it would be wrong to leave them unkempt or disorganized after class. If you use a mat, towel, straps, or blocks, leave them in their proper storage places for the sake of those who will use them later.
These are simple regulations that help yogis run their practice properly and accommodate everyone.
