Yoga Studio Etiquette: Tips from a Fellow Yogi aka: Don’t be ‘That Person’

Yoga studios aren’t just rooms with mats—they’re sacred spaces where we come to find balance, peace, and maybe even a little clarity. To help everyone enjoy their practice, it’s important to follow some basic etiquette. Whether you’re new to yoga and literally have no idea what the protocol is or have been practicing for years but might not be the most mindful, here are some tips to keep in mind. Trust me, as a fellow yogi, these little habits make a big difference for everyone in the space!

Entering the Studio: Setting the Tone

• Pay Upon Arrival: As you enter, the first thing you’ll do is pay, at Vallarta Breeze Yoga there’s a window to the left. This helps us keep everything organized and allows you to transition smoothly into your practice.
• Take Your Shoes Off in the Entry: At Vallarta Breeze Yoga, we’re lucky to have a dedicated entry area to the right with a bench and swings before stepping into the practice space. Other places may have space outside the door or something similar. This is where you leave your shoes behind—literally and figuratively. Think of it as leaving the outside world behind as you step into your practice.
• Leave the Outside Noise Behind: Yoga is a time to tune out the distractions of the outside world and tune in to your deeper self. Save political or controversial discussions for after class—keeping the studio a peaceful sanctuary helps us all focus on mindfulness and connection.
• Silence Your Phone: We’ve all been there—a text or notification goes off mid-class. It’s a quick fix: switch your phone to silent.
• Arrive On Time: Getting to class a little early lets you settle in and center yourself. Plus, arriving on time honors the effort that the studio puts into preparing the space for you—creating a welcoming atmosphere that ensures your practice begins stress-free and uninterrupted. If you do run late, enter quietly and wait for an appropriate moment to join. If the door is locked, you have missed your opportunity to participate in class.

During Class: Creating Harmony

• Stay Present—Physically and Mentally: Unless it’s an emergency, like spontaneous combustion, stay in the room for the entire class. Leaving mid-practice can disrupt the focus and flow for both the teacher and other students, showing a lack of respect for their time and effort. We’re not in kindergarten—we’re all capable of planning and managing our bodily needs ahead of time to ensure an uninterrupted practice. Staying engaged is the most fundamental way of honoring the collective energy we’ve all put into class.
• Follow the Teacher’s Guidance: Each class is a journey led by the teacher, and following their instructions keeps the group in sync. Straying from the flow of the class can be distracting to others and takes away from the collective experience we’re all sharing. Even if you have a killer headstand in your repertoire, or you feel like your ideas are better than the teachers, save your personal practices for another time.
• Respect Personal Space and Mats: Yoga mats are a personal sanctuary for each student. Avoid stepping on or touching any mat that isn’t yours. It’s a simple gesture of respect for someone else’s space and practice.
• Be Mindful of Makeup: Many of us want to look our best, but makeup can transfer onto mats and props, leaving stains that are really tough to remove. Consider using minimal or no makeup before class— If you are coming to class in full glamour mode, you may consider bringing a cloth to place between your beautiful masterpiece and the mat/props – it’s a small step that helps keep the studio fresh and clean for everyone and saves a load of time for the folks in charge of cleaning the props.

A Fellow Yogi’s Experiences

One time during the Opening Meditation, I was sinking into that perfect moment of relaxation when someone walked in late, shuffling around to find a spot. It jolted me right out of my Zen and ultimately set a poor tone for class. I’ve also been in classes where someone stepped onto my mat without a second thought—it felt so invasive, like they’d entered my bubble of calm and wiped their feet right where I’d later put my face! And the time someone got up and left in the middle of practice, breaking everyone’s focus, to use the bathroom and then returned a few minutes later disturbing the space again while they got situated! The movement was impossible to ignore, and it completely drew my attention away from the practice. Moments like these remind me how small disruptions can ripple through the whole class—and how they could all be completely avoided with a little mindfulness and respect for others.

Registration: Keeping Things Smooth

• Pre-register: At Vallarta Breeze Yoga, all of our classes require reservations. We pre-set the studio space with mats and props for each student, ensuring everything is ready for you when you arrive. Reserving your spot ahead of time helps us create a stress-free and organized experience for everyone.

General Considerations: Being Mindful Beyond the Mat

• Dress for Comfort: Wear clothing that allows you to move freely and feel comfortable. Bonus points if it’s breathable.
• Stay Fresh: A quick shower or freshening up before class is a win for everyone.
• Respect Privacy: Yoga is a personal journey for many. Keep conversations light and supportive, and save unsolicited advice for another time.

Why It All Matters

Yoga studio etiquette isn’t about rules—it’s about mindfulness and creating a space where everyone feels welcome and respected. When we all do our part, it enhances the experience for everyone, from the first-time student to the lifelong yogi.

So, the next time you roll into class, keep these tips in mind. Together, we can help our studio remain the serene sanctuary we all love. Namaste! 🙏

Whether you’re looking to dive deeper into the Yoga Sutras, The Vedas, Upanishads or would like to explore our blog, we have a wealth of information available for you! Better yet, join us in the Vallarta Breeze Yoga Puerto Vallarta Yoga studio, or practice with us online! we’re excited to continue this journey with you. See you on the mat!

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