New To Yoga ? Why Do Yoga?
Yoga Etiquette & Studio Policies
Understanding basic yoga class etiquette will help you feel more comfortable during your practice. Most of the following tips are simple common sense and courtesy, but there are certain manners that are specific to yoga classes and studios. Practicing silence, self-awareness, and respect to the teacher and other students will help to ensure that your yoga experience will be beneficial and stress-free.
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Before You Arrive
Bring or wear comfortable clothing. No particular clothing is required for your practice, but we recommend that you wear something you can move around in. Avoid clothing that is loose or baggy as it may interfere with certain poses.
Sign up for class online to make your sign in fast and easy, or call to reserve your place in class.
When You Arrive
Please arrive 10-15 minutes before class is scheduled and check in with reception to ensure and confirm your place in class. This will also allow you time to set up a yoga mat and gather any props you might need in the studio, and use the restroom if necessary, prior to class.
Yoga mats, blocks, blankets, straps and bolsters are available in our studio for you to borrow free of charge.
Classes will begin promptly at the designated time. We ask that you arrive on time to honor the space for a mindful practice for yourself and others.
We ask that you leave your personal belongings outside of the yoga room if possible, and mute or turn cellphones off while you are here. We offer a secure space for you to leave any shoes, keys, cellphones or other items.
Please remove your shoes before entering our studio.
Bring your own water bottle if possible. We have a filtered water cooler available for refills and paper cups if needed. (we no longer offer bottled water to reduce plastic waste)
Allow room for others to come into the class. Observe silence before, during, and after practice. If you have questions, ask them prior to the start of class. Refrain from unnecessary talking, especially while the class is in session.
If you are prone to heavy perspiration, please consider bringing a hand towel (available to borrow if needed)
Please understand that some classes are busier than others, especially in the summer months. We ask for your patience and understanding at reception. To ensure your spot in class, we recommend that you sign up for class online. In the busier classes, there may be a wait list; please let us know at least 3 hours prior to class time or your class pass may not be refunded.
Thank you, and we hope that you enjoy your yoga experience with our community here at Centerville Yoga & Wellness Center.
If you have any questions or comments please email Karen, the owner : [email protected] or call 508-775-1422.
During Class
We have yoga mats and props available for use during class, free of charge.
If you have a specific injury or physical concern, let your instructor know prior to class so that they can help you with modifications.
Practicing yoga in a group setting creates a sacred, safe zone. Observe silence before, during, and after practice. Refrain from unnecessary talking,
Please refrain from wearing scented lotions, colognes or perfumes in class.
Stay for savasana. Savasana is a period of deep relaxation and meditation at the end of each yoga class. If you leave before this portion yoga class, you will miss out on one of the most essential and beneficial parts of the practice. If you must leave, please inform the instructor before class begins and excuse yourself quietly.
After Class
If you borrowed a mat, please utilize the antimicrobial wipes that we provide to wipe down your mat before returning.
It takes a village.... Help us clean the room after class by carefully returning your props to their proper places.
Let us know if you have any questions or comments... and we hope to see you again soon!
New to yoga? Stick with it!
- We recommend that you try a minimum of 10 classes to lay down a strong foundation and give yourself a chance to experience the practice of yoga.
- Beginners should try slower-paced classes such as Gentle, Beginner's or Restorative Yoga.
- Consider scheduling a private session with one of our experienced instructors if you are apprehensive about entering a group class, or if you have specific health conditions to address privately.
- Try to stay positive and open about your practice. If you notice that you can’t do something that someone else is doing try not to compare yourself to them, and instead ask the instructor for help. By attending classes regularly you will continue to see your own practice evolve. It’s called a yoga practice for a reason!
Common Yoga Terminology
You may hear words from the language of yoga, Sanskrit, in classes. Click on the words below to get started with some of the basic ones, and always feel free to ask your instructor!
Asana
Yoga Pose/Posture
Drishti
Focal Point, Gaze
Hatha
Literally Sun (ha) and Moon (tha); Hatha yoga is the most known yoga in the west and all western types of yoga formed from this yoga.
Mantra
Repetitive Sound Vibration or Words
Mudra
Gesture; think of it as a hand posture
Namaste
I honor the light within you as I honor the light within me; I bow to you.
Om
Universal Mantra, sound of the universe
Prana/Chi
Energy
Pranayama
Breath Control
Shanti
Peace
Sanskrit
Ancient Indian language. Many historical yoga texts were written in this language and it is the language of yoga terminology, including pose names and chants.
Savasana
Corpse Pose, usually the last pose of a class
Yoga
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Yolk, Union of mind and body