Code of Conduct for Yoga Classes
1. Purpose
This Code of Conduct outlines the expectations for all teachers and students participating in yoga classes. Its purpose is to ensure a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment that promotes learning, growth, and well-being.
2. Responsibilities of Teachers
Teachers are expected to:
- Professionalism
- Arrive on time, prepared, and appropriately dressed.
- Conduct classes responsibly, ensuring the physical and emotional safety of students.
- Use inclusive and respectful language.
- Avoid any behavior that could be perceived as discriminatory, harassing, or inappropriate.
- Competence
- Teach within their level of training and expertise.
- Stay informed about best practices in yoga instruction, including modifications for different abilities.
- Boundaries
- Obtain explicit consent before offering hands-on adjustments.
- Maintain professional boundaries at all times.
- Confidentiality
- Respect the privacy of students by not sharing personal information disclosed during classes.
- Ethical Practice
- Refrain from promoting personal beliefs, products, or services unrelated to yoga without prior agreement.
3. Responsibilities of Students
Students are expected to:
- Respect
- Treat teachers and fellow students with respect and kindness.
- Refrain from disruptive behavior or language.
- Safety
- Inform the teacher of any injuries, health conditions, or limitations prior to class.
- Listen to their body and take rests or modifications as needed.
- Attendance
- Arrive on time to avoid disrupting the class.
- Notify the teacher in advance if unable to attend a session.
- Hygiene
- Maintain personal hygiene and ensure yoga mats and equipment are clean.
- Consent
- Communicate clearly with the teacher about personal boundaries, particularly regarding hands-on adjustments.
4. General Guidelines
- Inclusivity
- All participants, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, ability, or background, are welcome.
- Discrimination, harassment, or exclusion will not be tolerated.
- Confidentiality
- Discussions and information shared within the class are to be kept confidential unless explicitly agreed otherwise.
- Safe Space
- Respectful dialogue and feedback are encouraged, but personal criticism or judgment is not.
- Compliance with Laws
- All activities will comply with local, state, and federal laws, including health and safety regulations.
5. Violations
- Reporting
- Any violations of this Code of Conduct should be reported to the teacher or studio management immediately.
- Resolution
- Reports of violations will be addressed promptly and fairly, with appropriate actions taken based on the nature of the issue.
- Consequences
- Consequences for violations may include verbal warnings, suspension, or removal from classes, depending on the severity of the misconduct.
6. Acknowledgment
By participating in yoga classes, teachers and students agree to adhere to this Code of Conduct. Failure to comply may result in appropriate actions being taken to ensure the safety and integrity of the yoga community.