Shala Etiquette and Guidelines

Practice Guidelines: 

• The Shala Savannah Ashtanga Mysore program is built upon a strong foundation of trust between  the teachers and students. Please communicate any current injuries or conditions that might  effect your yoga practice. 

• Please register before each class. This allows us to focus our time and energy on you and your  practice rather than devoting excessive time to administrative tasks. 

• Please maintain personal cleanliness and bring your own yoga mat and two towels to practice  daily. A hot shower before practice helps to increase flexibility and mental focus. Refrain from  wearing any fragrances when coming to the Shala, as strong smells can make practice and  breathing difficult for others.  

• Please do not eat before practice. Ideally your digestive system should be as empty as possible. Refrain from eating any food at least 2-4 hours prior. 

• Please keep water bottles or other personal accessories aside with your personal belongings. Please keep the floors clear of anything but your mat and towel. Cell phones that are brought into  the Shala must remain silent. 

• Do not ask for postures. Postures are given as/when deemed appropriate by the teacher and  mutually agreed between teacher and student. Maintain the traditional sequence and vinyasa. Do  not skip postures without reason. 

• If you need assistance, please make eye contact with the teacher and wait patiently. 

• Our goal is to create a safe and sacred space for practice — one that cultivates relationships of  trust and respect, and allows for honest, open communication between teachers and students.  While hands-on adjustments are common in our teaching practice, if anyone feels uncomfortable  with or wishes not to receive such adjustments, please communicate this with the teachers. We  respect each student’s agency over their own body and honor each student’s wishes. 

• New students and out-of-town practitioners who practice beyond Primary Series: Before you begin your practice, introduce yourself to the teacher and communicate which series you will be practicing— if not primary series. 

• Please maintain silence during and after practice, being mindful of others who are practicing around you. Social conversation is not to be had during practice hours at the Shala. Our vision is  to build a sacred space for practice and community. 

• Always ask questions if you forget the sequence or unsure about something. Don’t hesitate if clarification is needed.  

• Most importantly, enjoy your practice. Don’t get stuck on your highs, and don’t get stuck on your lows. Practice non-attachment.