Do be prepared, show up EARLY. The listed class time is when the teacher will begin. Allow yourself enough time to set up your mat and props as well as handle all of the technical needs if the class is online (log in, set up the lighting, adjust the camera and audio, etc).
Do introduce yourself to the teacher when attending a new class. Be prepared to answer a few questions about your yoga experience and any health issues or injuries you are working with.
Do take agency of your own body. It is YOUR body and YOUR practice. The teacher is there to offer guidance, suggestions, and cues to help you explore each shape. Feel free to hold poses for longer than the teacher has given time for, come out of a pose early, add things in, or take things out. Don’t do anything that doesn’t feel right. A child’s pose, or any comfortable resting posture, is ALWAYS an option at any time in the class.
Don’t be nervous if it’s your first class. I know, easier said than done. But really, everyone in the class was a first time student at one point too, and I promise you that the teacher is just excited and proud of you for showing up. You may feel like everyone is watching you fumble around for the first few classes, but every other student is focused on their own practice and their own mat.
Do be respectful of others by arriving on time, turning off / silencing your phone, refraining from talking during class (unless asking the teacher a question), and if possible do not leave the class early. If you must arrive late or leave early, let the teacher know ahead of time if you can. With an in person class, try to leave before the final resting posture (savasana) so that you are not disturbing other students’ rest.
