1. Respect the culture that welcomes you

Yoga was born in India. Practicing it here means honoring the place and people behind the tradition.

Dress appropriately for temples, ashrams, and classes (modest, non-revealing clothing)
Take off shoes before entering yoga spaces, homes, or sacred areas
Don’t photograph people or rituals without permission
Be mindful of gestures, expressions, and body language; what’s playful back home may feel inappropriate here
Learn basic greetings like “Namaste” and use them with intention

2. Respect your teachers and fellow students

Show up on time for classes, discussions, and group sessions

Keep phones on silent or out of sight unless told otherwise

Avoid dominating discussions or correcting others: this is a space for shared growth

Be open to feedback, and communicate clearly if something feels uncomfortable

Recognize that everyone is at a different point in their journey; comparison has no place here

3. What we don’t tolerate

We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for the following:

Discrimination, racism, casteism, or cultural appropriation

Mocking or dismissing spiritual practices or cultural traditions

Substance use in spaces that explicitly prohibit it

Disrespect toward local staff, workers, or community members

Harassment, including unwanted attention, sexual comments, or touching

Sharing misinformation about a school or fellow student, online or offline

Violation of any of the above may result in removal from the course (at the school’s discretion) and a permanent ban from VIDYA.

4. Practice with presence

You’re not here to impress; you’re here to transform.

Prioritize being present over being perfect

Respect rest time, silence periods, or designated tech-free zones

Practice hygiene and shared space etiquette (clean up after yourself, be mindful in dorms or shared bathrooms)

If you're not feeling well, inform your teacher and take care of yourself and others

5. You’re a guest, be a good one

India is generous with its hospitality. Please be generous with your awareness.

Be kind to locals, shopkeepers, drivers, and support staff
Tip fairly, smile often, and ask questions with humility
If you’re unsure about something, ask, don’t assume

If something feels wrong

If you witness or experience something that crosses a line, whether with another student, a teacher, or a local, don’t stay silent.
Contact your course facilitator and reach out to us At
namaste@vidyayoga.co.

We take all reports seriously and confidentially.

In closing
This journey is yours, but it doesn’t happen in isolation. Thank you for walking it with respect, awareness, and heart.