The Yamas & Niyamas Exploring Yoga’s Ethical Practice

Yoga is an ancient practice from India that goes beyond the physical postures. It is a holistic approach to life by encouraging good behaviour, self awareness and mindfulness. Whether you are a practitioner or a teacher, understanding the ethics and code of conduct in yoga teacher training will make your journey deeper and more meaningful.

What Are Ethics in Yoga?

Ethics in yoga are moral guidelines that promote harmony, respect for others and self discipline. These principles will create a safe, inclusive and respectful space for personal and collective growth.

Yoga ethics applies not only to how we treat others but also to how we treat ourselves. Ethical practice in yoga prevents exploitation, promotes respect and accountability.

The Yamas & Niyamas Exploring Yoga’s Ethical Practice

Yamas and Niyamas are the foundation of classical yoga that guide how we live our lives. They are the first two limbs of the Eight Limbs or eight fold path of Yoga as described in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. These principles help us grow as individuals and create good relationships with the world around us. They encourage us to adopt the yogic thought and live with kindness, honesty and self discipline, on and off the mat.

Yamas (How We Treat Others)

Yamas are guidelines, with practical examples for how we behave towards others and the world. They help us live with respect, care and balance.

1. Ahimsa (Non-violence):

Be kind and don’t cause harm to others through your words, actions or thoughts. This means speak gently, act with compassion and think positively.

2. Satya (Truthfulness):

Be honest in what you say and do, but also be kind. Honesty doesn’t mean being harsh — it means you choose attitude of being truthful in a way that respects others.

3. Asteya (Non-stealing):

Don’t take what doesn’t belong to you. This includes not taking someone’s time, credit or resources. Instead, appreciate what you have and respect others’ efforts.

4. Brahmacharya (Moderation):

Live in balance by controlling your desires and not overindulge. This will help you save your energy for what truly matters, like personal growth and happiness.

5. Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness):

Don’t hold on to material things or unhealthy attachments. Learn to be content with what you have and let go of the need to always have more.

Niyamas (How We Treat Ourselves)

Niyamas are about self care, self discipline and spiritual growth. They help us build a better relationship with ourselves, the yoga way.

1. Shaucha (Cleanliness):

Keep your body, mind and surroundings clean. A clean space and a calm mind makes it easier to focus and be peaceful.

2. Santosha (Contentment):

Be grateful for what you have and accept your life as it is. Instead of wishing for more, focus on finding joy in the present moment.

3. Tapas (Discipline):

Stay committed to your goals even when things get tough. Whether it’s your yoga practice or daily life, dedication will help you grow and succeed.

4. Swadhyaya (Self-study):

Take time to reflect on yourself and learn from spiritual teachings. This will help you understand your thoughts and actions better and grow as a person.

5. Ishvarapranidhana (Surrender):

Trust the flow of life and have faith in a higher purpose. Let go of the need to control everything and find peace in letting things unfold naturally.

Yamas and Niyamas serve as a spiritual guide and help us live with honesty, gratitude and self discipline, every day.

Why Yoga Ethics

Yoga ethics builds trust and respect in yoga communities, classrooms and studios. Here are some reasons why yoga ethics are important:

1. Safe and Welcoming Spaces:

Ethics makes yoga classes open to everyone, regardless of background, age or experience. A welcoming space allows students to feel at ease and focus on their growth without fear of being judged. Feeling safe helps students build confidence and enjoy their practice.

2. Building Trust:

When teachers respect students’ boundaries, share honest information and are clear about their qualifications, students feel more comfortable. This trust creates a stronger connection between teacher and student, making the class more meaningful and supportive.

3. Protecting Students:

Clear guidelines of conduct prevents unwanted physical adjustments or misuse of power. Students, especially beginners or those recovering from emotional or physical challenges, benefit from classes where their safety and comfort is the priority.

4. Encouraging Self-awareness:

Yoga ethics makes students think about how their actions affect others. This practice helps build habits of kindness, patience and mindfulness in class and in daily life.

5. Keeping Yoga Authentic:

Following the ethical principles helps preserve yoga’s cultural heritage and spiritual purpose. Respecting its history and traditions makes the practice meaningful rather than just a trendy workout.

Yoga Alliance Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct

The Yoga Alliance is a global organization that sets standards for yoga teaching. Its Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct applies to all registered yoga teachers (RYTs) and schools (RYSs).

Code 1 — Adhere to Applicable Law

Yoga teachers must follow all local, national and international laws. This includes work, licensing and safety regulations, in all locations where they teach.

The Scope of Practice defines what is allowed and not allowed for yoga teachers. By agreeing to this, teachers commit to being professional and not to practice outside their scope, such as giving medical advice.

Code 3 — Follow the Yoga Alliance Anti-Harassment Policy

Harassment of any kind – in-person or online – is strictly prohibited. This includes trolling, threats, hate speech and other harmful behavior towards students, trainees, peers or the public, whether during teaching sessions, asana practice or group discussion. Teachers must promote respectful communication.

Code 4 — Follow the Yoga Alliance Sexual Misconduct Policy

Yoga teachers must never engage in any form of sexual misconduct, verbal or physical. Respecting boundaries creates a safe and supportive environment for all students.

Code 5 — Do No Harm

Teachers must take reasonable steps to not cause harm through their actions or negligence. This also means not teaching under the influence of alcohol or non-prescribed drugs to ensure student safety.

Code 6 — Actively Include All

Yoga classes should be inclusive, accommodating students regardless of age, gender, ability or background. Teachers must not discriminate and must make reasonable adjustments to support students with disabilities to ensure equal access to yoga.

Code 7 — Student-Teacher Relationships

Respecting professional boundaries is key. Teachers must get clear consent before physical adjustments and not have romantic relationships with students during courses or retreats. They must also respect privacy and not record students without permission.

Code 8 — Honesty in Communication

Teachers must be honest about their qualifications and experience and not make exaggerated claims about yoga’s benefits. They must give credit to their teachers, use proper citations for shared content and not plagiarise.

By following these codes of conduct yoga, teachers keep yoga real, build trust and create meaningful learning experiences that honour the values of respect, inclusivity and honesty.

How Siddhi Yoga adheres to the Code of Conduct and Yoga Ethics

At Siddhi Yoga, we are committed to upholding the highest ethical standards as outlined by Yoga Alliance. Here’s how we do it:

1. Inclusive Spaces: Siddhi Yoga ensures every student feels welcome, regardless of background, age or experience. Our teachers create an inclusive environment for all the free individuals.
2. Qualified Teachers: Our yoga teachers have authentic training and qualifications, and are transparent about their qualifications and experience.
3. Respectful Communication: Siddhi Yoga teachers communicate clearly and respectfully and listen to student feedback.
4. Cultural Respect: Siddhi Yoga respects the traditional roots of yoga and teaches students about its spiritual and cultural context.
5. Confidentiality and Safety: We respect student privacy and keep personal information or concerns shared in class confidential.

By living these values in our teaching, Siddhi Yoga follows the Yoga Alliance Code of Conduct and sets the example, so ethics is at the forefront of every class.

Code of Conduct for Yoga Teachers: Responsibilities and Expectations

Yoga teachers are in a position of power and must uphold the highest ethical standards. Here’s what is required:

1. Professionalism: Teach with respect and honesty.
2. Consent: Get permission before physical adjustments.
3. No Exploitation: Do not use the student-teacher relationship for personal or financial gain.
4. Continuous Learning: Stay up to date with knowledge and skills to teach at your best.
5. Provide Options: Offer variations for students with different needs to be inclusive.

Yoga Ethics Issues

Despite yoga’s good intentions, some ethical issues have arisen in modern yoga. Common issues are:

• Cultural Appropriation: Yoga teachers must respect the cultural roots of yoga and not misrepresent its practices.
• Boundary Violations: Unwanted physical adjustments or inappropriate comments can be uncomfortable.
• Transparency in Qualifications: Teachers must be honest about their training and qualifications.
• Commercialisation: Over commercialisation can dilute yoga’s spiritual essence.

Being aware of these issues allows us and our teachers to create a more respectful yoga community.

Ethical Yoga Space

To create a healthy and ethical yoga environment follow these:

1. Respect Differences: Welcome people from all backgrounds and abilities.
2. Safety: Use props, adjustments and clear instructions to ensure physical safety.
3. Feedback: Create space for students to share their experience and feedback.
4. Mindfulness: Encourage students to be aware of their physical, mental and emotional body during practice.
5. Be Kind: Treat every interaction with kindness.

Yoga Teacher Training and Code of Conduct

Yoga teacher training programs such as 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training, 300 Hr Yoga Teacher Training, 500 Hour Yoga Teacher Training include ethical behaviour in their curriculum. The Yoga Alliance Code of Conduct for Yoga Teacher Training is:

• Ethical Communication: Teach students to communicate respectfully.
• Student Safety: Teach the importance of physical and emotional boundaries.
• Accountability: Encourage teachers to take responsibility for their actions and mistakes.

Siddhi Yoga teacher training programs include these guidelines so future teachers can teach with integrity and kindness.

The Bottom Line

Ethics and code of conduct in yoga reminds us that yoga is not just a physical practice but also a practice of the heart and mind. Whether through the Yamas and Niyamas, the Yoga Alliance Code of Ethics or personal awareness, ethical yoga creates a safe and respectful space. By following these principles teachers and practitioners can keep the true essence of yoga and inspire change on and off the mat.

Siddhi Yoga practices what we preach, being inclusive, respectful and culturally aware in all our programs. Bring yoga’s ethics into your daily life and grow personally and collectively.