DO not arrive late or leave early; it's disruptive to others. The doors to the studio will be closed promptly at the beginning of each class.

DO read class descriptions carefully. If you are a beginner, respect others by taking a class that is suitable for your level. Beginners in an advanced class disrupt the flow and energy of a class. If you are unsure of your level, take a beginner class and ask a Yoga Shala instructor for a recommendation.

DO turn off pagers or cell phones. Leave socializing and business outside the studio, so the peace of the practice is not disturbed.

DO speak quietly. It's great to share a class with people you know, but it can be distracting to yourself and others to have an extended or loud conversation.

The Mysore Palace in Mysore, India

DO NOT eat for two or three hours before class. If you practice yoga on a full stomach, you might experience cramps or nausea, especially in twists, deep forward bends, and inversions. Digesting food also takes energy that can make you lethargic.

DO let your teacher know about injuries or conditions that might affect your practice. If you are injured or tired, skip poses you can't or shouldn't do, or try a modified version.

DO create an intention. To help you focus, you might find it helpful to dedicate your practice to a certain intention. This might be to become more aware and understanding, more loving and compassionate, or healthier, stronger, and more skilful. Or it might be for the benefit of a friend, a cause—or even yourself.

DO bring your own mat and a towel if you sweat a lot, and arrive clean and free of scents that might distract or offend others.

DO NOT push your practice. Instead of trying to go as deeply or completely into a pose as others might be able to do, do what you can without straining or injuring yourself. You'll go farther faster if you take a loving attitude toward yourself and work from where you are, not from where you think you should be.