Yoga class etiquette: how to be a good student in Bali

Studios in Bali range from big open-air shalas to small air-conditioned rooms, and classes mix first-timers with people who practise every day. The basics below work everywhere.

Before class

• Arrive early. Aim for 10 to 15 minutes before the start, especially for your first visit, when you may need to sign in or pay. Walking in after the opening breathing or meditation disturbs everyone.
• Book if the studio asks you to. Popular classes fill up. If you booked and can't come, cancel so someone on the waitlist gets your spot.
• Eat light. Most people practise best with nothing heavy in the two to three hours before class.
• Tell the teacher about injuries or pregnancy before class starts, not halfway through.

Shoes, mats and props

• Shoes off before you step into the shala. Look for the shoe rack or the spot where everyone else leaves theirs.
• Bring your own mat if you can. Most studios have mats to borrow or rent. If you use one, wipe it down afterwards.
• Place your mat in line with others and leave room for people arriving after you. Don't save spots with towels.
• Take the props the teacher asks for (blocks, strap, bolster) before class and put them back neatly after.

Phones, noise and scent

• Put your phone on silent and leave it with your bag, not next to your mat.
• Keep chat for before or after class. Once people settle on their mats, the room is quiet.
• Go easy on strong perfume, essential oils and bug spray in shared rooms. In an open-air shala, apply insect repellent before you arrive.

Heat and sweat

• Bali is hot and humid, and some studios run heated classes on purpose. Bring water and a small towel, and a large mat towel for hot classes.
• Wipe your sweat off shared props and the floor around your mat.
• Rest whenever you need to. Child's pose is always allowed and no good teacher will mind.

During class

• Follow the teacher's sequence. Doing your own practice in a led class distracts others. If a pose doesn't suit you, ask for or take the variation.
• Hands-on adjustments are optional. Many studios use consent cards or simply ask. If you'd rather not be touched, say so or flip the card. You can change your mind at any time.
• Practise at your own level. Comparing yourself to the person next to you is the fastest way to get hurt.

Savasana and leaving

• Stay for the final relaxation (savasana). It's part of the class, not optional extra time.
• If you really have to leave early, tell the teacher beforehand, set up near the door and go quietly before savasana starts.
• Roll up your mat, return props and say thank you on the way out.

Bali-specific courtesy

• Many shalas have small daily offerings (canang sari) at the entrance or the altar. Walk around them and don't move them.
• Some studios close or change schedules on Balinese holy days and during Nyepi, the Day of Silence. Check before you go. Read more about Nyepi and Purnama and Tilem.
• If a class includes a blessing, chanting or a short ceremony, join in or sit quietly. Both are fine.

Not sure which class to start with? Read our guide to yoga styles, then find today's classes on Bali Classes.