American Yoga Council Code of Conduct

v1.0, last updated 18 September 2025

Preamble

A Code of Conduct is a difficult document to write. In theory, it sets out your responsibilities as members in good standing, and what we, as a community, expect of each other.

In practice, it’s easy for a Code of Conduct to be so generic it is of little use, and for there to be next-to-no consequences for violating it. So we’re taking a different approach, with a few specific aims in mind:

  • We want the Code of Conduct to be more adaptable to your own ethics as a teacher or school in good standing.
  • We want the public to easily be able to see a School's code in order to hold them accountable to it.
  • We want our Code of Conduct to reflect our values as an organization.
  • And we want this Code of Conduct to be a key tool in holding ourselves to account as a community.

We expect this document to evolve, with your help, and we’re excited to figure out together what real accountability might look like in yoga teaching.

The American Yoga Council Code of Conduct

1. Follow the Law

This sounds obvious, but it's also the most enforceable clause to have in a Code of Conduct. We expect AYC members to teach in accordance with all appropriate legislation in your jurisdiction when teaching yoga. We’re not going to police your practice, but if your behaviour towards your students and colleagues violates civil or criminal law, we will recommend and support legal action. Unethical behaviour of a legal nature could result in expulsion from AYC.

  • I will teach in accordance with all appropriate legislation in my jurisdiction.

2. Uphold AYC Core Values

Secondly, to be a member in good standing, we expect you to teach in accordance with the following values, which reflect the core values of AYC as an organization.

  • Following the core value of Generosity, I will share my teachings in the spirit of collaboration rather than competition, and conduct my financial dealings fairly with others.
  • Following the core value of Transparency, I will represent my yoga education, background, and the content of my teaching honestly and accurately.
  • Following the core value of Right Livelihood, I will teach to the scope of practice of my training and experience.
  • Following the core value of Embodied Relationships, I will teach with respect for the value of ethical human to human connections.

3. Creating a Personal Code

Lastly, to be an effective and ethical yoga teacher, we believe it is vital to have considered your own personal code of conduct. You might reflect on Patanjali’s yamas and niyamas, on the five Buddhist Precepts for right living, on the lay Jain code, or on any other philosophical sources. We would like you to describe that code of conduct in your own words.

  • In accordance with my own practice and understanding of yogic philosophy, I commit to teach and live by the personal code of conduct written below.

Do Yoga Code of Conduct

Additionally, this school has established a specific code of conduct that must be upheld:

At Do Yoga, we are committed to creating a space rooted in respect, integrity, and genuine connection. Yoga is not just a physical practice. It is a way of relating to ourselves, to others, and to the world around us. This code of conduct reflects the standards we uphold within our studio and the responsibility we carry as both teachers and students.

Commitment to Ethical Practice
All teaching and operations at Do Yoga are conducted in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. Integrity is the foundation of this space, and any behavior that violates legal or ethical standards will not be tolerated.

Integrity and Transparency
We value honesty in all aspects of teaching and communication. Teachers represent their training, experience, and offerings truthfully, and students can trust that what is shared is done with clarity and intention. Financial and professional interactions are handled fairly and respectfully.

Teaching with Responsibility
Teachers lead from their level of training and lived experience. We do not position ourselves as medical or mental health professionals unless properly licensed to do so. Physical adjustments are offered with consent, and students are always encouraged to make choices that feel right for their bodies.

Respect for Self and Others
Each person enters the space with a unique background, body, and experience. We ask all members of the community to move with awareness, honor personal boundaries, and treat one another with kindness and respect. Judgment, comparison, and harmful language have no place here.

Inclusive and Welcoming Space
Do Yoga is a space for everybody with any body. We are committed to fostering an environment that is inclusive, supportive, and free from discrimination or harassment of any kind.

Student Autonomy
Students are encouraged to listen deeply to their bodies and trust their internal guidance. Rest is welcome. Modifications are encouraged. There is no expectation to push, perform, or keep up with anyone else.

Community and Shared Space
We share responsibility for the energy of the space. This includes arriving on time, minimizing disruptions, and contributing to an environment that feels grounded, present, and respectful for all.

Confidentiality and Trust
We recognize that this practice can bring up personal and vulnerable experiences. What is shared within the space is held with care and respect.

Personal Practice and Values
At Do Yoga, we honor the deeper teachings of yoga. This includes living in alignment with principles such as truthfulness, non harm, self awareness, and intentional action. Each teacher is encouraged to reflect on their own personal code of conduct and embody these values both within and beyond the studio.

Accountability
Maintaining this space requires collective care. Behavior that does not align with this code may result in removal from class or the studio. We are committed to upholding a space that feels safe, supportive, and aligned for everyone.