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.

Stress Free Body Code of Conduct

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

Our SFB code of Conduct:

Framework: Tibetan Principles, The Four Agreements, Mindfulness and AYC Standards

At our school, we commit to a "Wise Relationship" with ourselves and our community. This Code of Conduct ensures our space remains a sanctuary for transformation, balance and harmony.

1: Our foundation is based on Four Pillars of Integrity (The Four Agreements by Miguel Ruiz)

-Impeccability of Speech: We practice Sila (ethical conduct), speaking with truth and compassion. We avoid gossip and use our words to build, not destroy.

-Don’t Take Anything Personally: We recognize that others’ actions are a projection of their own reality. We maintain equanimity (Upekkha) in the face of conflict.

-Don’t Make Assumptions: We practice Prajna (wisdom) by seeking clarity and communicating courageously to avoid misunderstanding.

-Always Do Your Best: We acknowledge Anitya (change); our "best" varies daily. We commit to the effort of the present moment without attachment to perfection.

2. Somatic Safety & Consent

Ahimsa (Non-harming): As an NY/NJ Licensed MT-led school, we prioritize physical safety. Consent for physical adjustments is mandatory and revocable at any time.

Professional Boundaries: We maintain clear teacher-student boundaries. We do not exploit the power dynamic for personal or sexual gain. We teach only within our scope of practice.

3. Mindfulness & Presence (Sati)

Awareness: Teachers and students commit to being present. We arrive on time and prepared, honoring the interconnectedness of the group’s energy.

Confidentiality: What is shared in the spirit of "internal dialogue" stays within the sacred circle of our space.

4. Ethical Livelihood & Transparency

We represent our credentials (MBSR, LMT, YWTT) honestly.

Financial dealings are conducted with generosity and fairness, ensuring that our business practices reflect our spiritual values.

5. Legal Compliance

We adhere to all NY/NJ jurisdictional laws regarding massage therapy and yoga instruction, maintaining the highest professional standards.