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.

Bhakti Yoga DC Code of Conduct

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

Bhakti Yoga DC is a heart-centered community dedicated to supporting the growth, practice, and teaching of yoga in a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment. All students, teachers, staff, and visitors are expected to uphold the following standards:

1. Respect for Materials & Intellectual Property

All written, digital, and recorded materials provided by Bhakti Yoga DC, including manuals, handouts, recordings, and online content, are the intellectual property of the school and its instructors.

Materials are for personal study and practice only and may not be copied, distributed, or shared without written permission.

2. Participation & Attendance

Students and participants are expected to attend classes, workshops, and programs on time and fully engage in the experience.

Respectful presence, active participation, and mindfulness toward oneself and others are essential.

Any missed sessions or hours should be made up in accordance with program policies when applicable.

3. Conduct & Community Respect

All members are expected to treat instructors, staff, and fellow students with respect, kindness, and consideration.

Disruptive, unsafe, or inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated. Bhakti Yoga DC reserves the right to dismiss any individual from classes or programs if behavior violates community standards.

Inclusivity, professionalism, and a spirit of support are central to maintaining a safe and nurturing environment.

4. Health & Safety

Participation in yoga classes, workshops, or programs involves physical activity and personal exploration, which carry inherent risks.

Individuals are responsible for listening to their own bodies, practicing safely, and seeking medical or professional guidance as needed.

Instructors are not providing therapy, counseling, or medical treatment, and students voluntarily assume all risks associated with participation.

5. Ethical Practice

Members are encouraged to honor the ethical principles of yoga, including integrity, honesty, and mindful communication.

Respect for personal boundaries, consent, and the privacy of others is mandatory.

Teachers are expected to uphold the standards of their certifications and maintain professional conduct in all teaching contexts.

6. Acknowledgment

By participating in Bhakti Yoga DC classes, programs, or events, you agree to abide by this Code of Conduct and understand that your engagement in the school’s community carries responsibilities for safety, respect, and integrity.