Stephie’s Yoga Code of Ethics is rooted in the Yamas and Niyamas of the 8-Limbed Path of Yoga. The Yamas represent moral restraints, which apply specifically to how you behave outwardly toward other beings. The Niyamas are observances, which apply specifically to how you conduct yourself on a more personal level.

Ahimsa – I vow to keep my students safe physically. I will not offer more than what my student(s) is comfortable with, nor what I feel goes beyond what I can teach safely. I will demonstrate a clear understanding of the poses and structure that I teach. I’ll strive to create a safe space that’s inclusive, compassionate, open, safe, and kind. I will always remember that when I take the seat of a teacher, it is a sacred moment. I will be mindful of my language and welcoming of all students.

Satya – I vow to lead with truthfulness and authenticity. I’ll teach from my own practice and life in an effort to connect more closely with my students. I will grow from the mistakes I make and acknowledge I am not perfect. I will share with my students how I am working on the teachings of yoga in my own life.

I will not not diagnose my students, and be careful to refer them to doctors, specialists, or other professionals who might have the relevant expertise. I’ll respect financial arrangements made with students and studios and agree to guidelines of wherever I am teaching. I understand that honesty and safety are more important than anything else.

Asteya – I vow to not steal from anyone I come into contact with. I will balance give and take.

Brahmacharya – I vow to act in moderation. I will strike a balance of power between my students and my position as their teacher. I will ask and receive clear permission from students before giving hands on assists. I will have boundaries between myself and my private clients. I will push myself and my students to grow, while also remaining aware of the present moment and meet it with awareness and acceptance.

Aparigraha – I vow to empower my students to navigate their own path, both on the mat and off, and instill in them that their practice is not dependent on me. As their teacher, I will assist in their development and support their learning, yet I will not hold onto the outcome; as it’s what’s in the journey that holds magic.

Sauca – I vow to step into each teaching moment with a pure heart and mind. I will do my best to place aside anything else that’s going on outside the practice. I will frame my thinking and being in the present moment.

Santosha – I vow to be mindful of my contentment with where I am at in my own practice and teaching skills. I will be welcoming to all the stuff that comes in when I’m about to start class – the jitters, distractions, emotions, injuries, special requests – and hold space for everyone regardless of where they’re at.

Tapas – I vow to be disciplined, and wholeheartedly passionate. My practice and teaching is a process; I will work each day to move towards my goals, and I will inspire the same among my students. I will tune into the moment and recognize when to push my students in a gracious way, creating heat in classes and an experience that’s challenging for all levels.

Svadhyaya – I vow to never stop learning and bring the richness of my own studies to class.

Isvara Pranidhana – I vow to have devotion, faith, awe, and respect for the practice of yoga and for each and everyone of my students. I will serve souls that are going to go out and have a ripple effect in their lives beyond yoga. I will have a resounding effect on my students, and for this will always be grateful.

I promise to respect the lineage of the practice and where it comes from; and always remember that everything I teach comes from something I learned from someone else. I will breathe a sense of gratitude into every word and movement shared.