1. Mindful Silence Stickers

Some students want to move and breathe without conversation.
At reception, students can choose an optional sticker that says “Practising Mindful Silence.”

Teachers respect this boundary and avoid initiating small talk. No questions asked, no pressure to explain.

2. Permission Cards (Always Used)

Every class uses permission cards, even when the teacher plans not to offer hands-on assists.

This ensures:

• Students know they will not be touched

• There is no confusion mid-class

• Autonomy is always prioritised
  

The absence of an assist is still a deliberate choice communicated clearly.

3. No Scents or Burning During Class

To protect students with asthma, migraines, sensory sensitivities, and trauma triggers:

• No incense

• No essential oil diffusers

• No sage / palo santo

• No fragranced sprays

• No scented candles
  

This keeps the space accessible and safe for everyone.

4. Inclusive Language

Teachers do their best to use non-gendered, inclusive language at all times.

This includes:

• Avoiding assumptions about gender

• Using neutral language where possible (“they/them”, “everyone,” “team,” “friends,” “yogis,” etc.)

• Defaulting to a student’s name if needed
  

Mindbody does not currently support a visible pronoun field for class lists. If this changes, we will update our systems accordingly.

5. Trauma-Aware Communication

Teachers:

• Offer choices rather than commands

• Avoid triggering phrasing like “push through pain”

• Normalise rest

• Avoid singling people out

• Avoid public praise that might feel exposing

• Keep demos inclusive for a wide range of bodies
  

6. Physical Adjustments: Clear & Consistent Boundaries

Across all classes:

• Consent is required every single time

• Global verbal consent does not replace permission cards

• Teachers observe cards before class begins

• Teachers only assist when they’re trained, confident, and the student clearly consents
  

If a student chooses “no,” it is respected immediately and without comment.

7. Space Accessibility

Where possible:

• Offer options for students who need the front/back/side of the room for comfort

• Leave clear walkways

• Provide blocks, bolsters, chairs, and variations for all levels

• Encourage students to take up space in the way they need—rest included
  

8. Inclusive Teaching Style

We teach in a way that supports neurodivergent, anxious, older, newer, pregnant, larger-bodied, disabled, and returning students by:

• Giving time markers (“2 more breaths here”)

• Offering layered instructions rather than rapid fire cues

• Giving visual demos whenever possible

• Normalising multiple variations as equally valid

• Avoiding body-shaming language (“burn fat,” “fix your tummy”)

• Celebrating effort, not aesthetics
  
  

9. Cultural Respect

Yoga is a South Asian tradition. Pilates is a modern system rooted in rehabilitation. We honour both by:

• Avoiding appropriation

• Teaching with accuracy

• Acknowledging lineage where relevant

• Using Sanskrit responsibly and respectfully
  

10. Privacy + Psychological Safety

Students’ stories, identities, and experiences stay private.

Teachers do not:

• Share student information with others

• Comment on someone’s body, weight, or appearance

• Give unsolicited medical or psychological advice
  

A student’s mat is their sanctuary.