Ethics for Yoga Teachers

Friends of Yoga (FRYOG) Teachers are expected to maintain the integrity of Yoga as taught by Patanjali in the 8 Limbs of Yoga namely:

  • Yamas – non-harming, truthfulness, non-stealing, conservation of energy, non-greed
  • Niyamas – purity, contentment, self-discipline, self-study, connection to your higher source
  • Asana – physical practice
  • Pranayama – control of breath & prana
  • Pratyahara – withdrawal of senses
  • Dharana – concentration
  • Dhyama – meditation
  • Samadhi – enlightened bliss

Friends of Yoga (FRYOG) have developed the following guidelines for teachers to improve the quality of teaching and practice in the modern world:

  1. Our teachers understand that teaching Yoga is a privilege and that they are part of a tradition whose lineage can be traced back.
  2. Our teachers are committed to promoting the physical, mental and spiritual well-being of their students.
  3. Our teachers will treat their students with respect.
  4. Our teachers will avoid any form of harassment of their students (including sexual harassment)
  5. Our teachers will never give medical advice or advice that could be interpreted as such unless they have a suitable qualification.
  6. Our teachers are willing to accept students with physical limitation providing the teacher has the necessary skills to teach such a student properly.
  7. Our teachers welcome all students regardless of race, nationality, religion, gender, sexual orientation and social or financial status.
  8. Our teachers strive to practice tolerance towards other Yoga teachings and traditions.
  9. Our teachers should conduct themselves in a professional manner both inside and outside the classroom.
  10. Our teachers continue their studies of the theoretical and practical aspects of yoga by attending one CPD (Continued Professional Development Day) each year organised or approved by Friends of Yoga.