At Sol Yoga Collective in Rapid City, we believe yoga is as much about community as it is about personal practice. Each time we step onto our mats, we step into a shared space of breath, movement, and respect. As we move toward warmer summer days and hotter classes, it’s a great time for a light-hearted but important reminder about yoga etiquette — little habits that help keep our space welcoming and comfortable for everyone.
One thing that often goes unnoticed (until it doesn’t) is scent. We kindly ask that you avoid wearing strong perfumes/colognes to class. While you might love your favorite perfume or spicy cologne, strong scents can be overwhelming in a heated room and even cause headaches or allergies for some students. Keeping it fresh and scent-neutral allows everyone to breathe a little easier — literally!
Speaking of fresh, personal hygiene is part of mindful yoga practice, too. We get it — life is busy and sometimes you’re racing from one thing to the next. Still, a quick rinse before class, especially during the hotter months, can make a big difference for you and your neighbors. Yoga involves close proximity and shared air, and a little pre-class shower can help everyone feel more comfortable. Trust us: no one has ever regretted showing up feeling clean and refreshed.
If you're attending a Hot Yoga or Warm Yoga class, please bring a towel — and don’t be shy about using it. Sweating is natural (and healthy!), but managing your own sweat shows care for yourself, your mat, and those practicing nearby. A towel under your hands, feet, or body can help you stay stable and keep the studio floor safe and dry for everyone.
Beyond scent and sweat, there are a few other small but meaningful etiquette practices to consider. Arriving on time helps preserve the peaceful flow of class and shows respect for both your instructor and fellow students. That said - even if you are running a little late, we want you in class! Please enter the room quietly, but get yourself to your mat. We know that life happens and we want you in the practice room, even if you’re a little tardy. (if it becomes a habit or pattern for you, we’ll notice and address it. With love, of course.)
Most importantly, honor your own practice while respecting the space of others. Keep personal items like phones and large bags outside of the studio space and be mindful of where you place your mat so everyone has enough room to move freely.
At Sol Yoga Collective, our community thrives because of the kindness, awareness, and presence each student brings. Thank you for helping us keep our space supportive, welcoming, and full of good energy — especially as the temperatures rise this summer!