In today’s yoga landscape, creating a space that feels welcoming, inclusive and safe is no longer optional — it’s essential. As a teacher, I’ve learned that small shifts in language, tone and approach can make a big impact on how students feel in their bodies and in the room. Here are some of the key do’s and don’ts I keep in mind to help cultivate that kind of supportive environment. 

1. Use Consent Cards

Consent is a must when creating inclusivity in a yoga class. Giving people the opportunity to determine their boundaries in regard to touch is a habit every teacher should adopt. Nothing says ‘I’m listening’ like asking a question first.

2. Use Possessive Language

I know this one is debatable, but hear me out. Ownership fosters agency. Reminding students of their body parts in motion helps build awareness and connection. Think about it: how special is it to be asked to pick up your right foot and realize you picked it up two inches higher this time?

3. Don’t Gender

Identity is fluid and one of my favorite places to explore it is on my mat. You are teaching humans; anything extra is information that honestly is not that important. As our society expands its understanding of gender, sex, sexuality and gender roles, it’s important to not make assumptions about how students identify. Our students are fluid, complex creatures and it’s safe to bow to the unknown.

4. Teach to Sensation

How it feels is more important than how it looks. Enough said. A safe class where your students feel clear and held is more important than perceived achievements. A lifetime of practice is a better measurement of instruction than sirsasana (headstand).

5. Keep Demoing to a Minimum

When demoing, ask yourself: is this necessary? If yes, why? While demos can clarify complex transitions, rely on them mindfully — they should support, not replace, connection. Your presence is your gift. The more eyes you connect with and the more laughter you share, the stronger the mind-body connections — and those are the true measures of successful instruction. The best lessons are learned on the practitioner’s mat.

6. Suggest — Don’t Demand

Your students’ accomplishments are not your accomplishments, and their practice is not your practice. Suggestive language such as “if it feels good” and “try” reminds practitioners they are the ultimate authority in their practice. Suggestive language is a gentle shift in power dynamics and a humbler of context.

7. Invite Exploration and Curiosity

Nothing rings more of liberation than exploration and curiosity. And yes, the yoga mat is no different. The more invitations to explore space and opportunity in the body, the more curious about the body’s boundaries one might become. I have found they are in relation.

8. Don’t Assume

You don’t know what you don’t know. So, why guess? If you are curious, ask! This is an essential guideline to follow in context to safety, comfort, affect and ability. Lean into the teaching. Questions such as “how does this feel?” or “understand?” are soft reminders that yoga classes are a tool for learning.

9. Teach to Inquiry NOT Ability

Everyone’s reason is different; so, again, do not guess. Speak to the tenets and the asana and let the rest land as it may. Health and wellness at their core are tools for empowerment. The more a student feels they can do, the safer they feel to try. Little is achieved in one class. Making retention your intention is a gamechanger. Yoga every day is best achieved when practitioners feel there is room to grow.

10. Be a Conduit

Believe it or not, YOU matter. Your energy, your presence and your effect matter. No, being a yoga teacher does not mean every day is roses and sunshine or your mood is always glowing, but naivety is not your friend. You are the centering presence in the room. While there is no need to sell yourself, your presence and awareness is on display. Verbal adjustments, clear and concise language and eye contact are all ways to effectively convey your presence. One last thing: never forget your tone. Ums, silence and fillers you can do without. Strong and intentional language with a confident tone are all tools to shine, transcending from instructor to educator.

11. Teach to Every Body

Last but not least, teach to every body. Yes, everyone can do yoga and just about everyBODY does. Free yourself and your students of preconceived notions about what’s possible for the body. Try to speak to the universals or the anatomy of the pose. For instance, when teaching adho ukha vrksasana (handstand), think core engagement, wrist health, load bearing and alignment. Speak to the general instruction, which articulates health and well-being for all practitioners.

When we lead with curiosity, humility and clarity, we help our students feel seen, respected and safe. A truly inclusive class isn’t about getting it perfect — it’s about making space for everyone to belong.