Code of Conduct – Federal Yoga Alliance
Introduction
The Code of Conduct of the Federal Yoga Alliance establishes the ethical and professional standards that every certified member must uphold. Rooted in the fundamental values of yoga, this code serves as a guideline for the conduct of teachers and certified schools, ensuring integrity, quality, and accountability in the yoga community.
This code is an integral part of the ethical commitment required of all Federal Yoga Alliance members, along with adherence to the Scope of Practice and all other governing policies.
Purpose
The Federal Yoga Alliance is committed to maintaining high standards in yoga education and certification. At a time when yoga is growing globally, it is crucial to preserve authenticity and ethical responsibility. This Code of Conduct ensures a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for both teachers and students, while promoting confidence and credibility within the yoga profession.
By defining and enforcing high ethical and professional standards, the Federal Yoga Alliance aims to:
Promote trust and respect for certified yoga teachers and schools.
Maintain professional behavior and accountability within the yoga community.
Ensure ethical integrity in the teaching and certification of yoga.
Uphold the highest standards of yoga education worldwide.
Guiding Principles
1. Compliance with Applicable Laws
All members must comply with the local, state, national, and international laws governing their practice, ensuring legal and ethical responsibility in their professional conduct.
2. Adherence to the Scope of Practice
Members must follow the Federal Yoga Alliance Scope of Practice, which outlines accepted and prohibited practices in yoga teaching and certification.
3.Harassment in any form—verbal, physical, digital, or otherwise—is strictly prohibited. Members must foster a professional, safe, and respectful space for students, trainees, employees, and peers.
4. Zero Tolerance for Sexual Misconduct
Our community stands as a sanctuary for growth, healing, and empowerment — and that requires an unwavering commitment to safety, trust, and respect. We hold a strict zero-tolerance policy for any form of sexual harassment or misconduct. This includes, but is not limited to:
Unwelcome physical contact — Any touch, adjustment, or physical assistance must be communicated clearly and consented to beforehand. Students and teachers alike have the right to refuse touch at any time without explanation.
Inappropriate comments or verbal advances — Sexual jokes, suggestive remarks, or any language that undermines the dignity of another person is strictly forbidden. Words hold power; let’s use them to uplift, not harm.
Abuse of authority — Teachers, mentors, or senior members must never exploit their position for personal or sexual gain. The student-teacher relationship is built on trust, and crossing this line damages not only individuals but the entire community.
Non-consensual behavior — Consent is ongoing, active, and freely given — never assumed.
We are not just a yoga community; we are guardians of each other’s safety, advocates for personal sovereignty, and defenders of those who may feel powerless to speak up.
If any member experiences or witnesses misconduct, they are encouraged to report it immediately without fear of retaliation. The leadership team will investigate with integrity and discretion, ensuring accountability and protection for those affected.
In this space, everyone has the right to feel safe, respected, and valued — from the newest student to the most seasoned teacher. Together, we uphold this standard as a reflection of the deeper principles of yoga: compassion (Ahimsa), truth (Satya), and non-possessiveness (Asteya) — ensuring no one’s body, energy, or dignity is ever taken without permission.
We are more than individuals on a mat. We are a united force that stands against harm, embodying the courage to protect, the strength to uphold our values, and the heart to foster healing.
5. Do No Harm
Members must act responsibly to ensure the well-being of their students, trainees, and colleagues. Teaching under the influence of alcohol or drugs (except prescribed medication) is strictly prohibited.
6 Inclusion and Non-Discrimination
Our yoga community thrives on the understanding that yoga is for everyone — no exceptions. Each person who steps onto the mat brings with them a unique story, shaped by their culture, body, beliefs, and life experiences. It’s our duty, as practitioners and teachers, to create a space where all feel seen, valued, and welcomed — not despite their differences, but because of them.
We commit to fostering an environment that is actively inclusive and free from discrimination, embracing diversity in all its forms:
Age — Yoga has no age limit. From the youngest seekers to the most seasoned souls, everyone deserves to explore their practice at their own pace and with modifications suited to their body’s journey.
Gender and Sexual Identity — Whether cisgender, transgender, non-binary, or exploring their identity, all members should feel safe and honored in their authentic expression. Pronouns and identities must be respected — no assumptions, no exceptions.
Race, Ethnicity, and Culture — Yoga transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. We honor the roots of this ancient practice while welcoming all who come from different backgrounds, ensuring no one feels "othered" or excluded.
Religion and Spiritual Beliefs — Yoga itself is a spiritual path, but it’s one that can complement, not compete with, personal faiths or belief systems. We hold space for everyone’s unique relationship with spirituality, without judgment or imposition.
Body Type and Physical Ability — Yoga is not about looking a certain way; it’s about feeling and connecting. All bodies are yoga bodies. Modifications, props, and compassionate guidance are not optional extras — they’re essential tools to ensure accessibility for every person, whether they’re dealing with injuries, disabilities, or just navigating their unique structure.
Socioeconomic Status — Financial barriers should never prevent someone from accessing the benefits of yoga. We encourage fair pricing models, scholarship opportunities, and community-based practices where possible, to make yoga more available to those who might otherwise feel excluded.
Inclusion is not passive — it’s a conscious action. It’s in the way we teach, the words we choose, the energy we hold in the room, and the way we challenge our own biases.
If a space isn’t safe and welcoming for all, it’s not a true yoga space.
Our community stands firm: discrimination, microaggressions, or exclusion — whether overt or subtle — will not be tolerated. Every member is empowered to call out behavior that contradicts these values, knowing they have the full support of the leadership team.
7. Respect for Student-Teacher Relationships
Teachers must uphold ethical student-teacher relationships by:
Seeking explicit and informed consent before physical adjustments.
Avoiding romantic or sexual relationships with students during active training periods.
Respecting professional work agreements and ensuring transparency in all engagements.
8. Honesty and Transparency
Members must maintain integrity in communication, including:
Accurately representing their credentials and experience.
Avoiding plagiarism and giving proper credit to sources.
Making ethical and fact-based claims about yoga’s effects.
Respecting the cultural roots of yoga and avoiding its misrepresentation.
Commitment to Excellence
By adhering to this Code of Conduct, members of the Federal Yoga Alliance contribute to the elevation of yoga standards worldwide, ensuring that the practice remains authentic, ethical, and transformative for all.