A Blog Post I Didn’t Want to Write

This isn’t the easiest blog post for me to write, however as a single person running a small yoga business, I’ve learned that part of protecting the integrity of what I do means setting (and maintaining) boundaries.

Lately, some of those boundaries have been stretched, and while I completely understand that life happens, I want to take a moment to explain why being on time, bringing your own equipment, and taking responsibility for your own bookings really matters: not just for me, but for you, for everyone in the room, and for the practice itself.

When you dedicate an hour (or two) each week or month to your yoga practice, you’re really giving that time to yourself. It’s your opportunity to breathe, reset, and reconnect and arriving on time is an act of respect for that intention.

Every one of my classes begins with grounding: a quiet, centering moment that helps us transition from the outside world into our practice. It’s not very grounding for anyone when someone rushes in late (including the person who is in a rush). I know sometimes things come up, however where possible, I encourage you to plan for those few extra minutes before class begins. It’s a small thing that makes a big difference to the energy and atmosphere we create together.

I also encourage everyone to bring their own equipment, not because I don’t want to provide it, but because it supports your personal connection to the practice. Having your own mat, blanket, or blocks means they’re familiar, clean, and cared for by you. It also opens the door to continuing your practice at home, rolling out your mat in your living room or garden and realising that yoga can be part of your everyday life. Owning your own equipment helps create a sense of belonging to your practice, something that’s truly yours.

Another important part of maintaining the smooth running of classes is taking responsibility for your own bookings. Please keep an eye on when your class packages are due and make sure you’re booked in for your sessions. I’ve designed my booking system to be as simple and flexible as possible so that I can spend my time where it really matters, creating meaningful lessons that move you, whether physically, mentally, or emotionally.

I pour a huge amount of unseen energy into the teaching side of my work, but I can’t also be everyone’s admin person. By taking responsibility for your own bookings, you help me preserve the time and focus I need to prepare classes that truly support you, the kind that help you feel grounded, uplifted, and more connected to yourself.

People often imagine that being a yoga teacher is all calm voices and incense - but it’s also planning, preparation, administration, and a lot of care for the people who walk through the door. I love what I do deeply and it’s not just a business. It’s my life’s work, my passion, and my purpose. I’m fortunate to have an incredible community of students who show up with kindness, curiosity, and heart. But like anyone holding space for others, I also need to be respected in order to keep giving my best.

Running classes, events, and workshops is something I pour my energy into every single week. Respecting start times, bringing your equipment, and managing your bookings are simple ways you can honour that exchange, the balance between giving and receiving.

This message doesn’t come from frustration, but from care. I want every single person who walks into class to feel welcome, grounded, and supported. And for that to happen, we all play a part.

So thank you: truly, for showing up, for respecting the space, for being part of something that goes beyond movement and stretches. It’s about community, mindfulness, and shared respect, both on and off the mat.

The smalls acts of intention matter more than you may realise.

Naomi Hurst