Why no Shoes on the Yoga Room Floor?

Yoga is traditionally practiced in bare feet to help us feel stability and connect directly with the ground or mat under our feet. But why else do we remove our shoes before entering a yoga room and beginning our practice?

On a basic level, shoes track in dirt, making the floor unclean. By removing your shoes prior to entering the yoga room, it helps to provide a clean environment in which to practice. The first of the five Niyamas, the moral virtues of yoga, is saucha {purity or cleanliness}. External cleanliness refers to both the physical body and environment. In some cultures and traditions, it’s disrespectful if you walk indoors with your shoes on. The custom of leaving your shoes at the door is a sign of respect.

Removing shoes upon entering a studio or before stepping onto your yoga mat becomes a ritual. This ritual helps to get you prepared to practice and indicates a shift in perspective.

We provide shoe racks near the studio door. Thank you in advance for  respecting  this policy.

Namaste