Citta Flow Code of Ethics & Practice

At Citta Flow, our teaching is grounded in clarity, consistency, and care.

This Code of Ethics & Practice outlines the standards that support a safe, steady, and welcoming experience for every student. It ensures all classes reflect a consistent and thoughtful approach, while upholding the integrity of the student–teacher relationship and the responsibility that comes with it.

Our Intention

Citta Flow offers Hatha Yoga in a calm, steady, and accessible way, grounded in a classical lineage passed through experienced teachers.

While our teaching is centred in the physical and breath-led practice of Hatha Yoga, it also reflects the broader principles of yoga—supporting steadiness of mind, clarity, and self-awareness in a practical and accessible way.

Many of our students are new to yoga, returning after time away, or seeking a practice that supports their overall wellbeing without pressure or overwhelm.

As teachers, we recognise the position of trust we hold and take responsibility for creating an environment where students feel safe—physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Our Core Values

Our teaching is guided by five key principles:

Clarity
Clear, simple instruction supports understanding and safe practice.

Safety
Students are encouraged to move within their own capacity.

Consistency
A steady structure creates confidence and ease.

Simplicity
The practice remains grounded in classical Hatha Yoga, without unnecessary complexity.

Respect
Every student is welcomed as they are, without judgement or expectation.

Ethical Foundations

Teachers at Citta Flow commit to maintaining high professional and ethical standards:

  • To provide a safe and supportive environment for all students

  • To treat all students equally, without discrimination

  • To maintain ongoing learning and personal practice

  • To teach within the scope of their training and experience

  • To maintain professional boundaries at all times

  • To act with honesty, integrity, and respect

We recognise the teacher–student relationship and take care not to misuse trust, influence, or authority in any way.

Teaching Approach

Teachers are expected to:

  • Provide clear verbal guidance (not just posture names)

  • Maintain a steady, breath-led pace

  • Offer appropriate options and modifications

  • Encourage students to listen to their bodies

  • Create a calm, supportive atmosphere

Students should never feel pressured to push further into a posture.
Rest is always welcomed.

Class Structure

Classes follow a consistent and familiar rhythm:

  • Arrival and settling time

  • Opening with three OM’s (optional participation)

  • Gentle centring or breath awareness

  • Warm-up movements

  • Standing postures

  • Seated or supine postures

  • Savasana (minimum 8 minutes)

  • Closing with one OM

Consistency supports a sense of safety and ease for students.

Style of Yoga

Citta Flow teaches classical Hatha and Hatha Vinyasa Yoga in a steady, breath-led way.

Classes are:

  • Structured and clearly guided

  • Grounded in traditional practice

  • Focused on breath, movement, and stillness

Gentle Hatha

Accessible, slower-paced classes focused on comfort and gradual movement.

Restorative Yoga

A supported, still practice designed to encourage deep rest and nervous system regulation.

Student Relationships & Boundaries

Teachers maintain professional, respectful relationships with all students.

This includes:

  • Communicating with honesty and care

  • Making realistic statements about the benefits of yoga

  • Respecting each student’s beliefs, background, and personal boundaries

  • Avoiding any form of exploitation, coercion, or inappropriate behaviour

Any form of harassment, manipulation, or sexual relationship with a student is unethical and not permitted.

Teachers maintain clear professional boundaries and avoid dual relationships that may impair judgement or compromise the integrity of the teaching environment.

Confidentiality & Trust

Teachers respect the privacy of all students.

  • Personal information shared in class is treated with discretion

  • Student experiences are not discussed outside the studio

  • Confidentiality is maintained unless required by law or safety concerns

Trust is central to the student experience and must be upheld at all times.

Student Experience & Safety

Teachers are responsible for creating a safe and supportive environment.

This includes:

  • Welcoming new students and helping them feel at ease

  • Offering clear guidance and appropriate modifications

  • Encouraging students to work within their limits

  • Reminding students they may rest at any time

Teachers do not diagnose injuries or provide medical advice.
Students are encouraged to take responsibility for their own wellbeing and to seek guidance from an appropriate healthcare professional where needed.

Students should inform the teacher before class of any injuries, medical conditions, or concerns that may affect their practice.

Professional Conduct

Teachers represent Citta Flow and uphold a high standard of professionalism.

Communication

  • Clear, respectful, and supportive

  • Honest about qualifications and scope of practice

  • Free from exaggerated claims about outcomes

Integrity

  • Teaching is offered for the benefit of students, not personal gain

  • Financial and professional dealings are transparent and fair

  • Colleagues and other teachers are treated with respect

Studio Responsibilities

Teachers support the smooth running of the studio by:

  • Arriving early and prepared

  • Beginning and ending classes on time

  • Maintaining a clean and welcoming space

  • Ensuring props are returned neatly

Late entry is not permitted once class has begun, to protect the experience of those present.

Health & First Aid

All teachers hold current First Aid and CPR certification.

If a student becomes unwell:

  • Assistance is provided within the teacher’s level of training

  • Additional help is sought where needed

  • Emergency services are contacted if required

Students are responsible for managing their own health during class and are encouraged to:

  • Practise within their own limits

  • Rest when needed

  • Inform the teacher immediately if they feel unwell, dizzy, or uncomfortable

Student safety is always the priority.

Commitment to the Citta Flow Standard

By teaching at Citta Flow, teachers agree to uphold this Code of Ethics & Practice and align with the values, structure, and teaching approach of the studio.

Together, we create a space that is steady, respectful, and grounded—where students can move, breathe, and return to themselves with confidence.