Teachers Code of Ethics

In keeping with the Ethos of the Irish Yoga Association Teacher Training Course, which is based on Patanjali’s Sutras and the Hathayogapradipika, this Code of Ethics is based on the first two steps of Patanjali’s Eightfold Path:
Yamas (personal code) and Niyama (universal code).

It is designed to encourage responsibility and integrity in the teaching of Yoga. It is expected that all Teachers holding an IYA Diploma would adhere to this Code in their various relationships: with themselves, with their students, between themselves and with the world at large. This Code aims to cultivate an attitude of respect for all traditions and teaching of Yoga and an awareness of their essential nature. It may be referred to should a complaint be made against a teacher. The Code applies to Teachers and Tutors on the Teacher Training Course.

Yamas

Ahimsa

Ahimsa (non violence) – teachers will act in a peaceful way through understanding and self-discipline towards themselves and others in a manner which does no harm either verbally, mentally or physically. They will respect all views irrespective of race, creed, political persuasion or sex. Teachers will use encouragement, love and compassion to foster learning and growth.

Satya

Satya (truthfulness) – teachers will act truthfully, harmoniously and sincerely with themselves and others. They should not diagnose a medical condition, prescribe or claim to cure. Where a student’s condition gives rise for their concern, they should suggest consultation with an appropriate practitioner.

Asteya

Asteya (non stealing) – teachers will give willingly what is possible in each situation and will not take from a situation either physically or psychologically. Recognising the responsibility they have to their students, teachers will at all times respect the confidentiality of information regarding their students. They will teach to the very best of their ability with care and compassion giving priority to the welfare of the student.

Brahmacharya

Brahmacharya (non indulgence) – teachers will be wise and balanced in their use of energy.

Aparigraha

Aparigraha (non possessiveness) – teachers will focus on what is needed by any given situation rather than on what may be desired, without seeking undue reward and in a spirit of co-operation.

Rapranidhana

Rapranidhana (devotion to God) – teachers will endeavour to realise the oneness of personal and universal existence.

Niyamas

Saucha

Saucha (purity) – teachers will act with cleanliness of body and mind and strive not to judge or criticise themselves or others.

Santosa

Santosa (contentment) – teachers will cultivate acceptance of where they and others are in their lives / practice of Yoga at any given moment in time so as to acknowledge the whole person in a
holistic way.

Tapas

Tapas (self-discipline) – teachers will aim to make every effort to be aware of the reality of each situation and will aim to develop consciousness so as to progress in body, mind and spirit. Teachers should be fully insured against malpractice and public liability.

Svadyaya

Svadyaya (self study) – teachers will practice awareness of their perception and motivation in all situations in an effort to maintain self-development. After completion of the IYA Teacher
Training Course they will continue their studies and keep themselves informed of contemporary developments in all aspects of Yoga on an on-going and regular basis.

Isvarapranidhana

Isvarapranidhana (devotion to God) – teachers will endeavour to realise the oneness of personal and universal existence.