While yoga has moved into the mainstream and even beyond the mat − we’ve caught office mates mid-spinal twist − it’s still a centuries-old practice steeped in tradition, so it makes sense to show some respect. Here are our top five etiquette tips, and if we’ve missed a pet peeve, be sure to leave us a note below.

Come to class 10 minutes early, especially if you’re a newbie, to give yourself time for a quick meet-and-greet with your yoga teacher and a chance to set your mat where you’d like. Coming late can interrupt the class flow, as does an unexpected ring tone. Enjoy the hour off the grid; if you must keep your cell on, set it to vibrate.

While yoga is a time for inward focus, you’re also getting up close with fellow yogis, so it’s best to dress (and smell) the part: clean yoga clothes, mat and towel; no perfume; freshly applied deodorant/mouthwash. Women should wear tight-fitting tops so inversions don’t become peep shows. And guys, please no going commando with loose shorts or poses like standing splits can get a little X-rated. A couple more tips: Yoga is a barefoot practice, so leave shoes and socks at the door. And if you sweat, wipe down your area and mat after class to keep things clean for the next group.

Mind the sound

While yoga can sometimes be a social setting before and after class, keep the chit-cat to a minimum as some students might take a short pre- or post-class meditation. And once the teacher is set to start, it’s time to listen. We speak up to 20,000 words a day – enjoy the verbal break.

And mind the Savasana

Don’t ditch out on the end-of-class Savasana (a.k.a. Corpse) – it’s the most important pose of the practice for you and those around you. Corpse pose is a time to rest and let your hard work sink into your body. If you do need to leave early (or take a bathroom break during class), it’s best to go before Corpse and when your fellow yogis aren’t in a balancing pose.

Sign in and pay

Yoga classes typically aren’t free, so be sure to sign in and pay for the experience you’re about to enjoy.

This is a subject that’s gotten A LOT of attention on both my Twitter & Facebook pages. If you’re a yoga instructor or one of those people who likes to practice in the back of the room you’ve probably experienced “a sighting” more than once. (I won’t even bring up standing splits.)

Guys: Big, baggy shorts might be cool on the basketball court, but if you’re going to wear them to yoga class, you might want to include some tighty-whities or a pair of boxers. I’m just saying…

While we’re on the subject of what to wear or not to wear to class, remember: Yoga is a barefoot practice. So take off your shoes before you walk into class. Your socks, too. For women, a tight-fitting top is a must…so when you go upside down your top doesn’t end up over your head.

Have questions or personal insights on what to wear (or not) to a yoga class? Please post them in the comments, or email them to info@thenoomzone.com. I would love to hear from you!!