Swasti Yoga Center – Code of Conduct

I. Introduction

The Swasti Yoga Center Code of Conduct (Code) applies to all Members of the Swasti Yoga Center community, including students, teachers, therapists, staff, volunteers, and collaborators. Every Member is required to submit an official Acknowledgement confirming their understanding of and agreement to follow the Code.

Rooted in the Yamas and Niyamas of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, this Code reflects ethical and professional behavior aligned with Swasti Yoga Center’s mission to promote integrity, excellence, and wellness through authentic yoga practices.

II. Purpose

Swasti Yoga Center strives to maintain a globally recognized institution for yoga education, research, therapy, and sustainable living. The primary goals of this Code are to:

Promote safe, inclusive, and respectful yoga environments
Assure professional conduct among Swasti Yoga Center Members
Uphold standards aligned with AYUSH, Yoga Certification Board (YCB), and international yoga protocols
Develop public trust in certified yoga professionals

III. Core Ethical Foundation: Yamas and Niyamas

Members are expected to uphold the following ethical guidelines:

Yamas: Ahimsa (non-harming), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (moderation), Aparigraha (non-possessiveness)
Niyamas: Shaucha (purity), Santosha (contentment), Tapas (discipline), Svadhyaya (self-study), Ishvarapranidhana (surrender to higher power)

IV. Principles of Professional Conduct

Adherence to Law and Policies

Members must comply with all local, state, national, and international laws, including Indian IT Act, DPDPA (Digital Personal Data Protection Act), AYUSH, and child protection laws.
Members must follow Swasti Yoga Center’s scope of practice and anti-harassment/sexual misconduct policy.

Anti-Harassment and Anti-Discrimination

Harassment or abuse in any form—verbal, physical, sexual, or online—is strictly prohibited.
Members must not discriminate based on age, gender, ethnicity, religion, ability, body type, or economic status.
Inclusivity is an active practice. Reasonable accommodations must be made for people with disabilities.

Respect in Student-Teacher Relationships

Consent-Based Touch: Teachers must obtain informed, ongoing consent before physical adjustments.
No Romantic Relationships during training or courses. If attraction develops, students must be referred elsewhere.
Consent to Record: Students’ images, videos, or testimonials must not be used without written permission.

Teaching Responsibility and Integrity

Members must never teach under the influence of drugs or alcohol (except prescribed medication).
All classes must prioritize student safety. Contraindications and modifications must be clearly communicated.
Teaching beyond one’s certification or misleading representation is prohibited.

Cultural and Social Responsibility

- Members should honor yoga’s Indian origins and avoid cultural appropriation.
- They should educate students about the lineage, style, and traditions of yoga.
- Adapt teachings respectfully for different cultural and socio-economic contexts.

V. Digital and Communication Ethics

Misuse of Swasti digital platforms, such as trolling or hate speech, is a violation of this Code.
Materials (manuals, videos, lectures) are proprietary and must not be copied or redistributed without permission.
Members must not provide medical advice or services outside their jurisdiction or license.

VI. Honesty in Communication

No exaggeration of yoga benefits or credentials.
Acknowledge sources, teachers, or mentors when sharing teachings.
Members should maintain a list of mental and physical health referrals for students when appropriate.

VII. Financial Ethics and Transparency

All fees, scholarship terms, and payment policies must be honored as per agreed terms.
Financial misconduct, false claims, or unethical marketing is strictly prohibited.

VIII. Grievance Redressal and Appeals

Filing a Grievance

Email: info@swastiyogacenter.com
All grievances are confidential and reviewed for compliance with this Code and other legal/ethical standards.

Appeals

A Member may appeal a decision only if:

There was a procedural lapse
New evidence has emerged that was not previously available

IX. Disciplinary Action

Violation of this Code may result in:

Warning, suspension, or expulsion from programs
Revocation of certifications
Legal action under applicable Indian or international law

Swasti Yoga Center reserves the right to take appropriate action at its sole discretion.

X. Legal Jurisdiction

This Code is governed by the laws of India, and all disputes are subject to the jurisdiction of courts in Pune, Maharashtra.

XI. Acknowledgement of Agreement

By joining any Swasti Yoga Center program, event, or training, you acknowledge that:

You have read, understood, and agree to this Code of Conduct.
You will uphold yogic values and act in accordance with the law.
Violations may result in consequences as outlined herein.

Swasti Yoga Center, Pune, India
Visit: www.swastiyogacenter.com
Contact: contact.swastiyoga@gmail.com, info@swastiyogacenter.com