How we practice together
Eight Limbs takes its name from the eight limbs of yoga, a traditional framework for understanding yoga as more than physical postures. It includes how we relate to ourselves, to each other, and to the world around us. These agreements are our modern interpretation of that framework.
At Eight Limbs, we're building more than a yoga studio.
We're building a neighborhood practice.
Everyone who walks through these doors—students, teachers, first-timers, longtime practitioners, guests, and curious newcomers—is part of the same community.
The guidelines below aren't rules to follow as much as agreements we make with one another about how we show up together. They’re shared values that help us build a welcoming, curious, and connected community.
At Eight Limbs, we’re not trying to own anyone’s practice. We’re here to support it.
1. Come as you are
You don’t need to be flexible, experienced, fit, spiritual, or particularly “good at yoga”. You simply need to show up.
Yoga meets you where you are—not the other way around. There is no "right kind of person" for yoga, and there is no expectation that you arrive already knowing what you're doing.
Everyone is a beginner at something. Every body is welcome. Every starting point is valid.
2. Practice, don’t perform
Yoga is not a competition. This is not a space to prove yourself, compare yourself to others, or chase perfection.
Some days your practice will feel strong. Some days it will feel sleepy, awkward, distracted, or uncomfortable.
That's all part of it. The goal isn't to do yoga perfectly. The goal is to practice.
3. Lead with curiosity
Questions are welcome here. Experimentation is welcome here. Changing your mind is welcome here.
If something doesn't work for your body, adjust it. If you're unsure, ask. If you're learning, wonderful.
Curiosity is a better teacher than certainty.
4. Respect every body
Every body is different. Bodies have different histories, abilities, injuries, identities, energies, and needs.
We honor that by avoiding assumptions, unsolicited corrections, or comments about someone else's body or practice.
Your yoga doesn't have to look like anyone else's. We trust each person to be in relationship with their own experience.
5. Share responsibility of community
A studio is not something you consume, it's something we create together.
Say hello. Learn names. Welcome newcomers. Put away props. Help keep the space tidy. Offer kindness freely.
Small acts of care make a big difference.
6. Teachers are part of the community
“Teacher” is a role, not a status. Teachers are not separate from the community—they are part of it.
They are practitioners alongside everyone else. They're here to guide, support, and share their experience—not to be perfect, all-knowing, or placed on a pedestal.
We value humility, curiosity, generosity, and lifelong learning.
7. Practice in abundance
We believe yoga is bigger than any one studio, teacher, or class.
Teachers are welcome to teach elsewhere. Students are welcome to practice elsewhere.
We support exploration, collaboration, and connection throughout the broader Portland yoga community.
We are not interested in ownership or exclusivity. Our role is not to be the only place you practice. Our role is to be a place you genuinely want to return to.
We’re here to create, not compete. There is enough room for all of us to thrive.
8. Make space for others
Notice how you take up space—physically, energetically, and socially.
Arrive on time whenever possible. Silence your phone. Be mindful in shared space.
Everyone deserves the opportunity to land fully in their practice.
9. Assume good intentions
We're all human. We'll occasionally make mistakes, miss cues, or misunderstand one another.
When that happens, we choose conversation over judgment and curiosity over criticism.
Community isn't built by avoiding discomfort; it's built by navigating it together.
10. Support accessibility
We believe yoga should be approachable and available to more people.
That means meeting people where they are, reducing unnecessary barriers, and creating opportunities for participation in different ways.
Accessibility isn't someone else's responsibility. It's something we all help create.
11. Practice with lightness
Yoga can be meaningful without being heavy.
You’re allowed to laugh, wobble, rest, modify, ask questions, and have an imperfect day.
Take the practice seriously if you want to. Just don’t feel obligated to take yourself too seriously.
Relax. It’s just yoga.
Thank you for being part of this community.