Handling Emergencies in Yoga Class—A Step-by-Step Guide

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No one attends a yoga class expecting a medical emergency, but unexpected events can happen any time and anywhere. In over a decade of owning multiple studios, I’ve witnessed a range of incidents and learned the importance of having a clear plan. Below, I’ll share a detailed, step-by-step guide for yoga teachers, studio owners, and even regular practitioners. By understanding these protocols, you’ll be better prepared to help yourself or someone else in an emergency situation.

1. Stay Calm

Why It Matters:
In a crisis, your composure is your most valuable asset. Even if your heart is racing, a calm demeanor helps you think logically. As the teacher or person in charge, your reaction sets the tone for everyone in the room.

Action Steps:

• Take a deep breath to center yourself.
• Speak slowly and clearly when directing others.
• Remember that panic spreads quickly—if you appear calm, students will follow your lead.

2. Assess the Situation & Act

Unresponsive Student:

• Call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately. Time is of the essence.
• Inform them of your studio address, the specific location (e.g., “We’re in the upstairs studio room”), and the nature of the situation.
• Keep the operator on the line and follow instructions.
• If someone with medical training (doctor, nurse, EMT) is present, ask for their assistance.

Responsive Student:

• Have them sit down or lie down safely. You don’t want them to fall or injure themselves further.
• Ask basic questions: “Are you in pain?” “Where does it hurt?” “Can you breathe normally?” “What do you feel right now?”
• If they seem disoriented or in severe distress, calling an ambulance may still be necessary.

When In Doubt:

• Call for professional help. It’s always better to err on the side of caution.

3. If the Situation Doesn’t Resolve Quickly, Cancel Class

Why Cancel:
If you’ve spent a few minutes trying to help and the situation remains serious or unclear, it’s best to call off the class. Student health and safety come first.

Action Steps:

• Politely but firmly ask other students to exit the studio to give privacy and space to the person in distress.
• Invite one trusted individual to stay behind and assist if you need extra hands. Most students will understand and appreciate your prioritizing safety.

4. Coordinate With Emergency Services

When paramedics arrive, your job is to facilitate their efforts:

1. Provide Clear Information:
   • Student’s full name.
   • Approximate age (if known).
   • What happened in class leading up to the incident (e.g., “He fainted during savasana”).
   • Any known medical history (if you have it on file or the student mentioned it).
2. Emergency Contact:
   • Call the student’s emergency contact (if you have it on record or via your studio’s app).
   • Provide them with the hospital/clinic details if the student is taken away.
3. Belongings:
   • Gather the student’s phone, wallet, and other personal items.
   • Send them with the student or ensure they’re safely stored until they can be returned.

You Are Not Required to Go:

• You can choose to go with the student if you feel comfortable or if it’s necessary, but it’s not obligatory. Ensure you remain available to communicate with family members or other studio staff.

5. Post-Emergency Follow-Up

Inform Studio Management:

• If you’re not the owner, promptly call the studio owner or manager to explain what happened.
• Provide as many details as possible.

Document Everything:

• Take notes (and, if relevant, photos) of the incident scene, time, and actions taken.
• Include any witness statements or comments from other students.

Check In on the Student:

• Reach out the next day (or as soon as appropriate) to see how they’re doing.
• Offer support or additional resources if needed.

Additional Considerations

1. CPR and First Aid Certification:
   • Every yoga teacher should consider getting CPR and first aid certified. This knowledge and skill set could save a life.
2. Emergency Protocol Training:
   • Studio owners should organize regular trainings on how to handle various emergencies (medical, fire, etc.).
   • This ensures everyone is on the same page and knows what to do under pressure.
3. Emergency Files:
   • Keep a physical or digital file containing all emergency procedures, phone numbers, and studio addresses.
   • Make sure staff can find this file easily and quickly.
4. Student Emergency Contacts on File:
   • Most studios collect this info at registration, but confirm that you have easy access to it, either on a studio app or sign-in system.
5. If You’re the One in Distress:
   • Don’t hesitate to let a student or colleague take charge.
   • Ask someone to retrieve emergency contacts and call for help immediately.

Final Thoughts

Emergencies are stressful, but preparedness and a calm, systematic approach can make all the difference. Whether you’re a studio owner, yoga teacher, or a student, knowing the basics of emergency response ensures everyone stays safe and gets the help they need as quickly as possible. Hopefully, these guidelines give you the confidence to handle a crisis if it ever arises—and fingers crossed you’ll never need to.

Thank you for reading, and stay safe on and off the mat!

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Disclaimer: This post is based on personal experience and is not a substitute for professional medical or legal advice. Always consult with certified professionals for comprehensive emergency training.https://www.instagram.com/arundhati_baitmangalkar/