General Liability Waiver & Release

Please read carefully. By participating in yoga classes with Michelle Dortignac, you acknowledge that you understand and agree to the following terms. Note that you’ll need to sign a hard copy of this waiver at the studio before your first class:

1. Age Requirement
   I confirm that I am at least 18 years of age.
2. Nature of the Activity
   I understand that Michelle Dortignac offers instruction in Hatha Yoga and Hammock-Assisted Yoga. These practices involve a variety of physical movements including inversions, twisting, stretching, balancing, and working with specialized equipment such as yoga hammocks. While every effort is made to create a supportive and safe environment, I acknowledge that participation includes physical exertion and the risk of falling or straining the body.
3. Personal Responsibility for Health
   I confirm that I am in good health and physically able to take part in these activities. I understand that it is my responsibility—not the instructor’s—to consult with a medical professional if I have any doubts or existing health conditions. I agree to participate at my own pace and to make modifications as needed.
4. Awareness and Acceptance of Risk
   I understand that any physical activity comes with the risk of injury, including but not limited to: muscle strain, bruising, dizziness, nausea, numbness, or in rare cases, PERMANENT DISABILITY, PARALYSIS AND DEATH.
5. Voluntary Participation and Assumption of Risk
   I choose to participate voluntarily and accept full responsibility for any risks, injuries, or damages, known or unknown, that I may experience. I understand this includes risks resulting from my own actions, from others in the class, from the environment or equipment, or from ordinary negligence by the instructor, landlord, or equipment provider.
6. Release of Liability
   In consideration of my being permitted to participate in yoga classes with Michelle Dortignac and to use the equipment, I agree to release from all liability, discharge, and covenant not to sue Michelle Dortignac, and anyone connected with the operation or instruction of these classes—including landlords, equipment manufacturers or installers, assistants, and fellow participants. This waiver applies even if I believe an injury was caused in part by ORDINARY NEGLIGENCE.
7. No Claims from Others on My Behalf
   I intend for this waiver to apply not just to me, but also to anyone who might act on my behalf, including heirs, legal representatives, family members, or assigns. I agree that they may not bring claims against Michelle Dortignac in the event of injury, loss, or death.
8. No Assumption of Safety Guarantees
   I understand that this waiver does not imply any guarantee of safety, fitness, or maintenance of the facilities or equipment. If I or anyone on my behalf makes a claim in contradiction of this waiver, I agree to defend and indemnify, save, and hold harmless those named above against any resulting legal or financial consequences.
9. Legal Scope
   This agreement is intended to be as broad and inclusive as the law allows. If any part is found to be invalid, the rest shall remain in full effect. This waiver is governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
10. Acknowledgment
    I have read and understood this document. By participating in yoga classes with Michelle Dortignac, I understand that I am giving up certain legal rights and assuming full responsibility for my participation.