Yoga has emerged as a sanctuary for both physical and mental well being. Its popularity has soared, with enthusiasts worldwide embracing its transformative power.
However, amidst the allure of yoga, lies a crucial element often overlooked: the yoga mat. This seemingly simple accessory plays a vital role in enhancing your practice and assisting in a comfortable and ultimatley enriching experience.
Choosing the perfect yoga mat is an individual experience so I have put together a few basic points to assist you in your research.
- Material : Yoga mats are made from a variety of materials the most common being PVC, TPE,natural rubber, and cork but also pseudo suede and cotton. PVC has long been the most common type of yoga mat but not the most eco friendly option and this is slowly changing. TPE is a newer material, environmentally friendly, latex free and has a reasonable grip. TPE is also light in weight, around 1 kg making it user friendly when carrying it. Natural rubber mats are durable, eco friendly and with the new high grip surfaces made from a thin film of polyurethane it makes for a super grippy mat. It is a heavier mat, about 3 kg but sits well on the ground and does not slip. There is also the cork mat which is eco friendly, but can be a bit slippery to start with. It is also a heavier mat much like the natural rubber mat, providing a stable base.
- Thickness: The thickness and sponginess of your yoga mat will affect how much cushioning you have and if you have sensitive joints, you will need a mat that supports your joints.The standard would be to choose a 5mm mat but also a mat that has a slight recoil or cushioning to it to support your joints.
- Size: Typically, yoga mats come in a few different widths. The most common being 61cm wide and 68 cm wide. They also come in different lengths and can range from 180cm to 215cm. For most of us the standard length yoga mat will be sufficient but for those who are needing extra length mats, they are available, but the search for them may take a little longer.
- Pricing: Yoga mats can be priced anywhere from R 150 to R 2500 rand. Choose the best mat that you can afford for the budget you have. Your yoga mat is an investment and you don’t want to be replacing yoga mats every 6 months just because it is cheaper in the short term. Always start with the end goal in mind. 🙂
These are your basic points to consider when choosing a mat. Of course, if you are able to “try before you buy” a mat that is a great way to go! Reading reviews of yoga mats will also help you on your selection.
Caring of your yoga mat as per the manufacturers guidelines is also an essential part of maintaining the integrity and longevity of your mat.
See you on the mat!
Alex
PS type the discount code ” Yoga ” to receive 20% off your yoga mat purchase.
