The Different Types and Benefits of Natural Materials For Yoga Mats And Accessories

Introduction

Yoga is typically a way of life for many people across the globe. They begin their days with yoga before moving on to the more mundane tasks of everyday life. The benefits of yoga need no introduction; the practice, which originated thousands of years ago, has received immense scientific backing over the years. The primary benefit that one derives from practising yoga is stress control. And the accessories make a significant difference in engaging in this enriching activity.

Several eco-friendly yoga accessories are available in the market. Among these products, a good yoga mat is essential to ensure a hassle-free yoga session. Most of the already existing yoga mats are made of materials like PVC, posing a significant environmental risk. These PVC mats are made using products derived out of petroleum and are thus harmful in the long run as they are non-biodegradable and simply pile up in the environment.

Here are several natural materials that can be used to make perfect yoga mats and other accessories for yoga:

Eco-Friendly Yoga Mats

1. Cork mats: Recycled rubber corks can be easily used to make yoga mats. These mats are environment-friendly and have the perfect amount of cushioning, enabling one to practise yoga effortlessly. These cork mats can be easily disposed of and recycled instead of being piled up at landfills and causing environmental damage.

1. Rubber mats: Mats made from natural rubber are other sustainable options that one can opt for. Natural rubber for these mats is harvested sustainably with consideration for the environment. The natural rubber derived from trees provides the ultimate cushioning to yoga mats. These mats are also anti-skid, ensuring that asanas are performed safely.

1. Jute yoga mats: Jute yoga mats are ideal for every season. These yoga mats for meditation and workouts absorb moisture well and are incredibly lightweight, allowing one to carry the mat easily from one place to another. These jute mats do not use any latex or silicon materials that could be toxic to the environment.
2. Bamboo mats: Bamboo mats, which are leading the way in sustainability, could be the future of yoga. These mats are made extensively of bamboo and some cotton to add to the variety of mat colours. Bamboo and cotton are both natural materials for yoga mats, providing comfort and grip while being environment-friendly options. Bamboo mats can also absorb odor and sweat. They are easy to maintain and highly versatile; hence, they can fit easily into any space they are stored in.
3. Hemp yoga mats: If there is one material that is taking the market by storm, it is hemp! This material is making its way into the lives of people in numerous ways, from being used in clothes to food and medicines. Hemp yoga mats are ultra-durable and resistant to bacteria. They do not contain any latex and are biodegradable.

1. Cotton mats: Cotton is a classic material; one can never go wrong with a mat made of pure cotton. These mats redefine comfort and are easily washable in the machine. While buying cotton yoga mats online, checking for mats equipped with natural rubber coating is a good idea. This feature ensures that the mat is anti-skid and provides sufficient grip.

Eco-friendly Yoga Accessories

1. Cork rollers: Replacing the regular rollers for cork ones is a good idea to aid muscle relaxation. Cork helps exert the right amount of pressure on the muscles, thus hitting the right spots. The stiff material makes it very durable; therefore, it is a good investment for one’s yoga gear. Cork yoga blocks are also effective workout accessories available today.
2. Cotton yoga straps: Yoga straps are essential for stretching and posture correction. Cotton yoga straps are adjustable and anti-slip, offering ultimate comfort and enhancing mobility.

1. Yoga blocks made of buckwheat: Buckwheat yoga blocks fare much better for the environment than blocks made of foam, which could have negative consequences for the environment in the long run. These buckwheat blocks are easy to maintain and portable as a result of being lightweight.
2. Eco-friendly yoga outfits: Opting for clothes made of eco-friendly materials can make one’s yogic practice more sustainable and environment-friendly. These materials include bamboo viscose, recycled water bottles and organic cotton. Several Indian brands now manufacture clothes using sustainable materials.

1. Recyclable water bottles: It is time to get rid of plastic water bottles to welcome a sustainable lifestyle. Stainless steel water bottles are among the best environment-friendly options to quench one’s thirst after a high-intensity workout. They last for more extended periods and can be recycled easily. Aluminium bottles also bode well for the environment and retain the water’s hot or cold temperature.