Tired of slip-sliding on your so-called sticky mat? Use a yoga rug or a naturally-made mat instead.

09.06.2005

The Bite:
Yoga makes you feel, act and look good. How ironic, then, to use a plastic as toxic as PVC (polyvinylchloride) in yoga mats, especially when you slip on it anyway? Instead, use natural yoga mats and rugs that absorb your sweat, don’t slip, and can be cleaned and washed easily.
The Benefits: 
  • Natural yoga mats aren’t made of PVC, which is considered to be the most toxic of all plastics, and is found in more than 90% of today’s sticky mats.
  • Good for you (spiritually and physiologically) and the environment.
  • Can be cleaned with a cloth, washed in a bathtub or even machine and air-dried.
  • Absorbs your sweat effectively and provides traction even when wet.
  • The feeling of natural fiber under your feet is great.
Personally Speaking: 
Heather is trying to practice yogic non-attachment and get rid of her ancient PVC mat, but it’s going to be a difficult parting. Since Jen is new to yoga, it was an easy choice to buy an eco-mat as her first mat, and give up the bath towels she was using while doing the Rodney Yee DVD.
Wanna Try: 
  • Intent USA- started by a yogini out of her desire to unify a passion for yoga,design, health and sustainability. Intent sells a great “Eco Yoga Mat”($45) and an eco-friendly “Recycled Organic Cotton Yoga Rug.”
  • Gajahgoogoo Mysore- yoga rugs ($36-$48) handmade in India on the same style of hand loom that has been used for generations, but with a few extras to fit our modern lifestyle. Free shipping to US if you buy at least 6 rugs.

Cocktail Fact

The word “guru” actually means “light-bringer,” which is why it is used as a word for “teacher” – bringing the light of knowledge.

Bang For The Bite

For millennia, yoga in India has traditionally been practiced on hand-woven cotton rugs. If you use a natural sticky mat, $45 is a very small price to pay for a superior option that threads back through the ages.

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