Ideal Bite

Are you into yoga just for the healthy image?

Submitted by tmeronek on Tue, 12/18/2007 - 2:32am.

The Bite:

Stop frontin'. Get a natural yoga mat - one free of the harmful plastic PVC. They're better for you and help avoid the number-one telltale sign that you're a bluffer - slipping during your asanas.

The Benefits:

Less PVC. 90% of yoga mats contain PVC plastic, which releases carcinogenic dioxins during production.
Less slippage. Natural rubber and fibers like jute provide better traction than plastic.
Staying true to yoga. The yogic pillar of ahimsa calls for nonviolence to all things, including the planet.
Easy care. Depending on the material, you can clean natural mats with a cloth, in the bathtub, or even in the washing machine.

Personally Speaking:

If you ever stop by our SF office, don't be surprised if you find us doing headstands next to the reception desk.

Wanna Try:

Dali Mama Eco Jute Mat - has built-in Velcro closures and a shoulder strap for easy toting; six color options ($78).
Jade Harmony Yoga Mat - biodegradable, no-slip natural rubber mat available in eight colors; the company plants a tree for every mat sold ($50).
JustMyMat - more like old-school PVC mats but made from eco-friendlier TPE foam; you choose the color and a personal message ($41).
50 Ways to Reuse Your Yoga Mat - bright ideas like using your old mat for sound-proofing, or to create ornaments and mouse pads.