A Yoga mat is one of the basic needs when you start your yoga practice. This is the first yoga accessories your yoga teacher would probably remind you to bring on your first day. Whether you practice Yoga indoors or outdoors, you will need a proper way to save your Energy by avoiding touching the ground. There is more to a yoga mat, for sure. With many benefits, yoga mats have several problems that may sour your experience. Here are some pros and cons of yoga mats you should consider.
A yoga mat is a floor cover that is used for multiple reasons. A typical yoga mat is designed according to your height to assure that you can practice all sorts of yoga methods like backward positioning, seated poses, and meditating while lying. A mat is a modern age replacement of cloth or natural cushioning material used by ancient yogis while performing Yoga.
A typical yoga mat is made of cotton, rubber, or polyvinyl to balance your body while in practice. You can opt for any rug you prefer based on your need. Each yoga mat type has specific uses and benefits given the surface condition.
Properties of an Ideal Yoga Mat are:
Note: Look for the Length of the yoga mat before purchasing it. Usually, yoga mats come in a fixed size and Length.
Using a yoga mat during the practice is helpful for your health, directly or indirectly. Yoga mat being your first assistant in a yoga class takes care of many things that help you correct your body posture and avoid many severe physical conditions.
The soft and thick rubbery material also assists you to stay comforted while you put pressure on your knees, ankles, and heels during a specific seated pose like butterfly and lotus pose. Without a mat, you cannot perform these poses for an extended period. You can comfortably switch your position from one pose to another with the help of a Yoga Mat. The surface gets covered with a padded rug to help you release a particular posture and prepare for the next step instantly.
A yoga mat is made of a thermal insulator polyvinyl that conserves your Energy by preventing your body from touching the ground. This Energy is vital as your body activates different parts and points using the vital life force circling inside your mechanism. Yoga is all about utilizing the stored and deactivated Energy and supplying it to various body parts.
While arching and spreading your body on the surface, you are more at risk of slipping an/d skidding. This may also lead to injuries and improper posture formation. A yoga mat offers you a better grip while practicing and perfects your postures. Don’t imagine what your poses can turn into on uneven surfaces; the impact of a stretch may reverse and turn into a painful experience rather than a mindful practice.
At last, apart from the physical benefits, your yoga can is also your inspiration booster. Every time you look at your yoga mat, it reminds you that you must continue Yoga. Wherever you go, carry it to keep reminding yourself. Once you unroll your yoga mat, it becomes a devotion to have your space and make purposeful use of it.
A yoga mat is an excellent investment for anyone who practices yoga. However, there are a few cons of yoga mat that you should be aware of before purchasing.
A considerable drawback of yoga mats is that they can be challenging to clean. If you're not careful, dirt and sweat can accumulate on the mat, which can be tough to get rid of.
Yoga mats also take up a lot of space, which can be an issue if you don't have much room to store them. This can be hassle while traveling especially when you carry a bulky roll of yoga mat in your backpack.
A bulky piece of Yoga mat can be quite heavy, which can be a problem if you're trying to travel with other stuff.
The material used in yoga mats are usually non-recyclable and not eco-friendly. Once you're done with your mat, it's likely going to end up in a landfill.
Many yoga mats have a strong plastic smell, which can be quite off-putting for some people. If you are allergic to such smells, you mat may not be the right fit for you.
Conclusion on Pros and Cons of Yoga Mat
Yoga is also a sacred practice that has been in continuation for centuries. Ancient yogis used different stuff to put beneath their bodies as energy conservators, padding, or to gain body balance. With changing times, the old thing has just got polished and shaped into more advantageous accessories like yoga mats.