Protecting Your Yoga Mat
[post-img]A yoga mat comes in many colors, materials and qualities, from synthetic to organic materials such as cotton and hemp. With such a wide variety available, you are sure to find a yoga mat surface that you will feel comfortable with.
Let's first address why your mat is such a necessary tool of your practice. According to several yoga instructors, the correctness of your posture and poses relies on your ability to hold and balance each movement. A yoga mat is needed to assist in stabilizing those poses. When properly designed, a yoga mat will lay firmly and without wrinkle on any surface. You should be able to easily slide your feet, steady your palm, or simply hold a standing pose with ease and without slippage.
[tip-fact]Another consideration is the thickness of the mat. Are you concerned about a recent injury or the care of a week joint or muscle? A thicker mat could provide enough of a cushioned effect to better protect any recent or recurring injuries. In this case, it is always best to consult your yoga instructor in order to get some proper direction.
To ensure the longevity of your yoga mat, it is best to clean it on a regular basis and keep it protected by always storing it in a mat bag. Throughout your practice, you will likely shed hair, skin and oils from your hands and feet. To keep a regularly used mat sanitary, simply use a damp cloth and a mild soap to clean it.
[b-quote]A yoga mat bag is offered in many sizes and shapes. You can also use your bag to carry more than your mat, as most of them will have pockets for towels or water.
Your yoga bag is available in various forms. Some are a simple harness or drawstring nylon bag, while others are more of a specialty item that come in silk brocades or embroidered canvas.
Many manufactures such as Gaiam, Prana, Manduka, Harmony, Tapas and Ashtanga offer a wide array of designs and materials for your mat and bag. Typically, you can expect to pay as low as $10 or as high as $75 for a mat or bag. If possible, it is advisable for you to visit a yoga supplies shop so that you can experience for yourself what type of mat and bag will best suit your needs.
