What is the Advantage and Disadvantage of Purple Yoga Mat

Yoga Mats Are an Important Part of Your Practice

A yoga mat is an integral to one's practice, no matter where they may be executing the asanas ' even an outdoor practice, to help achieve the desired results. Not only does a yoga mat bring comfort and stability with postures, but choosing the right mat can help harmonize the mind, body, and spirit with the nature around us. Choosing an eco-friendly, handmade yoga mat provides the yogi with inherent over machine-made mats made of rubber or one made with PVC.

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With so many yoga mats to choose from, we can make a responsible decision, that's right for us and the environment. Let's dive further into what one should look for in an eco-friendly yoga mat.

How Can I Tell if a Mat Is Eco-Friendly?

There are many companies that try and to be conscious of how their products are made and where their materials are sourced. While this does make choosing a sustainable and eco-friendly mat easier than it was before, as consumers must also have an awareness of potential 'green-washing' claims made by some mat makers.

An true Eco-Friendly hand-made yoga mat should have these qualities:

• Hand Woven Of Natural Materials
• Made Sustainably & Ethically Made
• Hand-made without the use of electricity
• Machine or hand washable
• PVC Free
• Recyclable
• Non-Toxic

Materials Used ' An Ecological Responsibility

There's an assortment of natural materials that can be used to make a yoga mat that is durable, long-lasting and can withstand a rigorous practice. Look for products that are made of 100% natural materials, that will not litter our oceans and the surrounding land, and are manufactured without the use of harmful chemicals that are dangerous for our body and the world we live in.

Some materials that may be used include natural cork, jute, rubber, wool, and cotton. By using such natural materials, we are able to harvest the power of nature without causing it harm. By doing so, we are leaving a smaller footprint in the world.

Handmade Mats Allow the Earth to Breathe

Think about it. Handmade products evoke a pride-of-craftsmanship and can be a labor of love.. A hand-woven mat that has been on the loom of a for days, has an essence and quality that can not be replicated by a machine-made piece of extruded rubber or plastic.

From the weaver's hands to the yogi's hands a special bond is fashioned.

Creating yoga mats by hand, is as natural as the earth. Mats made in the sun, wind and other elements seem to have an intrinsic value and longevity. Choosing handmade mats over commercially produced ones helps the weaving profession, one that has an ancient lineage in India (link to article on Kabir). The purchase of hand-made, sustainable yoga mats helps support this profession insure this traditional practice continues.

Ethically made products and why we should promote them

Ethically made products support the economy and wellbeing of the individuals who worked hard to make them. When a yoga mat is ethically made, it does not only mean it is sourced sustainably. It also means that laborers are paid fair wages, that no child labor is involved in its creation, and that workers are in a safe and secure working environment. Supporting ethically made products creates a healthy atmosphere for everyone, from the sourcing of materials, to the suppliers and laborers, from their hands to yours.

Natural Materials in Yoga Mats

While the use of different natural materials are wonderful in their own way, they have characteristics in and of themselves that you may want to consider.

Jute

Jute is a plant with a naturally rough texture and is a material that is friendly to the wallet. It is a definite pro-planet material that can be sustainably sourced and if damaged, could go back to nature easily without harm. However, yogis who practice more vigorous types of yoga (Astanga) do not find it appealing because of the burns and overall feel of this mat. So it's probably a good choice for a gentler practice.

Pros

• Cheap
• Biodegradable
• Renewable
• Provides good traction
• Lightweight

Cons

• Becomes brittle when exposed to the sun for long periods of time
• Releases some strong but non-toxic odor so needs to be air dried for days before using for the first time
• Naturally rough texture may not be comfortable for some
• Thin

Rubber

Natural rubber mats are enjoyed by some yoga practitioners because of its durability and supportive qualities due to its range in thicknesses that are made available by manufacturers. It is also one of the most long-lasting products available in the market. Just be sure to check that it is sustainably sourced.

Pros

• Resistant to slip
• Cushy and comfortable
• Durable ' to a point
• Comes in different thickness

Cons

• Contains latex
• Initially can have a pungent odor that may be objectionable. This can dissipates with time
• Has to be frequently replaced
• Can melt and crumble after extended periods in the sun.

Cork

Many wonder if cork is truly eco-friendly. From wine bottle stoppers to pinboards in the office and now the industry has gone to create yoga mats with them as well. Indeed, cork is a versatile and eco-friendly material nature has gifted us with. However, the only thing that you might want to think of when considering cork as a yoga mat is that it is quite heavier than other materials so it may not be a good idea to use a cork yoga mat if you often practice outside the house or in a studio where you don't have anywhere to put it.

Pros

• Antimicrobial
• Self-cleaning
• Good surface grip when wet

Cons

• Heavier compared to most mats
• Cost
• Faint cork smell is an 'acquired taste'

Cotton

Cotton is a material used for a long time and is a staple in traditional Mysore and Ashtanga practice. It easily absorbs sweat and provides good traction as it moistens and is a perfect companion when you want to take yoga to the beach. What's good about cotton is its ability to absorb moisture and liquid and hold them well. As your cotton mat moistens, the traction becomes better and better. This is the perfect material to use for hot yoga practices.

Pros

• Absorbs sweat well and keeps mat in place
• Renewable
• Biodegradable
• Easy to clean
• Washable
• Durable and long lasting

Cons

• Can Slip (on the bottom) on smooth surfaces. Pads are available to prevent slippage.
• As a classic and traditional material, cotton with a tight weave is firm. Some people prefer a softer surface

Color Is More Than Just Cosmetics

Believe it or not, choosing the right yoga mat is more than just the materials. Chromotherapy is a therapeutic method that has been around since 500 BC. Color affects the way we think about ourselves, our surroundings, and our emotions in general. So it's no surprise that yoga also incorporates color in order to connect everything around us and focus our minds and center our bodies to achieve better results.

Here are some colors to look out for and what they can do for you.

Blue (Water)

Symbolizes tranquility and serenity. Blue is a color of health as it is a positive color that calms the body and mind. It contains cool vibrations to help you relax and attain solitude, peace, and spiritual sensitivity. Find our blue mats here: Water

White (Air)

White is a color that signifies purity, goodness, safety, and cleanliness. It is a color worn and used in Kundalini yoga because it is believed that white as a prism that balances all colors. It is also believed that white can expand your aura. According to Yogi Bhajan, they use white because they 'wanted to develop a very fast, progressive, spiritual and technical method of all the colors'. Find our dye-free mats here: Air

Purple (Ether)

Purple is a perfect balance between red and blue tying strength and dignity together. It also represents spirituality and passion, and it is considered a good color for meditation. Adding purple to your yoga practice helps to align you with the Oneness of the Universe, to be spiritually connected and fulfilled. Find our purple mats here: Ether

Orange (Saffron)

In Buddhism, monks wear the color of saffron to symbolize simplicity as well as their detachment from any material things in order to attain Moksha.

With competitive price and timely delivery, Silipi Technology sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.

Orange is a color for wisdom. It is a loud color that calls for attention and is hence used to denote energy and joy. It emanates when the sun rises to call for a new beginning or a new light. Orange can also be a symbol of maturity like a fruit that has ripened. Orange mats can be found here: Saffron

Brown (Earth)

Brown is a neutral color that helps stabilize mind and body. It helps you feel grounded (no pun intended) to help make you feel a sense of belonging. Brown helps your mind and body to focus by creating a peaceful atmosphere and connect every natural thing to you.

Brown is an organic color that is present in your natural surroundings. And although it looks dull, brown is associated with the feeling of friendliness and warmth, allowing you to relax in the company of others. Shop your brown mat here: Earth

Green (Spring)

Green is the 4th chakra which is the color standing for heart, therefore it is considered to connote love, integration, and compassion. It gives off a soothing, calm, and relaxing feel which eases negative emotions and helps heal the mind and soul.

Green is the color of Spring. It not only helps stimulate growth but also helps renew and restore lost energy. If you find yourself wanting to heal your heart and invoke positive healing for your emotions, green is the way to go. Yogasana's green mats are here: Spring

Red (Fire)

Excitement, energy, and power is what this color stimulates. It increases the activity of the brain, increases respiration, heart rate, and blood pressure. It is a warm color symbolizing the blood that gives life to our bodies, the color that gives us the feeling of excitement, and alerts us if there is danger ahead. Using red in yoga practice gives you courage and a stronger willpower. It tells your body to continue on despite the difficulty so that at the end of the day, you feel fulfilled and stable mentally, physically, and spiritually.

Selecting a proper yoga mat means more than choosing products based on budget and style. We should be conscience of the way your mat is made, the materials used, the recyclability of these materials and the skilled labor employed. Your wise choice will help to make a better world'now and in the long run. Find your red mat here: Fire

Picking Your Favorite Mat

Choosing the right color also helps to align your intentions to your practice and your heart desires.

In the end, what's most important is to choose a mat that helps harmonize your practice and the space around you. Unite = Yoga

Yoga is a great way to improve physical and mental health, but it's important to have the right equipment to get the most out of your practice. One of the most important pieces of equipment for any yogi is the yoga mat. Choosing your yoga mat is such a personal choice. There are several different types of yoga mats available, each with their own unique benefits. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the different types of yoga mats and their pros and cons.

PVC Yoga Mats

PVC mats often look like this one

PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a synthetic plastic material that is commonly used to make yoga mats. Here are some of the pros and cons of PVC mats:

Pros:

• PVC mats are very affordable and widely available.
• They are durable and can last a long time with proper care.
• PVC mats are lightweight, making them easy to carry to and from yoga classes.
• They provide good grip and traction, making them ideal for beginners.
• PVC mats are easy to clean and maintain.

Cons:

• PVC mats are not eco-friendly and most end up in landfill and cannot be recycled easily.
• Carcinogenic - PVC has been proven to be carcinogenic and cannot be used for sweaty or vigorous practices as when they heat with energy or from hot yoga, they release chemicals and sweat toxins. That is why they smell of chemical plastic. 
• They are not biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to decompose.
• PVC mats can be slippery when wet or sweaty, in the old days chalk would be provided to use on your mat when this happened, adding particles to the air.
• They are not as cushioned or supportive as other types of mats, which may be uncomfortable for some users and break down in cushioning. 
• PVC mats can emit a strong odour, especially when new.

TPE Yoga Mats

TPE, or thermoplastic elastomer, is a newer material that is becoming increasingly popular for yoga mats. TPEs are a blend of a polymer and rubber that combine the properties of both thermoplastics and elastomers. They are soft and rubbery, and are often used in household objects like toothbrush grips, sippy cup lids, and cases. Here are some of the pros and cons of TPE mats:

Pros:

• TPE mats are somewhat eco-friendly and can be recycled.
• They are lightweight and easy to carry.
• TPE mats are hypoallergenic and free from harmful chemicals.
• They provide good grip and traction, making them ideal for beginners.
• They are comfortable and provide good cushioning.

Cons:

• TPE mats may not last as long as other types of mats and break apart.
• They are more expensive than PVC mats.
• The edge of the mats curls up and affects your practice, they are not grounding.
• TPE mats can be slippery when wet or sweaty.
• They may not provide as much grip or support as other types of yoga mats due to lighter base.
• TPE yoga mats may have a slight rubbery smell.
• TPE is still a form of plastic. TPEs are a blend of a polymer and rubber that combine the properties of both thermoplastics and elastomers. 

NBR Synthetic Rubber Yoga Mats

NBR, or nitrile butadiene rubber, is a synthetic rubber material that is commonly used for yoga mats. It is fabricated through the co-polymerization of acrylonitrile (ACN) (polar building block) and 1.3-butadine (nonpolar building block). Here are some of the pros and cons of NBR mats:

Pros:

• NBR yoga mats are affordable and widely available.
• They are durable indoor use and can last a long time with proper care.
• NBR yoga mats are cushioned and provide good support for joints.
• They are non-slip and provide good traction.
• NBR yoga mats are easy to clean and maintain.

Cons: 

• NBR yoga mats are not eco-friendly and can release harmful chemicals during production and during exercise use.
• They are not biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to decompose.
• NBR yoga mats can be heavy and difficult to carry.
• They may have a strong rubbery smell.
• NBR yoga mats may not provide as much grip as other types of mats.
• NBR yoga mats are not suitable for outdoor use, weathering or any exposure to the elements, It is therefore not advisable for outdoor applications.

Natural Rubber and Polyurethane (PU) Yoga Mats

Natural rubber and polyurethane (PU) mats are a popular choice for eco-conscious yogis. Here are some of the pros and cons of natural rubber and PU mats:

Pros:

• Natural rubber and PU mats are eco-friendly and most are biodegradable.
• They are durable and can last a long time with proper care.
• These mats provide good grip and traction when sweaty.
• They are comfortable and provide good cushioning.
• Natural rubber and PU mats are easy to clean and maintain.

Cons:

• Natural rubber and PU yoga mats tend to be more expensive than other materials.
• The natural rubber component of these yoga mats can wear down over time with use, especially on wooden textured floors.
• The PU top at first is very sticky and grips, but that effect wears off and the mat becomes redundant. 
• The combination of materials can result in a strong odour, particularly when the mat is new.
• The texture of the mat may not suit everyone's preferences. If you like flow and mandala yoga, turning around on the mat easily can be difficult. 
• Natural rubber and PU mats may not be as environmentally friendly as other materials.
• They can collect every bit of dust if left out on the floor or pet hairs etc. 
• The sticky effect of PU wears off quickly with daily use, lasting about 1 year with daily use. 
• Cannot be worn with trainers/sneakers as the top will mark easily. Body oils or sweat will stain the top. 

EVA (Ethylene Vinyl acetate) Yoga Mats

EVA (Ethylene Vinyl acetate) yoga mats are lightweight, flexible, and durable with excellent shock absorption and moisture resistance properties.

EVA is an elastomeric (naturally stretchy) polymer that produces materials which are "rubber-like" in softness and flexibility. EVA stands for a plastic which is made by mixing ethylene and vinyl acetate. Together they create a material which is often used for shoe soles in EVA sneakers.

Pros:

• Lightweight and easy to carry.
• Provides good foam cushioning and support.
• Durable and long-lasting.
• Very Affordable.
• Easy to clean and maintain.

Cons:

• Not eco-friendly or biodegradable.
• Can emit an unpleasant odour.
• May compress over time and lose cushioning and support.
• Less traction compared to other materials.
• Can break down quickly due to stress (use) or if exposed to direct sunlight.

Jute Yoga Mats

Jute yoga mats are natural, biodegradable, and provide a non-slip surface with good grip even when wet. Usually these are heat bonded onto a base fabric for grip to surfaces, such as resin or rubber. 

Pros:

• Eco-friendly and biodegradable.
• Natural, non-toxic material.
• Less odour than other materials. 
• Provides good grip and traction.
• Naturally anti-bacterial.
• Durable and long-lasting.
• Highly textured surface, can take use well.

Cons:

• Rough texture can be uncomfortable and scratchy for some practitioners.
• May require a break-in period to improve the grip.
• May become slippery after frequent usage.
• Less cushioning or comfort compared to other materials.
• Can absorb moisture and become heavy.
• Not as easy to clean as other materials.
• Fibres start to break and comes out after a while, you mat will moult. 

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Cotton and Hemp Yoga Mats

Cotton and hemp yoga mats are eco-friendly, absorbent, and provide good cushioning for joints with a soft texture. A nice blend for a natural yoga mat. Again, these are usually bonded onto a base of natural rubber or resin (sometimes they are on their own, like an authentic yoga mat/rug). 

Pros:

• Eco-friendly and biodegradable.
• Natural, non-toxic materials.
• Soft and comfortable for practice.
• Provides good grip and traction.
• Durable and long-lasting.
• Some have ayurveda herbs inside the fabric, which makes them smell lovely.

Cons:

• Less cushioning compared to other materials, so not very supportive on wrists or elbows. 
• Can absorb moisture and become heavy.
• May require a break-in period to improve grip.
• Not as easy to clean as other materials.
• Many shrink or lose shape if not cared for properly.

Cork Yoga Mats

Cork yoga mats are sustainable, non-slip, and antimicrobial with natural cushioning and insulation properties. Cork is an  impermeable buoyant material. It is the phellem layer  of  bark tissue which is harvested for commercial use primarily from Quercus suber (the cork oak), which is native to southwest  Europe  and northwest Africa .

Pros:

• Eco-friendly and sustainable.
• Provides excellent grip and traction.
• Naturally anti-bacterial and odor-resistant.
• Durable and long-lasting.
• Provides good cushioning and support especially with natural rubber base. 

Cons:

• Can be heavy and difficult to carry.
• Higher cost compared to other materials.
• Not as easy to care for as other materials.
• May require a break-in period to improve grip.
• Can trap oils and dirt from the skin, will need cleaning after each session. 
• Top surface can crack easily and flakes off if not well cared for.

Microfiber Yoga Mats

Microfibre yoga mats are lightweight, absorbent, and quick-drying with a soft texture and good grip. Most microfibre yoga mats are heat bonded onto a natural rubber base for surface grip and cushioning. 

Pros:

• Provides excellent grip and traction to all surfaces with no edge curling.
• Soft and comfortable cushioning for practice.
• Excellent for sweaty practices or as the body builds heat the more grip.
• Can be used with trainers/sneakers and weight training so more versatile.
• Grip is good for flow can pivot and turn easily. 
• Natural rubber bases are very grounding and suitable for vegan use.  
• Microfibre is often made from recycled bottles, which is a very thin layer that protects the rubber from wear. 
• Durable and long-lasting.
• Machine washable and very easy to clean.

Cons:

• Can be slippery when first used, may require a break-in period to improve grip by scrubbing up the fibres or spritz with water.
• Can be heavy to carry depending on thickness of natural rubber base. 
• Cannot be left out in direct sunlight as the rubber can dry out. 

Wool Yoga Mats

Wool yoga mats are natural, durable, and provide excellent insulation and cushioning with moisture-wicking properties. A natural fibre from sheep, wool has been used for thousands of years. 

Pros:

• Provides good cushioning and support.
• Suitable for Yin Yoga or Meditation.
• Warm and very comfortable for practice.
• Naturally anti-bacterial and odour-resistant.
• Durable and long-lasting.
• Provides good grip and traction.

Cons:

• May not be suitable for hot yoga or sweaty practices.
• May not suitable for vegans or vegetarians. 
• Can be heavier and more difficult to carry.
• Not as easy to clean as other materials.
• May cause allergies for some practitioners.
• Less availability compared to other materials.

Recycled Neoprene

Recycled neoprene yoga mats are eco-friendly, durable, and provide excellent cushioning with good grip and moisture resistance properties. Made from recycled wetsuit materials that might otherwise go into landfill. 

Pros:

• Recycled materials helps to re-purpose wetsuit neoprene from landfill.
• Provides good grip and traction.
• Durable and long-lasting.
• Provides good cushioning and support.
• Easy to clean and maintain.

Cons:

• May not be as grippy as other materials.
• Can emit an unpleasant odour.
• Less availability compared to other materials.
• Not as natural or non-toxic as other materials.
• Can break down if exposed to direct sunlight.

The type of yoga mat that is right for you depends on your personal preferences and needs. Consider the factors that are most important to you, such as eco-friendliness, grip and traction, cushioning and support, and ease of cleaning. 

Properties of material

When it comes to choosing the right material for a product, there are several properties to consider, and this is no different when it comes to yoga mats, it is such a personal choice to your ethics, standards and use. 

In this blog post, we'll discuss the key properties of yoga mat materials, and why they're important to consider.

1. Texture: The texture of a yoga mat is crucial for providing grip and preventing slipping during practice. Materials such as rubber, jute, and cork tend to have a more textured surface, providing better traction for the hands and feet.
2. Thickness: The thickness of a yoga mat can affect its cushioning and support. Thicker mats are typically better for those with joint pain or sensitive knees, while thinner mats can be easier to transport and provide a stronger connection to the ground.
3. Breathability: Breathability is important for preventing odour and bacterial buildup on the mat. Natural materials like cork and jute tend to have better breathability than synthetic materials like PVC.
4. Free of harmful chemicals: Many yoga mats are made with toxic chemicals that can be carcinogenic and harmful to both the environment and the body. It's important to look for materials that are free of phthalates, PVC, and other harmful chemicals.
5. Durability: Yoga mats need to be durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of regular use. Materials like natural rubber and cork are known for their durability and long-lasting performance.
6. Eco-friendly: As more people become conscious of their impact on the environment, eco-friendliness is an important factor to consider when choosing a yoga mat. Eco-friendly materials like jute, cork, and natural rubber are sustainably sourced and biodegradable. Whilst recycled materials also take existing plastic out of the landfill environment and repurpose it, which is important for future consumption. 
7. Flexibility and weight: A yoga mat needs to be flexible enough to be rolled up and carried around, but also sturdy enough to support a variety of poses. Weight is also a factor to consider for those who need to carry their mat around frequently.
8. Moisture absorption: Materials like microfibre are designed to absorb moisture and sweat during practice, keeping the surface of the mat dry and slip-free. If you are a hot yogi or warm easily or sweat - these mats are easy to clean and care for as well. 
9. Insulation: During outdoor yoga practice, a mat with good insulation can provide warmth and comfort on cold or damp surfaces.
10. Price range: Finally, price range is an important factor to consider for many yogis. While natural materials like cork and jute can be more expensive, synthetic materials like PVC and EVA tend to be more affordable.

Styles of Yoga Mats

When choosing a yoga mat, it's important to consider the properties of the material to ensure that it meets your individual needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize eco-friendliness, durability, or texture, there is a yoga mat material out there for everyone.

1. Traditional/Standard Mats: These are the most common type of yoga mats and are rectangular in shape. They are usually made from PVC, natural rubber, or other materials and come in various thicknesses, textures, and colours. Traditional mats are ideal for beginners and professionals and those who practice a variety of yoga styles. The mat gives you space and shaped in the best way fro most natural practice. 
2. Round/Oval Mats: These mats have a circular or oval shape and are perfect for practicing circular or flowing movements. They provide a larger surface area to move around and are suitable for gentle and restorative yoga.
3. Hourglass Mats: Hourglass-shaped mats are designed to provide additional support and stability for practitioners. They are wider at the ends and narrow in the middle, giving your hands and feet more space to move while keeping your centre of gravity balanced.
4. Square Mats: Square mats are a unique option for yogis who prefer a different shape to the traditional rectangle. They provide more room to move and offer a different aesthetic to the traditional mat.
5. Extra Long Mats: For taller yogis, extra-long mats are ideal as they provide additional length to support the entire body. They can be helpful in preventing injuries caused by not having enough space to move comfortably.
6. Extra Wide Mats: Extra-wide mats are perfect for those who prefer more space to move around or those who have broader shoulders or hips. They provide extra support and stability and are excellent for practicing more challenging yoga poses.
7. Extra Thick Mats: Extra-thick mats are designed to provide more cushioning and support for your joints, making them an ideal option for those with sensitive knees or joints. They also provide additional comfort during longer practices.
8. Extra Thin Mats: Extra-thin mats are lightweight and easy to carry, making them perfect for yogis on-the-go. They provide less cushioning but allow for better balance and stability during yoga poses.
9. Travel Mats: Travel mats are lightweight and easy to carry, designed specifically for yogis who like to practice on-the-go or taking on holiday and retreats. They are thin and foldable, making them easy to pack in a suitcase or backpack. Some are fabric thin, and some (like ours) has a think rubber base for additional support. 
10. Rough Mats: Rough mats provide excellent grip and are perfect for those who tend to sweat during their practice. The texture on these mats prevents slipping and sliding, even during the most challenging poses.
11. Smooth Mats: Smooth mats offer a different aesthetic to the traditional textured mat. They are easy to clean and maintain, making them ideal for those who practice daily.
12. Sticky Mats: Sticky mats provide excellent grip, making them an ideal option for beginners or those with less strength. They have a textured surface that prevents slipping and sliding.
13. Printed Mats: Printed mats offer a unique and fun aesthetic to your practice. They come in various colours and patterns, allowing you to express your personality and style during your practice.
14. Reversible Mats: Reversible mats offer two different textures and colours on each side, providing flexibility and variety during your practice. They are perfect for yogis who like to switch things up regularly.
15. Acupressure Mats: Acupressure mats have small plastic spikes or acupressure points that stimulate specific areas of the body during your practice. They can help improve circulation, reduce stress, and alleviate tension in the muscles.

In conclusion, choosing the right yoga mat can significantly impact your practice. Consider your individual needs and preferences, such as your preferred yoga style, height, and level of experience, to find the perfect yoga mat that suits your needs.

Want more information on Purple Yoga Mat? Feel free to contact us.