Why Choose an Eco-Friendly Yoga Mat?

Choosing an eco-friendly yoga mat is essential for both your health and the environment. Traditional yoga mats can contain harmful chemicals and materials that may not only affect your practice but also contribute to environmental pollution. Eco-friendly mats are made from sustainable materials that are safe for both you and the planet.

Benefits of Using Eco-Friendly Yoga Mats

• Non-Toxic Materials: Many eco-friendly mats are made from materials like natural rubber, jute, or organic cotton, ensuring they are free from harmful chemicals.
• Durability: Eco-friendly mats often have a longer lifespan, which means less waste and more value for your money.
• Better Grip: Many eco-friendly mats provide excellent traction, helping you maintain stability during your practice.
• Biodegradable: Once they reach the end of their life cycle, eco-friendly mats can break down naturally, reducing landfill waste.

Top Eco Friendly Yoga Mats of 2018

Yoga Mat	Material	Thickness	Price	Eco-Friendly Certification
Liforme Yoga Mat	Natural Rubber	4.0 mm	$139	GreenGuard Gold
Manduka PRO Yoga Mat	PVC (non-toxic)	6.0 mm	$120	OEKO-TEX
Jade Yoga Mat	Natural Rubber	5.0 mm	$79	Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)
Gaiam Cork Yoga Mat	Jute & Natural Rubber	5.0 mm	$69	EcoCert
prAna E.C.O Yoga Mat	Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE)	5.5 mm	$59	OEKO-TEX

Features to Look for in Eco-Friendly Yoga Mats

When selecting an eco-friendly yoga mat, consider the following features:

1. Material

Look for mats made from sustainable materials such as natural rubber, jute, or organic cotton. Avoid PVC mats as they can be harmful to the environment and your health.

2. Thickness

The right thickness can enhance your comfort and stability. Generally, mats range from 3mm to 6mm thick. Choose based on your comfort preferences and the type of yoga you practice.

3. Texture

A textured surface provides better grip and stability during poses. This is particularly important for practices that involve a lot of movement, such as Vinyasa or Ashtanga.

4. Weight

If you travel frequently, consider the weight of the mat. Lightweight mats are easier to carry but may sacrifice some durability.

Practical Tips for Maintaining Your Eco-Friendly Yoga Mat

• Clean Regularly: Wipe down your mat after each use with a damp cloth and mild soap to prevent buildup of sweat and bacteria.
• Air Dry: Allow your mat to air dry completely before rolling it up to prevent mold and odors.
• Store Properly: Store your mat in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prolong its life.

Case Studies: User Experiences with Eco-Friendly Yoga Mats

Liforme Yoga Mat

A yoga instructor shared her experience with the Liforme mat, praising its grip and comfort during her classes. She noted that the alignment guide printed on the mat helped her and her students maintain proper form.

Jade Yoga Mat

A beginner yogi reported that switching to a Jade yoga mat significantly improved her practice. She appreciated the natural rubber's eco-friendliness and noted how it provided better traction than her previous PVC mat.

First-Hand Experience: My Journey with Eco-Friendly Mats

As someone who has practiced yoga for over a decade, transitioning to an eco-friendly mat was a game changer. I started with a standard PVC mat, but after learning about the environmental impact, I switched to a natural rubber mat. The improved grip and comfort were immediately noticeable, enhancing my practice and making me feel good about my choice.

Conclusion

Investing in an eco-friendly yoga mat is a step towards a healthier lifestyle and a healthier planet. With so many options available in 2018, you can find a mat that suits your needs while also being kind to the environment.