Yoga is not just about trying out different postures and meditations. Its aim is definitely beyond just being strong, flexible and fit.
Yoga is essentially a strong spiritual pursuit. Its practice helps us to focus on the present, to reflect on our thoughts, and to meditate to manifest the spiritual energy spread around the cosmos.
It is very ironic that, when yoga is all about complying with the laws of nature, many yoga practitioners choose mats that are brightly coloured, and are harmful to the environment and their health.
This article aims to sincerely spread awareness regarding why yoga mats prepared with the natural touch are ideal in pursuing spiritual growth through yogic practices.
For thousands of years, yoga was practised without any kind of mat.
The goal of yoga has always been to unite one’s soul with nature, and ultimately seek liberation.
As we progressed as a civilization and as a society, cloth made of natural materials was used for practice. There was an emphasis on cushioning and stability during the yoga practice.
Here are some of the many benefits that you can avail yourself of by using eco-friendly yoga mats made from natural materials.
Proper Hygiene
There is always a high risk of infection when it comes to the cleanliness of the studio or gym that you frequently visit. The yoga mat you use should provide you assurance of safety and health so that you can perform the practice with devotion and engagement.
If the choice of your yoga mat is of standard one that’s made with natural elements like darbha grass mat, you will avoid unseen bacteria and harmful germs that are commonly associated with such places.
Balance and Alignment
For involved and engaged yoga practice, sustaining the right balance and the right body alignment becomes very necessary.
Choosing a mat with the right grip helps you in accomplishing the difficult postures.
Adequate Cushion
Yoga positions can sometimes turn intricate, difficult and physically challenging. These postures can be sustained if there is enough cushioning to protect the joints from injury.
It becomes vital for you to choose a yoga mat with the right thickness.
The yoga mat also needs to insulate you from unusual temperatures on the floor surface.
Defining Personal Space
A true yoga practitioner views his yoga mat as much more than just a tool.
The mats represent mental and physical spaces where you attempt to seek the ultimate and be your best. They are there to make you aware of the freedom and flexibility you possess. They are there to offer you solace by making you feel relieved and relaxed.
With organic yoga mats, you also feel the touch of nature and its natural creation in your spiritual practice. You will feel connected to the mother earth. Your experience performing yoga will be enhanced.
So your yoga mat should set boundaries. It should define a personal space for you to practice without any interference or distraction.
Positive Trigger
Your yoga mat should always remind you of the positive experience that you get out of the sincere practice. It should remind you of the intention with which you perform the postures and the commitment you have towards your growth.
As we have noticed before the yoga mat serves more than just being a tool. It transforms into being a symbol of your mindful choice of pursuing something beyond materialistic desires.
It should bring in you the serene calmness and the emotions of joy.
Natural Energy Flow
Yoga is essentially about establishing a deep connection with your spiritual self. It involves focus to awaken the source of energy in you. Further with practice, it energises all the vital organs. The energy circulating within your body creates harmony and improves your well-being.
There is a belief that during this manifestation of energy, some part of it descends into the ground. To inhibit that descent of energy natural materials are identified to be apt. They are known to act as insulators to these energies
Social Responsibility
If you consciously choose to go for an eco-friendly yoga mat, then congratulations.
It shows you are concerned about the environment and you are wise enough to be socially responsible.
You will also be contributing to maintaining the balance in nature.
Natural yoga mats are generally hand-woven. They are made beautiful by the local artisans who are exceptionally skilled, yet are not actively encouraged by mainstream industries.
By choosing to buy the natural mats, you will be creating employment for a community and will be helping in preserving the traditional art of weaving.
Always go for eco-friendly hand-woven yoga mats of Indian origin. You will be protecting nature and will be part of the conservation of tradition and heritage.
Practicing yoga with the assistance of natural mats is a choice that impacts your lifestyle and personality. Its essence will bring in you profound changes. You will be taking a significant step in the sustainability of nature. And you will be making the best choice for your well-being as well as the well-being of the environment.