By A yoga mat is a special kind of sticky mat that is used while doing yoga so that the hands and feet do not slip during the practice. Earlier, meditative yoga and hatha yoga were practiced on bare ground or the grass. However, in modern times, yoga mats have become essential as one can practice yoga on any surface (hot or cold), and at any place, be it home or wherever one wants. They prevent the hands and feet from slipping during yoga practice. They provide cushions which can help you sit on a hard surface and give some relief to the knees and toes while practicing yoga on a hard surface.
Types of Yoga Mats
Yoga mats are generally around six feet long with a width of two feet. Their range in thickness varies from lightweight (2 mm), standard (3 mm), and up to 6 mm for either high -performance mats or soft mats for yoga therapy. Some of the best types of yoga mats are as follows:
Basic Sticky Yoga Mats
These are the most common types of yoga mats which can be used by beginners. Their sticky texture prevents one from slipping, which helps in holding the yoga pose for a longer period of time. They can be easily used for practicing yoga at home. The ¼ inch thickness provides a more comfortable cushioning for the body and is less expensive compared to other types of yoga mats.
Natural Rubber Yoga Mats
These are one of the first two types of yoga mats which were introduced in the market for the yogis to practice in nature. This type is made of natural rubber with non-toxic and eco-friendly qualities. Thus, these are biodegradable and recyclable. They prevent slipping and have excellent cushioning and durability, which is perfect for strenuous yoga sessions.
Plastic Elastomer Yoga Mats
These are the modern yoga mats that are environmentally friendly and healthy to use as they do not contain PVC, latex and other toxic materials. They are cheap in comparison to the plastic mats. They provide excellent traction and are slip-resistant. It is easier to clean because it hardly absorbs moisture. Due to all these enhanced features, it is one of the best yoga mats for practitioners who have sensitive health.
Cotton and Hemp Yoga Mats
Cotton yoga mats serve as good cushioning for yoga as they have a soft texture and can absorb sweat easily. They are washable and hygienic but not as long-lasting as the plastic yoga mats. In comparison, the hemp yoga mats last longer, have higher durability and have better water-absorbing quality.
Jute Mats for Yoga
It is one of the most eco-friendly types of yoga mat as jute fibres are biodegradable materials. It is perfect due to its natural breathing quality and has very good durability and stickiness.
Travel Yoga Mat
These are relatively thinner and have non-slipping qualities which can be folded easily so that they can be carried while traveling. These can be easily utilized while traveling but cannot be used daily due to the thinness of the material.
Thus, with the advent of various types of yoga mats, yoga has become more commercialized, and the exercises can be practiced more comfortably.
