Why buy a quality yoga mat|Down Dog This

A Quality Yoga Mat Will Determine The Quality of Your Practice

We put a hefty amount of pressure on our joints throughout our lives, and our yoga practice is no different. Whether our poses are as intricate as plow or as simple as forward fold, and no matter the intensity of the pose, our body’s joints are impacted in ways that we often can’t feel until an injury occurs. Especially in our knees, wrists and ankles and toes. Really, then, the quality of your yoga mat is going to determine the quality of practice and the health benefits we are meant to receive from it.

Having said that, if you’re feeling off balance, or have aches or pains from your mat or after practice, I strongly suggest you consider investing in a new one.

 Signs You Need A New Mat

There are some obvious, key signs you can identify if your mat is too worn for use. One is an uneven mat thickness on the areas you most stand on – usually the center or very front of your mat. Another might be dents or holes made from your feet and elbows in frequently done focused density poses, like plow. And although mat thickness is a personal preference, if you find yourself having to lay down two mats to support your knees, it may be a good choice to find a new mat that has this extra thickness on its own. This prevents any slipping and sliding of the two mats that would disturb or impair your practice.

Budget Friendly Mats

Investing in a new mat can only improve your well-being and won’t make a dent in your wallet, which is important to those an a budget. One of our favorite athletic brands, Lululemon, carries mats ranging from $40 to $60 USD. For an even more affordable option, check out Gaiam for a quality $20 mat. And if you’re interested in making a green footprint, pay a visit to Jade, a leading eco-friendly yoga mat carrier.

There are so many styles, brands and colors that you can find at these online or in-store retailers to fit your taste. I personally prefer shopping for a yoga mat in a yoga studio or boutique because it gives me the option of testing mat thickness and my comfort level on it beforehand.

Support Your Joints During Your Yoga Practice

For just a few dollars invested in a mat that can last you for years, you will be taking great precautions for your health and safety and enhance confidence in your practice. For one, you will protect your health by ensuring your mat supports your joints. You’ll also have an easier time balancing if the thickness of your mat is even on all sides. And what’s more, investing in a new mat every couple of years will help you stay on top of the latest design and support features of trending yoga brands.

As is the core of all yoga, take care of yourself in whatever you pursue. You’ll find a far greater level of happiness, comfort and compassion for yourself when you respond to what really makes you feel good.

From my mat to yours,