Wellness Apothecary

The "best" thickness for a yoga mat depends on your personal preferences and yoga style. Here's a breakdown to help you decide:

Thinner Mats (3-4mm):

Pros: Offer more stability and better grip, ideal for dynamic styles like Vinyasa or Ashtanga where you'll be moving quickly.   

Cons: May not provide enough cushioning for those with sensitive joints or practicing more static styles like Yin Yoga.

Thicker Mats (6-8mm):

Pros: Provide more cushioning and comfort, great for those with sensitive joints or practicing restorative yoga.   

Cons: Can be less stable for dynamic styles, and may be bulkier to carry.

Consider these factors:

Your Yoga Style: If you practice dynamic styles like Vinyasa or Ashtanga, a thinner mat may be preferable. For more restorative styles like Yin Yoga, a thicker mat will provide more comfort.   

Your Body: If you have sensitive joints or practice on hard surfaces, a thicker mat will offer more cushioning and support.

Portability: Thinner mats are generally easier to transport.

Ultimately, the best way to choose is to try out different thicknesses and see what feels most comfortable for you. Some yoga studios may allow you to try out different mats before purchasing.

The "best" yoga mat truly depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here's a breakdown of key factors to consider:

Material:

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Most common, affordable, good grip, durable, but may not be eco-friendly.

TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer): Eco-friendly alternative to PVC, excellent grip and durability.

Natural Rubber: Eco-friendly, good grip and cushioning, may be slippery when wet.

Cork: Sustainable, good grip, easy to clean, but may be less durable.

Cotton/Jute: Natural fibers, good for sensitive skin, but less durable and may require more maintenance.

Thickness:

Thinner (3-4mm): More stability, better for dynamic styles (Vinyasa, Ashtanga), less cushioning.

Thicker (6-8mm): More cushioning, better for sensitive joints or restorative styles, less stable for dynamic styles.

Grip: Look for textured surfaces or sticky materials for good grip.

Size: Standard is 68 inches long and 24 inches wide, ensure it accommodates your height and width.

Additional Features: Carrying straps, alignment lines, eco-friendly materials, colours and patterns.

Try Before You Buy: Visit a studio or store to test different mats. Consider your budget, yoga style, and personal preferences.

Ultimately, the best yoga mat is the one that feels right for you and supports your practice.

The correct spelling is yoga mat.

While "matt" is a valid word, it generally refers to a doormat or a piece of floor covering. "Mat" is the more common and accepted spelling when referring to a mat used for yoga practice.

Hosing down a yoga mat is generally not recommended.

• Material Damage: Most yoga mats are not designed to withstand the pressure of a hose. This can damage the material, causing cracks, tears, or even delamination.
• Grip Issues: The high water pressure can strip away the mat's grip, making it slippery and unsafe for practice.
• Color Fading: The intense water pressure can also fade the color of your mat, especially if it's a printed or patterned design.

Better Cleaning Methods:

• Spot Cleaning: For minor spills or sweat, use a damp cloth with a mild soap solution.
• Surface Cleaning: For a deeper clean, you can use a mat spray or a solution of water and a small amount of mild soap. Wipe down the mat thoroughly and allow it to air dry completely.
• Machine Washing: Some yoga mats are machine washable, but it's crucial to check the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

Remember: Always refer to the care instructions provided with your specific yoga mat for the most accurate cleaning recommendations.

There are a few reasons why you might want to use a towel over your yoga mat:

Increased Grip and Traction: Sweat can make your hands and feet slippery on the mat, increasing the risk of slipping during poses. A towel can absorb sweat and provide extra grip, improving stability and safety.

Hygiene: Towels can help keep your mat clean and hygienic. They absorb sweat and prevent the buildup of bacteria and germs on the mat itself.

Added Cushioning: Some yoga towels are designed to provide extra cushioning and comfort, especially if your mat is thinner or you're practicing on a hard surface.

Protection: A towel can protect your mat from wear and tear, especially if you're practicing in a gritty environment or tend to drag your hands and feet across the mat.

Types of Yoga Towels:

Microfiber Towels: These are lightweight, absorbent, and often come with built-in grip.

Cotton Towels: Traditional towels can also be used, but they may not be as absorbent or provide as much grip as microfiber towels.

If you decide to use a towel, make sure it's the right size and that it doesn't bunch up or shift during your practice.

Always check the manufacturer's instructions on your yoga mat to ensure it's safe to use a towel on it. Some mats may have specific cleaning or care instructions that prohibit the use of towels.