Why You Should Buy Your Own Yoga Mat - Homemade Mat Cleaner Recipe ;)

I think about my yoga mat as a very intimate item. Just like a tooth brush or a towel. But more than that it is also what connects me to my physical and spiritual practice.
Below are some facts about yoga mats and hygiene: (Sorry, some of them are nasty)

1- Yoga is a barefoot practice, so the risk of funguses and athlete’s foot is prominent. Just remember that next time you are facing down in child’s pose. Next time you take child’s pose, know that you are potentially resting in a slew of microbes that can cause skin infections, athlete’s foot, colds and flu, and even hepatitis A.

2- Bacteria can survive for several hours even several days on inanimate surfaces, while viruses can linger for weeks. Lots of yoga studios and gym have questionable mat-cleaning practices. A quick wipe doesn’t really do the job when bacteria colonies have moved inside the mat as opposed to just the surface. Let’s face how many facilities deep wash their mats?  And for those few that do, it would most certainly not be after EVERY class or usage.

3- Yoga mats come in different lengths, width, thickness, textures and materials. If you are taller than average you might get an extra long yoga mat. If you’re going to do faster tempo classes such as Vinyasa or Ashtanga, stickiness getting a good sticky yoga mat with a good grip will make a huge difference. You’ll have the mat that is right for you.

4- Your mat will become your ‘sanctuary’ of private space much like a prayer mat.

Familiarity and connection. Your mat is like your loyal companion on your Yoga journey. 

5- Do Yoga anywhere. You’ve just purchased yourself a portable health and fitness centre.

How to make your own Yoga Mat cleaner:

• 1 cup white vinegar
• 3 cups filtered water
• 1 tsp tea tree oil
• Essential oil (about 10-30 drops depending preference) peppermint, lavender, and thyme are nice, but use anything you like!

1. Place all ingredients into a large spray bottle and shake before each use.

2. Spray down your mat on one side and let it sit for a few minutes. With a damp cloth, wipe it down. Finally, wipe it with a dry towel or simply let it air dry.

3. Repeat on other side.