It's yoga month on MyZen TV ! And when you say yoga, you say yoga mat! Here are 5 tips for choosing the best mat for your daily exercise!

Which characteristics to take into account?

In general, the thickness of a classic yoga mat is 6mm. Below 4,5 mm, it will be complicated to work on the body's joints without the risk of hurting yourself. On the other hand, above 10 mm, the lack of adherence with the ground may cause a fall that can hurt you. For travelers, there are now travel mats: 2.8 mm, very thin and easy to carry! It is true that it is much more pleasant to do yoga in front of the blue sea than in a Parisian apartment!

Is a slip-resistant mat the answer?

The question that most yogis ask themselves: should my mat be non-slip? The answer is not necessarily yes or no! In fact, the choice of mat should be influenced by the type of yoga you practice. There are 7 most common types of yoga. If you choose a dynamic yoga, such as Vinyasa, Ashtanga or Hatna yoga, it is obvious that you will sweat. You will understand that a more "sporty" yoga will be more likely to make you slip. In this case, choose a non-slip mat. However, if you are just starting yoga or even if you are an expert in "soft" yoga practices, a smooth mat will be more than enough! In any case, avoid the first prices, dangerous for your body. But that's the next question!

How much to invest in a good quality carpet?

The price is always the most important question. Let's just say that if you have specific criteria, such as a carpet made of natural materials and easily transportable, it may be a fairly substantial investment. As with everything, quality comes at a price. That said, if you only practice from time to time, there is no need to invest an amount that is much too expensive for your use. Between 20 and 50€, you will find your happiness with classic but qualitative mats!

Which components for my carpet?

The "basic" yoga mats are most often made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Nowadays, the environmental issue being more and more taken into account by the companies, the brands come to develop eco-friendly mats! For example, you can find carpets made of cork, hemp, organic cotton or natural rubber. You are free to choose!

How to maintain it?

Very few people know it, but the yoga mats are machine washable! Be careful not to exceed 40°. If you are not confident, there is a very simple and natural way to clean it: use a homemade disinfectant spray! Because yes, yoga is a philosophy of life that also includes a respect for nature. To compose this product, mix white vinegar, essential oil of tea tree, eucalyptus and lavender, and recover your mat like new, with less bad smells! And yes, yoga may well make you sweat!

Find the month of yoga on MyZen in June, and all the shows on our streaming platform!