My 7 Favorite Yoga Accessories
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One thing I love about yoga is that you don’t need to make any large purchases to get started. Basically, a mat is the main “essential” item when it comes to your home practice. However, there are several accessories that make for a more enjoyable experience. And the more you enjoy your experience, the more likely you’ll be to return to your mat. Here are my 7 favorite yoga accessories.
1. Yoga Mat
If you are only going to buy one thing, buy a yoga mat. Yoga mats protect your joints, your floor, and help you stay balanced during difficult poses. Practicing on a rug or something similar can lead to injury and frustration. Plus, when you find yourself inevitably distracted during a practice (cuz you’re human), your mat can remind you to refocus on your body and breath.
Mat prices vary, and at the high end they range anywhere from $80-$150. The pricier the mat, the longer it will last. Typically, the more expensive the mat, the better the materials used are. They tend to last longer, be more eco-friendly, and have better grip. Manduka's PRO series mats are built to last a lifetime and come in several colors.
On the more affordable hand, Gaiam Yoga Mats come in beautiful designs and save money.
2. Yoga Bag
Carrying my mat, towel, keys, phone, hand sanitizer, etc., into a group class can be a bit much. Luckily, there are adorable yoga bags to remedy this. My sister bought me this cute Ewedoos Yoga Mat Bag and it easily holds my mat as well as everything else I need.
3. Mat Towel
Hot yoga ain’t for the light-hearted. If you find yourself burning calories in a hot yoga class, you know how important a mat towel is for the sweat situation. Mat towels absorb your sweat and still allow you to do poses without slipping. Shandali GoSweat mat towels are highly rated, affordable, and come in multiple colors.
4. Yoga Block(s)
Photo by Samantha Sheppard on Unsplash
While yoga blocks aren’t required, they offer some great benefits as you dive deeper into your practice. Blocks can bring the ground closer, release tension by getting deeper into poses, avoid injury, and build confidence. Whether you decide on a foam or cork block is entirely your preference. The material should be firm, but comfortable.
I have the Gaiam Essentials Yoga Blocks and they are cute, comfortable, and $11 for a set of 2.
5. An Incense Burner or Candle
A room that smells good is incredibly inviting. While practicing at home, I like to go all-out with my self-care. I’ll turn down the lights, light a candle, and really go inward. Bath & Body Works has all my favs, and when there’s a sale going on, you know where to find me. But, Amazon carries cute candles, too. This gift set comes with 4 candles, and the containers are beautiful.
If you are more of an incense person, this Zvaiuk New Moon Backflow Incense Holder is gorgeous and mesmerizing to watch.
6. Mat Cleaner
Cleaning your yoga mat removes the buildup of dirt, sweat, and bacteria, which in turn keeps your mat grippy and extends its life. You’ll want to give it a quick wipe down after every practice, as well as give it a deep clean every month or so.
You can make a do-it-yourself cleaner. This is what I do at home.
You need the following:
vinegar
water
your favorite essential oil, popular choices include
Mix the vinegar and water at a 1-to-4 ratio in your spray bottle (1 cup of vinegar for every 4 cups of water)
Start by adding 2 to 4 drops of essential oil, adding more or less as you see fit. Cap your spray bottle, shake it up, and give your mat a spray down. Don’t be shy with the spray now.
Use a clean towel to wipe it off in a circular motion.
Let it dry for a minute, flip it and reverse it. Repeat steps 2 & 3.
Allow your mat to dry unfurled.
If you’re actively thinking, ain’t nobody got time for a DIY yoga mat cleaner, here’s a plant-based Yoga Mat Cleaner infused with essential oils. Buying bulk saves money, but you’ll still need a spray bottle if you buy the bigger option.
7. Yoga Mat Wall Mount
Do you roll up your yoga mat and put it away in a cabinet like I did for years? Not anymore! Check out this amazing yoga mat holder wall mount. Hang this up in your designated yoga spot and flaunt your new, organized self-care accessories!
Conclusion
If you are just getting started on your journey, start with the mat. If you’ve been practicing a while and realize this is a life-long relationship, why not treat yourself? Purchase a mat, designate a “yoga spot,” light a candle, and dive inward. You won’t regret it.
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