Yoga | Yoga A Perfect Activity For The Eco-minded
on September 2nd, 2010 at 12:55 amWith its principles of healthy, balanced living and an awareness of our body’s connection to the elements, yoga is a natural fit with sustainability. The discipline of yoga is based in a centuries-old Sanskrit tradition that includes principles like “ahimsa,” or “doing no harm.”
As a form of exercise, yoga can improve strength and flexibility and help manage stress. If you’re interested in trying
yoga, look for a basic class at your gym or local community center, or ask around for yoga studio recommendations. It’s easy to practice at home once you learn the basics.
And yoga does require a few basics. Consider investing in a mat and other items that reflect the practice’s Earth-friendly ethos.
Mind your mat
A successful yoga pose depends in part on a mat that’s “grippy” enough to keep you from slipping around. It should provide some cushioning, but not so much that you lack stability.
Some people prefer rough-textured mats for added traction, while others find smooth mats more comfortable.
Traditional yoga mats are made from PVC, or vinyl, because of its stickiness. This hard plastic contains chemicals called phthalates that increase its flexibility but have also been linked to health problems ranging from reproductive issues to cancer.
Today, most manufacturers are eager to tout their product as eco-friendly, and the range of adjectives and product claims can be overwhelming.
Avoiding PVC mats is probably the most important part of selecting a sustainable yoga mat. After that, your options include phthalate-free plastic mats, recycled or sustainably harvested rubber, and fibers like
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