8.21.2014

essentials: yoga


part three in my yoga mini-series. after 8 months of regular use, these are my yoga essentials.

  1. Manduka yoga mat (also here) // somewhat pricey, but worth every penny. this is a durable, well made, and substantial but still portable mat. i looked into getting a rubber mat but didn't want to keep buying replacements every year (rubber wears out much quicker). i initially tried the Pro, but returned it as it was way too heavy. (FYI: when brand new, Manduka mats have a slightly slick coating that takes about a few weeks to break in, but once broken in, the mats are very grippy and incredibly comfortable to practice on.)
  2. sling mat carrier // portable and much easier to use than trying to stuff your mat into a bag after practice. the zip compartment has room for just the important stuff: wallet, keys, phone.
  3. small wicking hand/mat towel // i was dubious about whether i needed this, but after a few practices i found it very useful for wicking/combatting sweaty palms and adding some extra stability/grip to the mat.
  4. Tamal Dodge intro to yoga DVDs // so good – the pacing and instruction is clear and easy to follow. this is an inexpensive, excellent primer on yoga basics, and a great way to keep up a consistent practice on days when you can't make it to a studio class. each DVD has two programs that are about 45-minutes each, ideal for making time for a daily yoga session.
my yoga 'uniform' consists of an Under Armour sports bra, racerback tank (love the longer length – perfect for practice), and black yoga leggings. all of these pieces wear and wash well, and they're versatile enough for general workouts and even non-yoga wear. 

i hope this is helpful if you're getting started with your practice, or looking to replace/upgrade some of your essentials.

do you practice with any of these items? please share your experiences with yoga!

// yoga mini-series part 1 and part 2.

4 comments:

  1. I practiced yoga regularly and have been searching for a thicker and non-slip yoga mat. I came across Tomuno yoga mat from a FAB sale. It's made out of natural rubber, and it's by far my favorite yoga mat. I have used it for almost two years now and it is still in great-working condition. But since it's rubber, the mat is not intended for hot or heated yoga. Maybe I will try the Manduka mat for next. LOVE your blog BTW~and your reviews on Everlane!

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    1. thanks! that's very sweet of you, let me know if you get the Manduka and how you like it. do comment now and then, if you don't do so already!

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  2. is it common to bring your own mats for classes? my studio provides the mats, the very one you're using in fact. Most people do bring a thin mat towel though because it is pretty gross to rest your face on a mat used by god knows how many other people.

    i don't really hunt out exercise clothing - although i do steer clear of materials that aren't breathable and bad fitting bras. Nike seems to fit me best and their stuff lasts - I've been wearing the same two sets of tank tops and leggings for years. generally sportswear just seem indestructible...

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    1. i think a lot of people bring their own mats to studios. i personally am not into the idea of a 'public' mat for hygiene reasons, even with my own towel over it! and for home practice it's just nice to have one go-to that i use all the time.

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