Yougalu’s mantra
Karma & Eco-Friendly Yoga Mats
Beyond the moving aspect of yoga, called asana in the yoga tradition, there is another attribute of the philosophy that deserves attention: the idea of karma. This is an ancient principle that originates in the Hinduism and Buddhism traditions. It reflects the action of an individual. Karma comes from the Sanskrit word "kamma" meaning "intentional action." Another word, that is is often neglected from the full meaning of kamma is "vipaka" which means "result from the action." Yogis and non-yogis alike are more familiar with the term karma that captures that full meaning. It teaches us that our actions have consequences.
We can relate this yogic ideology to the environmental climate. The world is undergoing significant climate change and the future outcome does not look pleasant. Over time, changes in the atmosphere has resulted in shifts in the earth's natural eco-systems. This is due to the burning of fossil fuels, livestock emissions, industrial production, and more. These and many other factors have contributed to atmospheric changes that affect life on this planet. If these actions continue, the world can face devastating after-effects.
A common and most noticeable shift is in our weather. Summer months, for example, are growing hotter causing individuals to make adjustments in what they might wear outside, what they may do outdoors, and even change the way farming is approached. Much can be said and studied related to climate change and it is worth taking the time to educate yourself about the causes and effects of climate change. The average person, though, would like to do something in order to address these serious issues. This is where karma comes into play.
As yogis, we can play a significant role in managing climate change by doing something quite simple. The intentional act of using an ecologically-friendly yoga mat, can make a world of difference when it comes to taking care of this fragile planet.
The standard yoga mat is constructed with chemicals like chlorine gas and mercury which can be toxic to you and the environment. Unfortunately, these are not long-lasting mats. When disposed, they cause a further threat to the environment because they do not decompose like other natural substances. Many common yoga mats are made of PVC or polyvinyl chloride which is used to produce many forms of plastic. This is a highly popular form of polymer because it can be made into a rigid or flexible object, like a yoga mat. You'll also see this material in the construction of shower curtains, computer cables, plumbing pipes, and more. Because these products are not biodegradable, you may want to find something that is more eco-friendly.
An alternative to the PVC-made yoga mat are ones made from cotton, hemp, or cork. The cotton yoga mat (more commonly called the yoga rug) is a highly functional piece and is truly eco-friendly. Often made with 100% cotton, these yoga mats are absorbent for those sweaty yoga sessions and offer non-slip properties for better grip while practicing. They are free of PVC and other synthetic materials, too. The woven material offers a soft surface for yoga postures that require you to be on your hands and knees. Further, they roll up easily for convenient transport and storage. They last a long time and can be washed and cleaned by hand with cold water.
Hemp or jute is another non-toxic material that is used in eco-friendly yoga mats. Jute is a natural fiber and is produced from a vegetable plant that is a sustainable resource. In it's plant-form, the leaves actually consume carbon dioxide in the environment and their leaves condition the soil. Some of these mats, however, do include a product called PER (polymer environmental-friendly resin) which is a synthetic material. What makes it different from PVC, though, is that it does not emit toxins and carcinogens when these mats are manufactured. These yoga mats are durable for long-tern use. They are antimicrobialwhich means that they do not hold harmful bacteria and are very easy to clean. An important feature of these yoga mats is that they can be repeatedly recycled due to the nature of this type of material.
A popular eco-friendly yoga mat today is the cork mat. Not only are these mats stylish and customizable for your personal taste, but they are made from all natural materials. They are perfect for any style of yoga: meditation, hot yoga, and other forms because of their unique highly functional surface. A typical mat is made with 2mm of cork and 4mm of recycled rubber. The top cork surface is non-slip. In fact, the moisture that is often produced during a yoga practice only makes the mat more sticky. The rubber surface creates a firm grip to the floor so it makes for a non-distracting yoga practice. Further, these are dense yoga mats, so you will feel very supported while you move (or sit) during your yoga class.
Cork mats are naturally antimicrobial, too. They do not hold odors and they are easy to keep clean. Gentle soaps and warm water are effective when taking care of these wonderful mats. They are biodegradable which means they will decompose more efficiently than their other synthetic counterparts.
So, when it comes to practicing yoga, you can practice good karma by making the intentional choice of purchasing an eco-friendly yoga mat. Not only will you be doing yourself a service with a great, long-lasting, naturally-made mat, but you will be helping the environment. Part of being a consciously aware yogi is to value the importance of the environment. Sustaining ourselves also means taking care of our natural surroundings. Yoga teaches us about the subtleties of being more in-tuned and mindful. Sometimes, it is the simplest practices that produces the broadest of effects. Buying an ecologically-friendly yoga may can be that simple step as a yogi. You will be practicing the true sense of the Sanskrit words "kamma" and "vipaka;" an intentional action with a positive result of that action. In this case, you will be contributing to the reduction of climate change.
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