Yoga has been practiced in India since ancient times so the trend of yoga mats is not recent. In old times, sages or yogis used animal skins for their Sadhana or Yoga practice. The saints used to sit on the skin of a dead deer or lion for meditation. These natural animal skin rugs supported them with ample cushioning for their meditation and postures. These natural rugs evolved into hand-woven Cotton yoga mats with time.
In 1980, yoga mats appeared for the first time to provide better grip and performance. After this, these rugs started coming in different materials that include polyvinyl chloride to synthetic rubber. But these materials are not beneficial to the human body as well as to the surroundings. Here, you will find the benefits of organic handloom cotton yoga mats that are the best substitute for PVC Yoga mats.
Scientific Reason Behind Using Yoga Mat
Yoga mats help yogis to meditate and perform various yoga postures. It gives you stability, better hold, injury prevention, and comfortable connectivity. If you do not have proper cushioning during your yoga hours, you cannot concentrate or stay in one posture for longer. Hard floors can cause discomfort to your spine and other parts of your body.
In addition, you need a padding layer to break the direct contact between your body and the earth. When you sit, it creates a direct connection between your genitals and the ground. It directs the energy of your body towards your genitals and arouses your sexual desire. But if you break this connection with a layer, then all your energy will flow towards your brain. It will activate your Ajna chakra and Sahasrara chakra. Your body needs insulation to avoid energy leakage to the earth. A yoga mat helps for a better yoga experience in different ways which will be discussed further.
What is Cotton Handloom Mat
The handloom yoga runner is a creation of local Indian artisans and weavers using cotton thread. Natural and organic fiber has been used for weaving cotton fabric. No harmful chemicals are involved in the handcrafted cotton Yoga mat that is the reason why it is secure to achieve total fitness. Other yoga mats made of plastic polymer or synthetic rubber can show many harmful effects on your skin and other body parts. These non-polluting mats are not only useful for you but also for Mother Nature.
A PVC or polyvinyl chloride plastic is not biodegradable because it takes about 100 years to decompose. But cotton is recyclable or decomposable and takes only five months to disintegrate. It is beneficial to the ecosystem, environment, and agricultural land. Furthermore, it is also helpful to introduce hidden artistic talents in India and also helps these weavers to generate income.
Why you should Use Cotton Yoga Mats
Nowadays, everyone wants to switch from wrong choices to healthy choices in terms of Diet, Lifestyle, Exercise tools, and Kitchenwares. Handloom yoga mats are one of those choices that people are considering. People know the harm and health-damaging results of using PVC and synthetic rubber rugs. PVC yoga mats were in the spotlight because they are cheap and durable, but nowadays people are saying bye to them. Nowadays, cotton yoga mats have been drawing attention because they are recyclable, chemical additive-free, innocuous, washable, antibacterial, odor-free, and favorable for skin.
10 Amazing Benefits of Organic Woven Cotton Mat
Cotton Yoga Mats are in demand because of the benefits they hold. You need to explore these benefits for making the right choice in your next purchase. These benefits include:
No Toxin and Chemicals
Organic cotton has grown without pesticides, herbicides, and genetically modified seeds. During its manufacturing from the fiber does not include any poisonous substances. Synthetic plastic polymer (PVC) or rubber is harmful because of the carcinogens they produce. Organic Cotton Yoga rugs are acceptable because there is no vicious chemical present in them.
Absorbent and Hygienic
The cotton organic rug is an absorbent of perspiration due to proper air circulation. While doing different yoga poses sweat comes out from your body, and this makes you feel uncomfortable. But this natural fiber can soak moisture, and it also helps in easy evaporation. Cotton yoga mats can maintain hygiene as you can wash them easily as compared to other materials.
Mold and Microbes Resistant
A yoga mat is an ideal surface for bacteria and germs to thrive. According to scientific studies, a yoga Dari or mat contains eight times more viruses or germs than your toilet pot. In Ayurvedic cotton rugs, there is the use of certain herbal dyes that include Harda and Turmeric (Haldi) dyes, which have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
No Asthma and Allergic Reaction
Organic handloom mats do not contain chemical dyes or bleach, it is made up of dyes like Harda, Turmeric, etc. That is why they do not cause any allergies. Some harmful chemicals in synthetic plastic polymer mats include Lead, Phthalates, Chlorine and nitrosamine can cause allergic reactions. During yoga, friction with the surface of the PVC rug can cause an allergic reaction due to the release of harmful chemicals from the mat. The excretion of phthalates can cause asthma and many serious health problems. An allergic reaction can cause cramping, itching, and trouble breathing.
Good for Skin
During your yoga session, your body or skin comes into contact with the surface of a yoga mat. Organic cotton yoga dhurrie infused with Ayurvedic herbs like turmeric has positive effects on your epidermis. And, whereas the synthetic rubber and plastic polymer yoga mats may cause bacterial infection on your epidermis.
Multi-Purpose
These multi-purpose yoga mats serve you in different ways. Their ethnic and authentic look makes them aesthetically beautiful. You can lay them in anywhere in your home to make that corner lively.
Peculiar Odour
The perchloroethylene mats (PVC) have a peculiar smell or odor. This smell is due to the presence of plasticizers. A softener is used to make brittle PVC flexible and soft. But in an organic cotton yoga mat, there is no use of softener during their processing.
Comparison between Different Yoga Mats
Nowadays there are many options of yoga mats available in the market that includes Synthetic plastic polymer, Synthetic Rubber, and handcrafted yoga mats.
PVC or Poly Vinyl Chloride
All the mats made up of synthetic polymers are low-priced and provide you with proper support while exercising. It has a good hold on the ground, and also it is durable. But it is environmentally unfriendly and has a different smell. PVC is brittle, and the addition of phthalates makes it bendable. Nitrosamines are also present in PVC mats that act as a carcinogen. They take many years to decompose.
Synthetic and Natural Rubber
It is insalubrious to your health. Recycled tires have carbon black, and yoga rugs made from them are harmful. They are inexpensive, but you should avoid them because of the presence of carbon black. It is noxious and destructive to your health. Natural rubber is good enough for your well-being, and also you can have a relaxing experience with this.
Cotton Mats
Local Indian artisan weave cotton fibers to make cotton yoga rugs. These rugs can degrade easily. It absorbs sweat, is breathable, and is comfortable to use. It also does not harm Mother Nature. When you perform high-level yoga, sweat makes you feel uneasy. But cotton cloth is porous in nature and allows proper air circulation.
List of 9 Best Organic Cotton Yoga Mat for Daily Use
1. Yoga Land Cotton Mats
For centuries, people in India have been using cotton mats for their yoga rituals. The yoga land Mat is 100% organic cotton which is the reason it is good for your health and nature. These mats protect you from injuries due to the rubber base. This gives the mat an excellent hold on the ground. They are hygienic as you can easily wash them without any hassle. Many yoga mats are weighty and can be problematic during washing. They are lightweight you can roll them up and take them with you wherever you go. You will get a chemical-free experience as these mats do not contain synthetic plastic polymer (PVC), cadmium, allergens, nitrosamine impurities, and phthalates. This yoga dhurrie does not lead to any chemical reaction when it contacts your sweaty body.
2. ARKA 4 U Cotton Yoga Mats
The bright design and color of the Arka mats are appealing and charming. Indian weavers make this eco-friendly mat from organic cotton fibers. It is suitable for both outside and inside yoga practice. Arka mats give you support and stability because of their protective bottom. These are portable because you can carry them easily. They do not contain hazardous chemicals like synthetic plastic and rubber mats. That is why they cannot cause any health problems. They are easy to wash, and there are many options available to you. Investing in a handcrafted rug can bring lifelong benefits.
3. Nishchala Yoga Mat
Natural herbs are helpful to treat many diseases or ailments. Nishchala Yoga Mat has a cotton weave with Ayurvedic herbs used in it. You get the desired comfort, support, balance, and grip while performing your yoga postures on this mat. Its natural rubber base will give you an antiskid effect. They have traction lines to support your body to avoid injuries. They are PVC, Phthalates, and Dioxin free. All these are harmful to your health. You can carry them with ease as they are portable, rollable, handy, and commute-friendly. This yoga mat is skin-friendly because of natural herbs like turmeric, Triphala, and tulsi dye. All of these have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that ward off mold and bacteria from the surface. These prevent skin sensitivity when it comes in contact with the surface of the yoga mat.
4. Saral Cotton Handloom Made Yoga
Saral Cotton Homemade Yoga Mat is one of the best options that you can buy. If you looking for a non-damaging and health-friendly mat, you can buy it. These multifunctional mats are good for morning rituals or as a runner to give a unique look to your home. It is comfortable and provides ample cushioning to your back and body while performing sleeping poses. It also protects you from injury as it has an anti-slippery bottom. It is healthy as it does not use toxins, chemicals, and damaging plastic.
5. Nettie Cotton Mat
Synthetic plastic polymer or petroleum-based yoga mats are detrimental to your health. Plasticizers such as Phthalates help to increase the elasticity and plasticity of PVC. This softening agent can create lots of health troubles. Nettie Cotton Yoga Mat does not show any vicious effect on your skin and body as it does not contain any toxic substances. These cotton mats come in two sizes that include standard and large sizes. So, it is perfect for people of all sizes. It does not stink after using it for some time as it is washable. Its breathable material helps for absorbing sweat. It does not let you slip off the mat after vigorous exercise as it is anti-slippery. Its smooth surface makes it suitable or worthy for your skin and causes no skin problems.
6. Swayam Yoga Mat
Yoga mats are changeable or reversible rugs, and you can use them from both sides. If you invest in this product, it gives you double profit. Pure cotton fabric gives your comfort and a relaxing feel while you nap or pose. Its attractive design attracts or inspires you to do yoga every morning. It is best for your intermediate-level yoga asana.
7. Pasricha Yoga Mat
Organic cotton makes these mats skin and health-friendly. They are weightless and easy to carry. With this mat, you receive a free strap that makes it easy to carry from one place to another. It has no dioxins, phthalates, and other allergens, which is why you face no health complications. Its comfortable base makes it the ultimate yoga mat and helps you enjoy your yoga practice properly. It is perfect for physical poses in sun exposure. It is the best investment for your well-being and nature.
8. Flamingo Organic Mat
These sturdy organic handcrafted mats are healthy and non-polluting. Unlike damaging plastic yoga mats, these mats do not take years to degrade. They can disintegrate and decompose within a few months. It is highly absorbent, and that is why it is perfect for heavy poses. All the colors or dyes used in it are AZO-free. It means that no bleach and nitrogen take part in its processing. The chemical-rich dyes can harm your skin. It has a rubber bottom that avoids the sliding of a mat while doing yoga.
9. Ishalife Cotton Yoga Mat
Yoga supports you in discovering your capacity, power, and potential when you perform it in the right way. A good quality yoga mat for yogis motivates them to enjoy their every asana, posture, and meditation. The breathability of your yoga mat helps you to relish every stretch during your yoga rituals. Ishalife Yoga Mats are pure cotton mats. Pesticides, chemicals, and plasticizers are not part of its making. Its comfortable surface gives a soothing experience during your sadhana. Rubber bottom maintains your grip while performing standing poses. Its attractive looks help you feel motivated towards your practice.
Bonus Tip
You people have been using plastic polymers or synthetic material because it doesn’t slip. When you switch to handcrafted natural rugs, it will take time to adjust to them. If you feel a balance problem with your brand new organic cotton rug, you can sprinkle some water on it. In yoga postures, your hands and feet play an important role because they help balance your body. You need to sprinkle some water where you going to place your palm and toes. Not all rugs need to be wet while performing asana. Spraying water helps to avoid the greasiness of the surface. It helps to have a proper hold or balance while balancing your body with the help of your palm and feet.
Conclusion
Yog Sadhna should be an integral part of your daily routine to enjoy every bit of it. For the better performance of yoga, you need proper support. A good quality Yoga Mat makes you feel relaxed and light during your yoga hours. You should go for environmental-safe options to make both your body and surroundings healthy at the same time. I hope the information in this article will help you in making the right choice.
Shine Always!