The yoga mat is one of the most important tools we use, but most of the time we don’t question or research deeply into what are the materials that the mats could be made of. This can impact us and the environment as well. Here are some of the reasons to consider an eco-friendly mat:
EFFECTS OF PVC
If you haven’t heard of PVC, this is Polyvinyl Chloride. Basically is a material that most cheap yoga mats are made of because it is low cost and long-lasting. We could ask what is the problem with this material when there are a lot of mats made out of this, used even by yogis and students. There are many in fact.
PVC has a whole life cycle, which can affect our health and certainly, the environment. It goes from the factory to landfill, and PVC is a toxic pollutant. Meaning that is nearly impossible to recycle when at the same time it emits known human carcinogens and other toxins when made. Even if PVC is incinerated, it can take hundreds of years for PVC to break down. But still, nearly 50% of mats are made with PVC.
Consumers advocate recent testing shows that sometimes companies even brand their mats as eco-friendly, but this is not always the case. Two out of the 10 self-proclaimed eco-friendly mats they tested were made of PVC.
PREGNANCY
These two studies from Harvard have found that exposure to chemicals like phthalates, can increase both the risk of miscarriage and developing gestational diabetes. Phthalate is often used to make plastic more flexible and durable. Prenatal yoga offers many incredible benefits to both baby and mama-to-be, however, the sourcing of the right kind of yoga mat is more than important. Other all-natural material options that you can look for and consider in mats are cork or natural rubber.
OVERALL PRACTICE
Yoga is an essential part of many around the world. And as overwhelming it can seem to find an eco-friendly yoga mat, it is possible. Also, keep in mind the positive impact of the eco-friendly mat on the environment but for your body when practicing. Cheap mats tend to be on the thin side, which can lead to a lot of pain during table positions, kneeling, or lunges.
A quality mat will typically offer a good grip that can keep you from slipping and help you maintain balance. It should also provide enough cushion to prevent your joints from aching. We also know that quality mats tend to be more expensive but they also ward off a lot of injuries and strain.
POST WRITTEN AND SUBMITTED BY:
Cristina Bailey
Outreach Specialist
e. cristina.bailey@consumersadvocate.org
www.consumersadvocate.org