1. Have Mat, Will Yoga
Yoga mats provide cushion and comfort when doing yoga. While many yoga classes furnish or rent yoga mats, it's a good idea to have your own. You'll want one that rolls up easily and that you can tuck under your arm or slip into a tote bag. Your mat needs to grip the floor so you don't slide off. If your mat slides, purchase a towel cover or toss it in the washer to help it "wear" so it will grip the floor better.
2. All Mats Are Not Created the Same
A standard yoga mat is 68 by 24 inches and about 1/8 inch thick. There are larger and thicker mats, and you may need one if you move around during yoga. Yoga mats are made of a variety of materials, so it's just a matter of personal preference. Most mats are made of synthetic rubbery foam. Some are made of PVC that contains vinyl chloride, which is not biodegradable. Both are affordable at around $25. The natural materials of jute and other rubbers are more environmentally friendly and can cost $50 and up.
3. A Clean Mat is a Happy Mat
Yoga mats get dirty and grimy. They're placed on floors and we walk all over them, so they need to be cleaned. Use a mat cleanser to keep your mat fresh and sanitized. Make your own spray with mixing 20 to 30 drops of tea tree oil in a spray bottle filled with water. Just shake and spray. The tea tree oil is naturally antibacterial and antiviral. Go the easy route and toss your mat into the washer in cold water on a gentle cycle and lay out to dry. You can also soak your mat in the bathtub, scrub with a soft brush, rinse and air dry. However you do it, just keep it clean.
4. Don't Forget About Your Yoga Mat
Use your mat in your Pilates or body-sculpting class. It's great to have your own mat rather than one that's been over-used. Use your mat at home to do floor exercises like sit-ups or push-ups. Your yoga mat adds the right amount of cushion to make these exercises tolerable.
5. Color Is In the Eye of the Yogi
Your mat color can be very personal. If you enjoy morning yoga and greeting the day, choose a mat in a "sunshine" yellow, orange or a "zen" red to do your "Sun Salutations." Using yoga to relax for the evening may prompt you to want a midnight blue, deep purple or eggplant color. The color can be an extension of how you feel when you do yoga, so pick your color or several mats in different colors to enjoy all the colors of the rainbow as you practice yoga.
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