Are you on the search for the perfect, eco-friendly yoga mat? Years ago, there were only one or two options, but now, almost every mat company seems to be promoting green-friendly mats. So I thought I'd see what's out there. I decided I'd get a new mat for my trip to South Africa--I require a yoga mat on long travels, and need something lightweight and good quality.
I'm partial to Manduka's eco mats, as they are made of natural rubber (no PVC), and the company claims that they are fully biodegradable. Manduka's mats have always had a little extra girth and are much heavier than other mats on the market. But I love practicing on them and if I am at home or going to a local studio, it generally doesn't cause an issue. So I Googled to see if the company sold a travel mat and found the eKo Lite, which, according to Manduka's website, "marries performance and durability with a lightweight, travel-friendly design. The eKO Lite will leave no footprint in landfills, and is perfect for people who want to make a commitment to our planet and take their yoga practice on the road." The eKO Lite Mat is made from sustainably harvested tree rubber. Unlike other rubber mats available today, the foaming agents used to create the eKO Lite are non-toxic. What this means is that no toxic chemicals have gone into the manufacturing process to soften rubber; when the eKO Lite mat is disposed of and biodegrades, it will not leave behind a toxic residue. Additionally, instead of using synthetic polyester for reinforcement, the company has chosen to use recycled silk and natural cotton.
I was excited to find out that the mats cost less than $40 (so I bought 2 off Amazon.com, so I could encourage my boyfriend to practice with me on our travels), and the day before we left, the mats arrived. I will say that they are much lighter than the typical Manduka mats (3.5 lbs instead of the 7 lbs that the Manduka PRO weighs), but are still quite heavy for travel. But if you are not backpacking, they are compact and light enough for checked baggage and I happily stowed it in my suitcase. Upon further investigation, it seems I should have ordered the eKO Superlite Travel Mat, which weighs about 2 lbs and folds to fit easily in small travel spaces.
I arrived in Cape Town and got ready to practice. I unrolled my shiny new mat in the sunshine. It still has the great feel and quality that I've always liked in Manduka's mats. It did seem slightly narrower than a normal mat, which is fine for my 5'4" frame, but may be a bit tight for folks who are larger. The other issue that I've noticed with natural rubber mats is that they can have a really strong odor. Nothing dangerous or toxic (it's not an off-gassing), but a potent rubber smell that can even remain on your hands after a couple of Down Dogs. I thought this new mat actually was pretty good, at least compared to previous rubber mats I've owned. My boyfriend felt otherwise, as he was unaccustomed to such smell. I am willing to put up with it, because I'd rather have the eco-friendly option, but it is good to note if you are looking for a mat to gift to a beginner--it may be slightly off-putting.
So all in all, I give the Manduka eKO Lite a thumbs up for being green and being a good travel companion. As long as you don't mind the extra weight and light rubber aroma, I'd happily recommend.
Are you on the search for the perfect, eco-friendly yoga mat? Years ago, there were only one or two options, but now, almost every mat company seems to be promoting green-friendly mats. So I thought I'd see what's out there. I decided I'd get a new mat for my trip to South Africa--I require a yoga mat on long travels, and need something lightweight and good quality.
I'm partial to Manduka's eco mats, as they are made of natural rubber (no PVC), and the company claims that they are fully biodegradable. Manduka's mats have always had a little extra girth and are much heavier than other mats on the market. But I love practicing on them and if I am at home or going to a local studio, it generally doesn't cause an issue. So I Googled to see if the company sold a travel mat and found the eKo Lite, which, according to Manduka's website, "marries performance and durability with a lightweight, travel-friendly design. The eKO Lite will leave no footprint in landfills, and is perfect for people who want to make a commitment to our planet and take their yoga practice on the road." The eKO Lite Mat is made from sustainably harvested tree rubber. Unlike other rubber mats available today, the foaming agents used to create the eKO Lite are non-toxic. What this means is that no toxic chemicals have gone into the manufacturing process to soften rubber; when the eKO Lite mat is disposed of and biodegrades, it will not leave behind a toxic residue. Additionally, instead of using synthetic polyester for reinforcement, the company has chosen to use recycled silk and natural cotton.
I was excited to find out that the mats cost less than $40 (so I bought 2 off Amazon.com, so I could encourage my boyfriend to practice with me on our travels), and the day before we left, the mats arrived. I will say that they are much lighter than the typical Manduka mats (3.5 lbs instead of the 7 lbs that the Manduka PRO weighs), but are still quite heavy for travel. But if you are not backpacking, they are compact and light enough for checked baggage and I happily stowed it in my suitcase. Upon further investigation, it seems I should have ordered the eKO Superlite Travel Mat, which weighs about 2 lbs and folds to fit easily in small travel spaces.
I arrived in Cape Town and got ready to practice. I unrolled my shiny new mat in the sunshine. It still has the great feel and quality that I've always liked in Manduka's mats. It did seem slightly narrower than a normal mat, which is fine for my 5'4" frame, but may be a bit tight for folks who are larger. The other issue that I've noticed with natural rubber mats is that they can have a really strong odor. Nothing dangerous or toxic (it's not an off-gassing), but a potent rubber smell that can even remain on your hands after a couple of Down Dogs. I thought this new mat actually was pretty good, at least compared to previous rubber mats I've owned. My boyfriend felt otherwise, as he was unaccustomed to such smell. I am willing to put up with it, because I'd rather have the eco-friendly option, but it is good to note if you are looking for a mat to gift to a beginner--it may be slightly off-putting.
So all in all, I give the Manduka eKO Lite a thumbs up for being green and being a good travel companion. As long as you don't mind the extra weight and light rubber aroma, I'd happily recommend.
Are you on the search for the perfect, eco-friendly yoga mat? Years ago, there were only one or two options, but now, almost every mat company seems to be promoting green-friendly mats. So I thought I'd see what's out there. I decided I'd get a new mat for my trip to South Africa--I require a yoga mat on long travels, and need something lightweight and good quality.
I'm partial to Manduka's eco mats, as they are made of natural rubber (no PVC), and the company claims that they are fully biodegradable. Manduka's mats have always had a little extra girth and are much heavier than other mats on the market. But I love practicing on them and if I am at home or going to a local studio, it generally doesn't cause an issue. So I Googled to see if the company sold a travel mat and found the eKo Lite, which, according to Manduka's website, "marries performance and durability with a lightweight, travel-friendly design. The eKO Lite will leave no footprint in landfills, and is perfect for people who want to make a commitment to our planet and take their yoga practice on the road." The eKO Lite Mat is made from sustainably harvested tree rubber. Unlike other rubber mats available today, the foaming agents used to create the eKO Lite are non-toxic. What this means is that no toxic chemicals have gone into the manufacturing process to soften rubber; when the eKO Lite mat is disposed of and biodegrades, it will not leave behind a toxic residue. Additionally, instead of using synthetic polyester for reinforcement, the company has chosen to use recycled silk and natural cotton.
I was excited to find out that the mats cost less than $40 (so I bought 2 off Amazon.com, so I could encourage my boyfriend to practice with me on our travels), and the day before we left, the mats arrived. I will say that they are much lighter than the typical Manduka mats (3.5 lbs instead of the 7 lbs that the Manduka PRO weighs), but are still quite heavy for travel. But if you are not backpacking, they are compact and light enough for checked baggage and I happily stowed it in my suitcase. Upon further investigation, it seems I should have ordered the eKO Superlite Travel Mat, which weighs about 2 lbs and folds to fit easily in small travel spaces.
I arrived in Cape Town and got ready to practice. I unrolled my shiny new mat in the sunshine. It still has the great feel and quality that I've always liked in Manduka's mats. It did seem slightly narrower than a normal mat, which is fine for my 5'4" frame, but may be a bit tight for folks who are larger. The other issue that I've noticed with natural rubber mats is that they can have a really strong odor. Nothing dangerous or toxic (it's not an off-gassing), but a potent rubber smell that can even remain on your hands after a couple of Down Dogs. I thought this new mat actually was pretty good, at least compared to previous rubber mats I've owned. My boyfriend felt otherwise, as he was unaccustomed to such smell. I am willing to put up with it, because I'd rather have the eco-friendly option, but it is good to note if you are looking for a mat to gift to a beginner--it may be slightly off-putting.
So all in all, I give the Manduka eKO Lite a thumbs up for being green and being a good travel companion. As long as you don't mind the extra weight and light rubber aroma, I'd happily recommend.
Last week I posted a recipe for Elderberry Syrup to try and help folks stave off some of the cold and flu stuff going around. I thought I'd ask my good friend Trinity Ava, an incredible herbalist and teacher, for another recipe good for this time of year. She couldn't wait to share her sinus oil recipe. "Keeping the sinuses well lubricated with a simple sinus oil is the front line of your immune system function as well as keeping your nervous system/mental focus in check," she said. "This is also an ideal practice to use while traveling on long flights when the sinuses get very dry and we are more susceptible to infections."
Trinity suggests that daily lubrication of the sinus cavity can become a lifelong practice because of its clearing and strengthening benefits. Use a little dab of a simple oil, such as non-roasted organic sesame oil, ghee (clarified butter), or organic olive oil to lubricate the sinus pathway.
But should you find yourself dealing with a sinus infection or head-cold congestion, you may need something more powerful. Essential oils are extremely concentrated and are potent antimicrobials, and are useful if you have a sinus infection. (They must be diluted into a carrier oil prior to use.) A nice side effect of oils used for fighting an infection is their uplifting and mood-enhancing benefits at a time when you may feel pretty low.
Directions • Fill empty bottle halfway with carrier oil • Add to that 3 drops of each oil (if using all 5), or a total of 15 drops of essential oils per 5ml carrier oil • Top off your bottle with additional carrier oil, close the top, and shake • Label your bottle with a creative name, like: Love My Nose or Sinus Clarity
Application • Drop a quarter-size dollop of the oil blend onto a tissue. Insert the tissue into your nose and keep it there for 3-5 minutes. Do this 2-3 times per day or as needed. (Not intended for use longer than 1 week.)
Contraindications: Children under 12, pregnancy, lactation, asthma, epilepsy, hypertension. It is suggested to not use diluted essential oils in the sinus cavity on a daily basis. Essential oils are potent and are better suited to use on a need-basis for sinus oils. Pure carrier oils such as sesame or olive oil are better suited to daily sinus oil applications. Use caution if you use essential oils in a neti pot or steam. These practices are too intense for many individuals.
Natural DIY Remedy For Colds & Flus: Elderberry Syrup
So lately, I've been watching some of my friends contract some nasty form of cold or flu that seems to be going around. When I see that some impending illness is making its way close to my own immune system, I reach for things that will keep it strong and healthy. One of my favorites is elderberry syrup, not only because it is effective, but it is fun to make and delicious!
This remedy has been used for countless centuries to help bolster the immune system as well as to break fevers. A few years ago, research studies supported these traditional uses, concluding that an extract from black elderberry is an effective treatment for influenza, shortening the virus' lifespan and dramatically lessening symptoms.
While elderberry extract is available at health-food stores, it is a great activity to make it yourself. Fresh berries can be difficult to find, but this recipe also works great with dried elderberries (found easily at your local herb shop). A spoonful or two a day is all you need during a season where you are feeling particularly vulnerable to infection, or, as I like to do, use it as a syrup on your toast, oatmeal, or waffles. Yum! For this reason, it is great for kids and they just think it tastes great.
Recipe 1 cup fresh or 1/2 cup dried elderberries 3 cups water 1 cup raw honey
1. Place the berries in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer over low heat for 30 to 45 minutes.
2. Smash the berries. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer and add 1 cup of honey, or adjust to taste.
3. Bottle the syrup and store in the refrigerator, where it will keep for 2 to 3 months.
Caution: Use only Sambucus nigra, which are black/blue elderberries; the red ones are potentially toxic if eaten in large quantities. Never eat elderberries that haven't been cooked first.
Stephanie Bernstein is the Founder and CEO of To-Go Ware. She has been practicing and teaching yoga for 12 years and currently resides in Oakland, CA.
Find Your Way, Taking Your Own Advice In The New Year
A couple of months ago, I had a long phone call with an editor from Yoga Journal, asking me to share some of my thoughts about setting some intentions for the New Year. What were some of the ways I navigate through running my business? How do I find balance and clarity when I've lost my center? It was a really enlightening call, as although I employ certain tenets to move me through the harder times and moments of lesser clarity, I'd never really put them all into one place or shared them in such a way. This week, the February issue of Yoga Journal came out, in which the piece ran. It was amazing to read my own advice, as it was one of those weeks where I was needing some guiding principles. Reading those words was exactly what I needed to hear, and I laughed at the fact that I seemed to be giving myself my own advice. And what it affirmed was the fact that we always have the answers within us--losing our way doesn't mean that we are lost for good. It just means using our own inner guidance and our practice to gently steer ourselves toward our best selves.
So if you haven't picked up your copy of Yoga Journal yet (with the radiant Amy Ippoliti on the cover), here is my offering to you:
Get Unstuck. Break out of your rut with an out-of-the-ordinary activity--a weekend trip, a new sport, a creative pursuit. This can get you out of your rational brain, detach you from the usual scripts in your head, and create space for answers and insights.
Listen. Underneath your mental chatter, you may have a clear instinct for how you want to act in your life. But you may be quashing or deflecting that instinct. To get in touch with your inner wisdom, practice letting go of the way you think things are supposed to be. Be willing to be surprised.
Have Faith. Trust that circumstances in your life will align to support you on your path. When you make a commitment, life will make a commitment back.
Notice. There are many gifts in your life. As you work to clarify your intentions, be aware of the people who support you and the resources that are all around you--and be open to what they have to offer.
Stephanie Bernstein is the Founder and CEO of To-Go Ware. She has been practicing and teaching yoga for 12 years and currently resides in Oakland, CA.
Are you on the search for the perfect, eco-friendly yoga mat? Years ago, there were only one or two options, but now, almost every mat company seems to be promoting green-friendly mats. So I thought I'd see what's out there. I decided I'd get a new mat for my trip to South Africa--I require a yoga mat on long travels, and need something lightweight and good quality.
yogajournal.com
vegetariantimes.com
backpacker.com
optimumwellness.com
wholefoodsmarket.com
betternutrition.com
