International Yoga Day: How to look after your yoga mat
International Yoga Day 2024 is upon us and some of us are checking out our yoga mat collections, having a little spring clean of those that we might not use anymore or bringing back the ones that give us additional joy in our yoga practice by using them again. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting on your practice, taking care of your yoga mat is a high priority in getting the most out of each session. Here are the answers to all the questions about this and some helpful tips to keep your mat fresh and a happy place to spend time.
What is international yoga day?
International Yoga Day is on the 21st of June and celebrated across the world. Adopted by the United Nations in 2014, it’s a day that marks the significant impact the practice of yoga has on individuals physical and mental wellbeing. The UN believed that it had such influence that it was of a high enough importance to have a day dedicated to its celebration every year and they have continued to encourage people all across the globe to get involved.
“The word "yoga," which means "to join or to unite," represents the fusion of the physical body and the mental consciousness. It is currently practiced in many countries all over the world and is becoming more and more popular. In recognition of its universal appeal, the United Nations declared 21 June to be the International Day of Yoga in 2014. The purpose of the International Day of Yoga is to increase public awareness of the various advantages of yoga practice.”
Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh, WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia
How do you keep your yoga mat clean?
Yoga encompasses a wide range of styles, from vigorous to more laid back styles, and many practitioners incorporate a variety of these to suit their physical and mental needs. Regardless of the style, all yoga mats require cleaning. Whether you practice indoors or outdoors, at the gym or in your bedroom, whether you sweat a lot or hardly at all, keeping your mat clean is essential.
Make time at regular intervals to deep clean your mat. Schedule once a week, once a month or once a quarter.
Always make sure your mat is dry before you put it away.
Store your mat properly to ensure its longevity.
How long do bacteria live on a yoga mat?
To help you establish how long you might want to leave it between deep cleaning your mat, here are some of the likely bacteria that stick around you’ll want to know about.
Flu viruses can live on a yoga mat for up to 24 hours
Cold viruses can stick around for several days
Fungi responsible for skin infections can thrive on yoga mats and survive for months
Microbes are particularly fond of warm, moist environments such as yoga studios, which are often heated to high levels and promote extensive sweating
Can you use chemicals on your yoga mat?
Thinking about the germs that might be harboring on your mat might be leading you to consider using chemicals to get the cleanest clean possible, but you’re being advised against it. Always check the brand’s guidelines to learn about what you can put on your mat.
Your face and body are going to be on this surface, you don’t want to be coming into close contact with harsh chemicals
Chemicals can have a reaction with your mat material causing it to lose its useful properties like being grippy
Chemicals can eat through the material causing it to disintegrate
There are other ways to clean without using chemicals
How often do you need to clean your yoga mat?
After every use.
Whilst you might be thinking about getting your deep clean in twice a month, are you cleaning your mat after every practice? If you’ve ever shared a mat in the gym, you’ll know that it’s both common practice and common courtesy to clean the shared mat after every use, but you should be doing the same for your private mat too. There are a variety of natural yoga mat cleaners on the market which make this quick and easy to do, so next time you use your mat, don’t forget to clean it.
What are the benefits of cleaning your yoga mat?
Good yoga mat hygiene is a key part of your practice, keeping your mat cleans keep you healthy, here are the main benefits of cleaning your yoga mat.
Avoid any build up of nasty smells
Increases the lifespan of your yoga mat
Avoids nasty germs and bacteria
Reduces the likelihood of any skin infections
Enhances your overall practice
What’s a simple way to disinfect my yoga mat?
If you’re looking to keep things clean in your yoga practice, the easiest method is to use a yoga mat spray. After each session, you can spray your mat down to ensure that you’ve cleansed it both from any nasties and creating a prepared cleansed space for your next session.
The additional benefit to using the Free Flow Yoga Mat Spray or the Still Waters Yoga Mat Spray is that they have been crafted with dedicated essential oils to elevate your practice.
Why are essential oils beneficial to my yoga practice?
We don’t need to tell you about the numerous studies that have proven the effects of essential oils and aromatherapy on reducing anxious feelings, alleviating stress and improving your mood, but you can check out our Favorite Wellness Essential Oils for Self Care and The Top Essential Oils for Stress and Anxiety Relief.
When essential oils are used in combination with yoga, you can expect these benefits:
Enhanced relaxation
Improved focus and concentration
Boosted energy levels
Support of respiratory health
Aiding in muscle recovery
Elevated mood
Promotes a deeper meditation
Enhances the overall ambiance
International Yoga Day 2024 is the perfect time to focus on maintaining your yoga mat. Whether you're an experienced yogi or new to the practice, proper yoga mat hygiene is crucial for a fulfilling and healthy experience. Regular cleaning prevents the build-up of odors, extends the life of your mat and protects you from harmful bacteria.
By avoiding harsh chemicals and opting for natural cleaning solutions, you ensure that your mat remains in good condition without compromising your health. Additionally, incorporating essential oils into your cleaning routine can enhance your practice by promoting relaxation, improving focus and creating a beautiful atmosphere.