Yoga with Lari Mindful Movement Mat
There are plenty of yoga mats available on the market but many are designed by people and companies that don’t practice yoga. Five years ago, I was inspired by my needs as a yoga teacher, and those of my students, to design my first yoga mat. Learn more below. Since then, I ventured to create a mat that enhances one’s practice and aligns with the values of yoga. I hope that when you step onto your mat you will feel inspired and connected to this spiritual practice.
Since I first started yoga, I found myself replacing the so-called “store-bought” mats regularly. They would quickly decline into wet, wobbly and welcome scratch-pads for my cats. A few hundred rands later, I stumbled upon a rubber, yoga-mat experience. I became a fan of the rubber mat. My yoga practice gained in momentum. I instantly felt the ease of movement. The mat stayed firmly gripped to the ground at all times. A shifting mat and hurtling dangerously across the room during handstands became history. I no longer slipped on a wet mat. My heels and feet stayed rooted to where I placed them. I experienced a new level of comfort standing, kneeling, sitting and lying down. The 4mm thickness adds a cushion effect. The most encouraging feature of this mat is its durability. My mat has lasted routine practice, 3 teacher trainings, a trip to India and it is still going strong.
The phrase on the mat is a Sanskrit aphorism.
स्थिरसुखम्आसनम
Sthira Sukham Asanam
Of the 196 Yoga Sutras (a set of guiding principles) this one resonates most with me. It is therefore the inspiration behind my latest mat design.
This Sanskrit phrase translates to ‘The posture should be steady and comfortable.’ It reminds us of the importance of finding balance between stability (sthira) and ease/comfort (sukha) in the practice of yoga asanas/postures.
Each time you step onto your yoga mat, and glance down at this meaningful phrase, you’re reminded to:
Not push yourself beyond your limits or force the body into discomfort.
Notice moments of tension/stress in your body and seek to find a state of ease within those areas.
Observe the fluctuations of your mind and aim to bring stability and tranquility to your thoughts and emotions.
A yoga mat is the only piece of “equipment” you “need” to practice. If you intend on doing yoga regularly, invest in a good quality, durable mat from the start. Introducting the Mindful Movement Mat: A premium, eco-friendly and durable natural rubber mat. More than a mat, this is movement towards a more mindful practice. Created for a yogi, by a yogi.