The beauty of yoga is without a doubt the versatility of its practice. It can be practiced at any time of the day, indoors or outdoors, and does not require much space. It can be practiced alone, in a group and even online. Plus, basic yoga equipment is simple and portable. That said, although yoga requires little equipment, it is important to choose it carefully according to your needs.
What are the benefits of yoga?
Increased flexibility and body awareness, increased muscle tone and reduced stress are all now fully recognized benefits of yoga. We are convinced that the accessories of this discipline often sporting softly colored and zen patterns contribute to a marked improvement in the mood.
Improved strength, balance and flexibility
Yoga leads those who practice it, even beginners, to constantly mobilize all of their physical, mental and spiritual resources, while aiming to respect their limits long before performance. In terms of improving strength, we are not just talking about physical power. Strength also lies in determination, discipline and stability.
As for more concrete elements, foam blocks are useful when it comes time to hold a posture of balance or flexibility, where they are used as an extension of the arms to support and help achieve the movement. It should be noted that almost all postures can be modified with a yoga brick!
Reduces pain, arthritis and back pain
Yoga allows for better alignment of the spine. The back, which supports a large part of the physical load of the body, is thus often relieved by the practice of yoga. As such, why not take advantage of a short yoga session between two online meetings to breathe and relax? Because we all know it: spending a day in front of your computer, especially when you don't have all the ergonomic equipment at home, can be exhausting! To relieve the back, we will opt for these postures:
- the cat (round back/hollow back);
- the board;
- the dog (head down);
- and the cobra;
- or a simple spinal twist, good for the back, but also for the hips!
Improved heart health
Yoga and meditation, like pilates and tabletop gymnastics, are so-called low-intensity activities. Never mind! They are no less beneficial! Indeed, it is proven that yoga can reduce the risk factors associated with cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension and type 2 diabetes.
Relaxation and stress management
Ah! those yogis beaming with serenity! In addition to the relaxation aspect, regulating your breathing leads to a reduction in stress. Slow, meditative breathing, during stretching and yoga practice, relaxes both body and mind.
Note: the simultaneous work of breathing and muscle training causes a higher supply of oxygen to the body, which helps to reduce blood pressure. Namaste!
yoga mat
The mat is the ultimate accessory when it comes to yoga. It constitutes this small individual ground where to meditate and realize your postures.
Material
Several materials and materials can go into the composition of a yoga mat. There are different models in PVC, elastomer, thermoplastic, rubber, cotton and even cork. It is important, when choosing your carpet, to inform yourself about the characteristics of each option. For example, the synthetic mat absorbs little water, which makes it easy to clean, while the rubber mat has a special smell at the very beginning, but provides excellent grip.
Thickness
A thin yoga mat will provide better stability when performing standing or balancing poses. In addition, it will be ultra-light and easy to carry during your indoor or outdoor yoga sessions. If you always practice at home, in a designated place, opt for a thicker mattress, which will be more durable.
Maintenance
Your mat should be washed according to the frequency of your yoga practices. Once a month, for occasional practice, is quite sufficient. Mild soap and water, and a microfiber cloth, are all you need. Make sure your mat is completely dry before rolling it (generally speaking, only roll it when needed). Like any porous material that comes into contact with the skin during physical exertion, germs can multiply quickly.
And bref:
- A yoga mat is replaced about once a year;
- If it is thinner in some places, chipped or torn, the risk of injury is increased;
- Soap and water, yes, except for rubber mats, which should preferably be cleaned with an oil-based solution;
- If you use the mat from a gym or yoga studio, be sure to wipe it down before and after your use.
Yoga clothes
When engaging in a yoga session, being able to achieve a full range of motion is essential.
Shorts or pants
The choice between shorts and yoga pants is mainly based on your preferences: here, there are no rules!
Top close to the body
Depending on where you practice it, wear a comfortable and flexible set, ideally close to the body. Depending on the postures performed, if you do some of them inverted, for example, the looser clothes may fall off. That's why, if you opt for a loose outfit, choose models with fitted ends.
Headband for long hair
Since yoga is intended to be oriented towards relaxation and letting go, there is no need to tie the hair very tightly. We opt for an airy braid or a headband, which will hold the hair, with ease.
Socks?
Most of the time, yoga is practiced barefoot, but if you prefer socks, choose ones that have good grip.
There are two types of socks for yogis on the market. The first have two openings, either at the heel and at the toes, which is a good compromise to let the feet breathe while being comfortable. The second are shoes with a non-slip coating. There is something for everyone!
See our collection of yoga clothing and equipment
Towel
The yoga towel must:
- absorb perspiration;
- protect the carpet;
- be light and easy to transport.
We like it in hot yoga!
yoga strap
By definition, yoga props are objects that strengthen, stretch, loosen or improve the alignment of the body. The strap sits at the top of these. The length of the yoga strap makes it possible to adjust the posture according to the body of the person who practices it. It becomes, like the block of foam, an extension of the body.
Bolster
The bolster, or yoga bolster, makes certain yoga postures more accessible to those who have less good balance, or even limited strength and flexibility. It can be used under the back to open the rib cage and promote relaxation, or under the buttocks, lying with the legs up to promote venous return.
Transport bag
The bag in which you carry your yoga equipment will depend on several factors:
- the quantity of accessories;
- the size of your yoga mat (5 cm more than your mat is enough);
- the lifespan of the bag equivalent to that of your carpet;
- good value for money!
Yoga items at Go Sport!
Consult our merchants to get your yoga set as well as the accessories that will best suit your practice of this sport of relaxation, balance and power. Do not hesitate to ask questions! We have many followers through our network, but above all real sports and activity enthusiasts!
