Yoga involves a number of exercises designed to improve the vital functions of the body. This includes both the body's physical and mental health. The way these exercises are performed can be done standing or lying down. When you need to lie down in order to perform the exercises, you certainly want to be comfortable when you do so. It would probably not be all that beneficial to risk discomfort and injury when working out on a hard wood floor. Then again, even a matted floor could prove to be uncomfortable. That is why you need to purchase a decent yoga mat to make the whole process a lot easier.

Is the process to select a proper yoga mat difficult? No, it simply involves following a few simple steps that are detailed as follows:

The thickness of the mat is definitely worth looking at because it is this thickness than can prevent you from suffering any discomfort from kneeling or lying on the mat. Generally, a mat that is 1/8" thick should prove fine. Those that need a little extra protection may wish to look towards the extra thick mats that are in the 1/4'' of an inch range. Thicker mats like this provide excellent protection for the knees since the padding is significant.

It would be beneficial to purchase a yoga mat that is produced completely from natural products. A common natural product that is used to make a yoga mat is cork. Such material can most definitely provide excellent comfort while also contributing to the environment since petroleum is not used to create the mat. So, you get the combined benefit of a reliable, comfortable may while also ‘going green' in the process.

Another type of natural that frequently proves to be a popular purchase would be a jute map. Such material is quite flexible and return back to its original shape when it is unfolded. That means the mat will last quite a number of years since it is not prone to cracking after years of use and folding.

And here is some additional news that most will find helpful: the cost of a quality yoga mat is not as expensive as assumed. There are a great many mats that can be purchased for under $30.

Selecting the right yoga mat is most definitely not a herculean task. You simply need to look for the right size, material, and price range. When you find the right match for your criteria, you have found the right mat to suit your needs.