Isn’t it funny how we use yoga mats now when yoga has been around forever, even before mats were a thing?

It is a common concern that arises among many yoga enthusiasts regarding whether or not one actually has to use a yoga mat or can they still practice yoga without one. People somehow have it in their mind that yoga mats are an aesthetic accessory required only in the studio or gym. How is it that an age-old practice such as yoga suddenly requires fancy modern equipment to be practiced when it has been well known to have been in practice way before the invention of yoga mats?

For starters let us consider the techniques of early yoga.

Our ancient Yogis practiced yoga in places like deep jungles or caves completely cut off from society where they could connect with their inner self. But if you ever see images scriptures or art effects of ancient yogis, you will notice that they would be sitting on some animal fur or cloth for their practices which they used as they needed a bit of cushioning. However, there is a deeper scientific reason, why ancient Yogis used fur or why we use mats at this time. even at the institute when we have a class, mats are spread around the floor.

When practicing yoga postures or meditation on the floor, your body loses energy. Although these yogic techniques are supposed to increase your energy levels, direct contact with the floor can have the opposite effect. The coolness of the floor can lower your body temperature. As the ground absorbs heat, sitting or lying directly on the floor or grass without any padding can cause your body to lose heat to the ground.

Now we know that one of the most important tasks of the human body is to maintain its temperature and internal temperature can be critical for our organs to function properly. So when we practice yoga directly on floor tiles it causes our bodies to increase the rate of sugar and oxygen being used. that otherwise could be spared. This forces us to use up the glycogen stored in our muscles causing extra strain on the lungs while doing this. With modern ceramic or marble tile flooring, the body’s energy is wasted as these surfaces are much cooler. However, wooden flooring tends to be warmer.

Using a mat during practice creates a barrier between you and the floor, preventing unnecessary energy loss. It also provides immediate insulation when practicing on a cold surface. You don’t need a specific type of mat – a simple rug can be beneficial.

However, with advanced technology, there are now yoga mats that offer insulation and anti-slip properties, ensuring stability and preventing slippage during different yoga poses. A yoga mat also provides cushioning for comfort during your practice session. Additionally, direct contact with a cold floor can lead to excessive energy use and various problems like catching a cold, wheezing, asthma, muscle pains, and joint pains.

Therefore, it is better not to practice yoga postures or meditation directly on a bare floor. Instead, always use a rug, carpet, or yoga mat. These days, there are tons of options when it comes to choosing a mat. Things like price, size, and material help determine which mat is the best fit for you as a yogi. So choose wisely, until then take care and Namaskar.