Top 5 Yoga Essentials (Advice From an Avid Yogi)
I fell in love with yoga two years ago, when fate convinced me to walk into my local Corepower Yoga. Since then, I became a teacher myself (Here is one of my sequences!) and now practice every day. Here are my top 5 yoga essentials, from an obsessed yogi.
#1 A Good Quality Yoga Mat
The number one yoga essential you will need is a good quality yoga mat. Sure, many studios offer mat rentals, but the cost of renting could quickly add up. For new students, I recommend borrowing a mat from a friend before deciding to purchase your own mat. This way you can be certain that you’ll maintain a regular practice before spending $100 on a mat. I currently use Lululemon’s “The Mat 5mmMade With FSC™ Certified Rubber,” which I’ve had for over a year. The best part about Lululemon mats is that they are under warranty, meaning that if your yoga mat gets damaged, they will replace it for you for free (#lifehack). Other yogis speak highly of the “Manduka PRO™ Yoga Mat 6mm,” which also has a lifetime guarantee. Manduka mats are slightly more expensive than Lululemon mats, but they offer 15% off your purchase when you sign up for email and text notifications.
#2 A Non-Slip, Quick-Drying Yoga Mat Towel
Yoga essential number two is a fast-drying, grippy yoga mat towel. I own approximately ten of Manduka’s “eQua Yoga Mat Towels” and I absolutely love them. Their towels are very lightweight and your sweat practically instantly absorbs into them. But the best part is that the more you sweat, the grippier the towel becomes.
When I first started my practice, I would use regular beach and bath towels. This is perfectly fine for beginners, but it poses two big problems. One, your towel will likely be way too short or way too long for your mat. Short towels will make transitions from crescent lunge to warrior two very slippery, which can be dangerous. Long towels can get in the way of your neighbors. Two, these towels have less grip than a yoga mat towel, meaning they will likely be sliding around your mat. They might scrunch up when you turn your feet and will be annoying to shift back into place during class.
Yoga mat towels are definitely worth the money, and for a cheaper option try Target’s All in Motion Yoga Mat Towels.
#3 A Yoga Mat Strap
Next up, we have a yoga mat strap. I used to be one of those people who thought mat straps were a total waste of money. Until I bought one… For whatever reasons, having a mat strap makes your life 10x easier. To be honest, I like to attempt to hold my water bottle, keys, towel, and mat all at once rather than using a bag… so for me personally, the strap makes a huge difference.
My boyfriend and I both use and love the Lululemon “Loop It Up Mat Strap” (I swear this isn’t sponsored!).
#4 A 2L (or more) Water Bottle
Yoga (especially hot yoga) can be very dehydrating, making it essential to carry a jug that holds lots of water. I love my Nalgene water bottle because they are easy to carry, hold a lot of liquid, and never spill. They can be used for hiking, beach days, and yoga–all while never spilling in your bag.
I recommend students always have at least 2L of water, especially in hotter classes, to avoid running out of water. As teachers, we recommend staying in the room for the entire class to avoid sudden changes in temperature or exertion. This change could potentially cause nausea or dizziness, or might disrupt the general flow of the class. Having enough water ahead of time helps with heat acclimation and avoiding potential discomfort.
#5 Moisture-Wicking, Stretchy Yoga Clothes
Last but not least, I recommend purchasing a set or two (or five) of moisture-wicking yoga clothes. Yoga clothes are designed to keep you dry and comfortable by absorbing your sweat and moving with you. You can get away with ordinary workout clothes, but the stretchy nature of yoga clothes ensures your comfort during class.
Beyond Yoga (I love the “Spacedye Slim Racerback Cropped Tank“), Lululemon, and Athleta are some of my favorite brands. Target also has some cute, affordable options.
With these yoga essentials in your bag, you’ll be well-prepared and looking good in your next yoga class. As always, feel free to comment any questions or comments. Namaste!
