The workout realigns and strengthens the body using added resistance from modified reformer beds, shaking up traditional Kx Pilates Dee Why in a big way. Yoga is becoming a force in Western culture and the more that people practice and evolve their practice, the more they seek to find a sacred space in which they can release into their inner self. Retreats to India and exotic places around the world are becoming ever more popular, yoga studios with atmosphere appeal, as well as endless brands for props, clothes, and yoga mats are popping out of every corner of the mind-body marketplace.
Now the big question is, “is this stuff really in spirit of what yoga is trying to teach us?” Well, I certainly can’t blame people seeing a “niche” and wanting to make a living in a field of wellness. I myself am a yoga teacher who has created and trademarked a practice I call Yogaeira (a fusion of Yoga, Capoeira, and Thai Bodywork).
However, more mindfulness is certainly needed in the making of many of these products , but as consumers we also need to stop pointing fingers and ask…”are we doing the research ourselves to see if the products we are using are in line with our values?”
With this is in mind, I have found myself particularly drawn to a company by the name of Yogasana. They create eco-yoga mats that are 100% cotton, eco friendly and natural and are hand-woven on manual looms in India. And they are stunning! They have the vibration that is apparent in something that is natural and hand-made and these yoga mats truly are eco and energy friendly. Yogis in India try them out for their yoga practice and they said that these mats seem to naturally stimulate certain pressure points in the hands and feet. They feel good after using this yoga mat. It is also not common for a Yogi from India to use a PVC mat. Typically they practice in nature or on a rug.
Sacred space can certainly be a state of mind, but I believe the energy we create around us from our thoughts to the products we support play a big role in just how authentic our sacred space will truly be.