I have the *Manuka Yoga Eco Luxury Yoga Mat (£38) which is the first yoga mat I've ever had and I'm wondering why I didn't pick one up before! It is eco friendly as it is made of non-toxic materials and it's free from ozone depleting materials too. The mat is bigger than I initially expected, it's approximately 63cm by 183cm and it has a thickness of 0.6cm. I love the little details of the mat including the stitched label and the ribbon tie which holds the mat rolled up and secure until it's used again. Even though the mat is fairly lightweight and thin, it makes such a difference in terms of padding and comfort while standing, sitting and especially lying down. I've been using it every time I use my at home yoga dvds and I don't know why I haven't pick up a yoga mat before; it's such a simple accessory but it is essential, in my opinion.
I also have the *Manuka Yoga Eco Yoga Block (£10) which is something I have never thought of using but I've personally found it really useful. The block and the mat are both latex free and they are made from eco friendly materials which is always a extra positive. The block can be used three different ways - at it's tallest, one it's side and laid flat so there are three different heights. I find that some days I'm not as flexible or I'm struggling with a certain pose, the block acts as a balancing factor and because of the three different heights, I can adjust it to my needs that day. It's not something I would use on a daily basis but when I need some help or if I'm starting a new or harder pose then I can use the block for extra stability.
Overall, I'm really happy with both products, especially the mat and I love the quality of the products as well as the eco friendly ethos of the brand. I think that both the mat and block are going to last a long time! I'm a beginner and I find these products are already so useful and I have been doing my basic yoga sequences more often as I want to use the products; morning yoga is definitely the best way to start the day - it makes me feel stretched, awake and relaxed. I will have more yoga posts on my blog next month so stay tuned. If you have any beginner tips, tricks or at home dvd recommendations then leave them in the comments section below. Here is my mini Manuka Yoga wish list:
Have you bought anything from Manuka Yoga? What are your favourite yoga/fitness accessories?
