Beautiful, cotton, handmade yoga mats

If you’re looking for something special for yourself or a yogi friend, check out these organic, natural, cotton mats from Ayur Yoga Organics. Beautifully made, each mat is crafted with Ayurvedic principles in mind and contains herbs that have been selected to to balance different doshas (constitution).

  • Sun Mat: Yellow/ Tumeric base with neem, designed to invigorate and support kapha (earthy) constitutions
  • Moon Mat: Gray/ Neem base with tumeric, cooling to support pitta (fiery) constitutions
  • Earth Mat: Gray/ Neem base with pomegranate, grounding for vata (airy) constitutions

The mats are pre-shrunk, made with organic cotton and jute (vegetable fibre) yarn. The yarn that is used is soaked in a special bath of herbs that are designed to accommodate each dosha (constitution), then dried for eighteen days to let the mats absorb the properties of the bath. After the mat is woven, the back of the mat is brushed with rubber to give it some stick to the floor.

But how are they for practice?

I tried out an Ayur Yoga mat in class and enjoyed the novelty of having cotton (rather than rubber) under my hands. Though the cotton felt initially a bit slippy, the mats are cleverly woven with threaded ridges to aid the grip in both the hands and feet. I dribbled some water to the mat (those of you who have used mat towels before know this trick), and the mat became easier to grip. If you sweat, you’ll love having cotton under your hands for better traction. (Using a cotton mat for practice is not a new idea: ashtanga practitioners routinely place cotton “rug” on top of their rubber mats.)

Pro’s of mat

  • Beautifully and uniquely made (it’s like practicing on art)
  • Organic cotton
  • Ayurvedic integration
  • Extremely easy to carry (lightweight and folds/ rolls easily)
  • Easy to clean (throw in cold water)
  • Well-priced: $108 (ashtanga mats are about $100)
  • Feel good about supporting entrepreneurs!

Con’s of mat

  • The ridges (though good for grip) may be irritating to those who roll over their toes a lot or like a smooth surface
  • The rubber coated bottom may slide on floor and distort matter if enough force is applied
  • Mats are thin; f you have sensitive knees or hip points, you may need more padding
  • Mats may be machine washed cold, but I cannot speak to their longevity without practicing on it longer.

I love having this mat in my collection. I don’t think I’ll ever get rid of my trusty Manduka, but this beauty is a lovely addition and I look forward to practicing on it more.

Interested?

Get 20% off with the discount code Yoga20.

Product Review: Lamose Water Bottle

They folks at Lamose asked me to check out their water bottles. Now, I lose water bottles more easily than a husky sheds fur, so I was more than happy to be gifted one to try out.

I love what they have done.

Here are the pro’s:

  • Textured stainless steel finish (“powdered”) for an easy and sticky grip.
  • 100% stainless steel. No plastic.
  • Double wall insulation keeps cold beverages cool, and hot beverages hot for a very long time.
  • Comfy to drink from. I love the lip of the bottle. That may seem like an odd thing to say, but some water bottle lips feel rather sharp, while some (like the Lamose) feel smooth and full. It is a pleasure to drink from.
  • Designed and started in Canada! Whoo hoooo!
  • Sweet story: “Lamose” stands for Lake – Mountain – Sea. That’s about as charming as you can get.
  • Two different styles (Moraine and Robson) and a range of festive colors.
  • Lifetime warranty.

The price is fairly standard ($28 US/ $35 CAD) for a good quality water bottle these days. If you need a holiday gift idea, check these guys out. I think they’ve made a great product.

I really hope I don’t lose it.

What to Buy For your Yogi Friend This Holiday Season

Have a yogi friend that you want to do something special for?

I love Half Moon Yoga Products; I’ve been using their stuff for years. Great quality, competitive pricing (even better with the Rachel Yoga discount), and I love the company. Here’s a hit list for inspiration!

Mat

If your friend is getting serious about their practice and doesn’t yet have a mat, then this considerate gift will be one that keeps on giving for years. In general, mats can vary in durability and thickness. I like The Mighty Mat  ($80) is durable, PVC free, and sticky.  It comes with a lifetime guarantee, so this mat may be the only one that your friend needs. If you prefer a mat that isn’t so heavy, you can check out the Studio Mat ($35) which is a great budget option for lighter usage.

Meditation cushion

I bought my Half Moon meditation cushion ($75-$90) more than a decade ago and it has been a fast friend ever since. Super comfortable and durable, this cushion makes sitting on the floor and creating some sacred space so much easier. I use it to sit for evening meditation. Seeing it is also nice little visual reminder to get my butt down and take some quiet time. If your friend is exploring the quieter side of the practice, then this could be a great support.

Blocks

If your friend is starting yoga home practice and has a mat, the getting them a set of their own blocks ($15-$34) is an awesome idea. After a mat, blocks are the prop that everyone should have. Blocks help to support the student’s body in a variety of positions to make the poses both more challenging as well as more accessible. I prefer the thicker 4″ blocks to the 3″ blocks. Chip foam blocks are useful as a small meditation seat, under the head cushion, or knee support.

Blanket

One of my friends gave me a Half Moon blanket ($46-$118) for a birthday several years ago. Much to my surprise, I use it all the time. Obviously it can be used as a cover if I feel chill during meditation or Savasana, but I also use it to prop up my head, support my knees like a mini bolster, and use to lift my seat if I don’t have my meditation cushion. These blankets are super soft and cozy, it’s like being snuggled in a cloud. I have the natural cotton yoga blanket, and it’s wonderful, though you can get silk weaves if you’re looking for something very special. A blanket is a surprisingly versatile tool for the yogis who has the basics.

The Yummies

Eye Pillow

Eye pillows ($22-$44) are wonderful. By cutting out the light in the room, eye pillows help you to rest and restore more deeply. You don’t have to wait for Savasana to use them; pull them out anytime you need a supine rejuvenation. The weight of the pillow on the eyes feels very relaxing, and the delicately scented bags add a little aromatherapy to the experience.

Essential Oils

There’s something very sensual and nourishing about using essential oils. Not only is there a relaxing process of self care in applying oils, but the scents are crafted to help balance your nervous system. Half Moon has a great little kit of essential oils ($45) that address each doshas (personality type). When you feel anxious or ungrounded, you might apply the Vata oil (which will be calming). The Kapha oil is invigorating and reduces lethargy. The Pitta oil is cooling and pacifying. (Being an anxious gal, I basically want to take a bath in my Vata essential oil.) If your friend loves scents, this yoga aromatherapy choice will be a special gift.

Don’t see what you want? They’ve got more suggestions here. 

Best of all, you get a discount. Get 20% off your purchases when you use the promo code RACHEL2017.
Already a teacher? Get an additional 10% off (wow!) your 25% discount with this code: RACHEL2017TEACHER. 

Happy shopping!

 

Giveaway: Win a 5-day Spirit Pass to BaliSpirit Festival!

What is  BaliSpirit Festival?

BaliSpirit Festival is an international yoga and music festival, celebrating community and well-being in Ubud, Bali, April 2-8, 2018. 
Now in its 11th year and moving from strength to strength, the BaliSpirit Festival has become increasingly global, attracting international leaders and a surging audience of empowered attendees from across the globe. Growing number of Yoga-Dance-Culture lovers, Music, and Wellness fanatics are joining us every year from over 50 nations for this 6-day and 7-night event on the idyllic tropical island of Bali.

The Festival Vision

  • To awaken and nourish each individual’s potential for positive change within, leading to positive change in our homes, in our communities, and around the world.
  • Through beneficial and inspirational traditions of Yoga, Dance, and Music, the Festival illustrates the Balinese Hindu concept of Tri Hita Karana: living in harmony with our spiritual, social, and natural environments.
  • To nourishing our own home in Bali, the founders pledge to provide financial, logistical, and organizational support to local charities, with a special emphasis on children’s programs, multicultural education and performance, healthcare, HIV&AIDS awareness, and environmental conservation in Bali and greater Indonesia.

Giveaway Details

  • 5-DAY SPIRIT PASS
  • $650 USD value
  • The pass valid for April 2-7, 2018 – 5 days & 6 nights
  • Enter by November 20 (winner chosen by December 1)

Includes:

  • Pre-festival opening party – April 2
  • Unlimited access to all daytime workshops – April 3-7
  • Unlimited access to all music nights – April 3-7

By donation:

  • Access to Community Day & Closing Ceremony – April 8

Does NOT Include:

  •  Special Events & Shuttle Service
However, you can still get a $75 discount on the Festival by using the promocode RachelYoga!
Check it out.

Product Review: BDirty

Who doesn’t want to get a little dirty?

I discovered these products through the founder (and my friend) Kate. What began as a hobby to share with her friends has evolved into a thriving small business because people love what she is creating.

And so do I.

BDirty is all natural honey deodorant. Hand crafted in British Columbia on her farmstead, this stuff is simple, pure, organic, and chemical free. I’ve tried lots of different kinds of natural deodorants and slathered many a crystal rock into my pits, but BDirty is the best I’ve tried. And I love their ethics.

Some of its key points:

  • handmade
  • organic
  • aluminum, paraben and phthalates free
  • recyclable glass packaging (not plastic!)
  • gmo-free
  • tested on people – not furry friends

The jars are little, but they last. A little jar lasted me a month (you really don’t need much of this stuff!). I love the size because they’re easy to carry around in my bag and great for travel.

I like this product so much that I became an ambassador for them so that I can toot their horn – and offer you, dear readers, a discount to try it out. You can grab some online or you can find it at your local BC dealers (YYoga and Nectar to name a few).

 

Check out their site and see if you like what you see.

My readers get a special 15% off! Use the promo code RACHEL15.

 

Product Review: MeetMindful, the new dating app

Tired of feeling like you’re being swiped just for your profile pic?

Friends, you might like a new dating app called MeetMindful that has come onto the scene. MeetMindful is the dating app for people who are interested in conscious living. The front webpage of the app has a photo of a guy with a man bun. Enough said.

The good folks at MeetMindful gave me a shout to test it out, and I have to say I think it’s a great alternative to some of the online sites out there. While the app is not technically different from other dating sites on the market (you get the same kind of experience in terms of seeing profile pics, about you sections, deal breakers, questions about lifestyle, etc.), MeetMindful is attracting a particular demographic of user, which changes the vibe of the experience. Most of the gentlemen that I scoped out online seemed to prioritize their health, spiritual connection, and personal growth. Their profile pics include words like “listening,” “connection,” and “mindfulness.” If these are important values for you, then MeetMindful may be a good place to connect with like-minded people.

The nitty gritty.

If you use the free version of the site, you can browse local users and like them. The premium version of the site (starting at $9 USD/ month if you buy a year, up to $29 USD/ month if you go month by month) offers you other options, such as messaging, filtering your search, and seeing who has liked your profile. You can’t message someone (or respond) unless you’re a premium user, so unless you want to simply like people and hope they message you with their information, premium is a much better option. 

MeetMindful is a newer company, and hasn’t yet broken into all markets. For example, Seattle has a lot of users, but is just starting to gain traction in Vancouver. If you’re curious to check it out, sign up for free and find out how many people are in your local community. If you like what you see, then you can opt to pay for the premium version. I think this app will attract users pretty quickly, and there’s no harm in jumping on the free version until your local community picks up. 

What I liked most about MeetMindful is that using it didn’t feel, well… sketchy. Cruising around on apps like Bumble or Tinder can feel depersonalizing.  However, users who choose to get on an app called Meet Mindful are probably not there for just a hook up.  If you’re tired of the swipe, come check it out!

Try Out Your Two Free-Day Trial Now!

 

Product Review: Bagby

Who needs a night time cuddle case for to tuck in your iPhone?

The folks at Bagby believe that “people, especially couples, are increasingly disconnected from each other” so they started a #PhoneFreeBedroomChallenge. Basically, you put your phone into this little carrier and keep it out of the bedroom. Partners agree that they’re going to keep devices out of the bedroom in order to connect more with each other. Less devices = more intimacy. Which is a great idea. I love the idea of a #screenfreebedroom. In addition to giving you more organic connect time with your loved one, you also have the added benefit of descreening your pre-sleep time, which is better for getting a good night’s rest.

So, why do you need a designated Bagby sac to have a phone free bedroom? Well, the truth is that you absolutely don’t. You could designate a charging spot in the kitchen and put your phones there just as easily. But there IS something very mindful and sweet about the Bagby sac. If you are your partner are screen addicts, then a deliberate “no phone” ritual could be a helpful way to help uphold your intention. And if you have a screen-hungry partner, it could be a nice little stocking stuffer hint.

Whether or not you get a Bagby sac, these folks definitely have the right idea. Get an old school alarm clock, and leave your phones outside the bedroom. And while you’re at it, ditch the iPads and laptops too. Some rooms benefit from being a bit old-fashioned.

Check them out here at Indiegogo.

App Review: 10% Happier

I pretty much suck at meditation. Honestly, I know I’m not supposed to admit to these things, but getting myself to sit on a cushion is sometimes like dragging a recalcitrant mule up a hill. This app was recommended to me by a yoga teacher friend of mine, and here’s why love it:

You can just do one minute.

That’s right. Just one minute. And anyone can do that, right?

Spearheaded by anchorman Dan Harris, 10% happier is that app that makes meditation accessible. I know there are a ton of apps out there for meditation, but I really love this app’s style. You start with a minute (and that’s really okay) and are given the opportunity to continue for more. When you hit one minute, you can stay for five. When you hit five minutes, you can stay for ten. But one minute is fine.

Featuring meditations by some wonderful teachers like Sharon Salzman and Joseph Goldstein (to name a few), you get a hit of a bunch of different meditation styles. The free version of the site has lots of options, or you can subscribe for $8/month to have access to more meditations and courses. Actual meditator act as “coaches” if you want to ping someone for help. The app can also track your meditation times and remind you meditate.

What are you waiting for? 1 minute only!

I wrote these guys and gushed at them about how much I like their app, and they sent me along a promo to share with YOU. 🙂

 

 

Product Review: Zenifit Yoga Mat Bag (and discount!)

I really like this new bag from Zenifit! If you’re looking for a sweet little bag that makes transporting your daily yoga mat a breeze, then this handy tote may be a great solution.

Now there are a million yoga mat bags out there, it’s true, but I’ve found most of them to be fairly cumbersome. Frankly, I never use a yoga bag because they’re not worth the trouble. You usually have to deal with stuffing the mat into a tube like device and then zipping it all up, or threading your mat through a special pocket that makes carrying the bag all weird. In some bags, the mat winds up sitting horizontally rather than vertically, and I wind up knocking over plants when I walk by.

What I really like about this bag is that it makes everything so easy. You just stick your mat in the bag. Voila. Done. Because the sides of the bag are nice and high, the mat doesn’t tumble out or create an awkward weight issue. Having your mat in a tote may seem like a big no brainer, but I don’t see many mat bags out there that are doing this. And there’s still enough room in the bag to hold other important stuff, like your water bottle and your change of clothes. An outer pocket with a zippered compartment can keep hold your valuables, like your phone and credit cards. Nice wide straps make it easy on the shoulder to carry.

Now, I use a Manduka Pro Mat, which is very heavy. At the time of this blog posting, I am travelling to my sister’s, so I have my lighter travel mat with me rather than my Manduka. However, I still wanted to get a feel for whether or not this bag could accommodate a larger and heavier mat. To test it out, I rolled up three lighter mats together. And you know what? They fit in the bag, no problem.

The pro’s

  • Easy to use, just stick your mat in there!
  • Nicely weighted
  • Feels good on the shoulder
  • Roomy enough to hold water and extra clothes
  • Made from cotton, ahhhh, natural and durable
  • Sweetly pretty. The black color will wear well, and the embroidery and color accents (choose green or purple) adds a pretty touch.

The con’s

  • The embroidery and sac-shape may feel a bit “hippy” for yogis who love fashion with a sleek line.
  • Won’t fit a mat more than 1/2″ in thickness. If you use a very fluffy mat, do a quick measure test before you buy.
  • No shipping to Canada yet, folks.

All in all, I really like this bag and will use it for casual trips to the studio. I can also see leaving my mat at home and simply wearing this bag around to hop on over to the beach or the grocery 🙂 Nicely done! Check it out on Amazon.

First ten lovely readers a get 20% discount. Discount code: RSCOTT20

Best yoga pants

Alright alright, I know that everyone out there has an article about the best yoga pants. So I’m going to weigh in and also provide a couple of links to some reviews that are out there.

First of all, let me say that I am not a fashion horse. I have been known to practice yoga in jeans and my sweaties and don’t really care what I’m wearing as long as I can move and don’t chafe. That said, not all products are created equal. And when I teach, it’s helpful to look like I didn’t just roll out of bed.

Lululemon is top dog for a very good reason. Great fabrics, good fit, nice detailing, and the clothes endure (in my experience). And I’m the jerk that puts them all in the dryer, too. I know that Lulu gear can get expensive, but I think it’s worth the price tag. Lulu also does pockets really well, which is not to be underestimated. Since I occasionally jog and work out in my yoga pants (in those activities, I am a bit more fussy about fit and fabrics), I really appreciate Lulu’s passion for being user-friendly and functional.

While Lulu is excellent standard wear, they don’t do crazy fun designs. For simple beauty, my favorite pants are made by the folks at Dharma Bums. Their designs are stunning and unique. Despite my personal lack of fashion sense, I get compliments on these pants every time I wear them because they’re so darn cute. But more importantly, Dharma Bums fit really well and the fabric is excellent. It’s soft, light, and durable. Great for practicing yoga and works just fine for a light sweat.

Get a discount! 20% off Dharma Bums. Use the promo code: RACHEL20 at checkout!

So: my two product go to’s? Lululemon and Dharma Bums. Both great for different reasons.

Here’s some more reviews of yoga pants.

Also, a quick caveat. Although I don’t wear shoes when I’m doing yoga, some people actually really like to have something on their feet when they practice, either because their feet get super sweaty or because they’re practicing sans mat. If you’re looking to investigate what you should put on your feet when you practice, check out more on this from the folks at Nicer Shoes. They did a little recon for you!