Gritty Yoga Basics and the Seeds of Simplicity - How to Clean Your Yoga Mat

While breathing the ‘essential breath’ and returning to our natural
rhythms is key to our journey of self-knowledge and vibrant good health,
we need not ignore or turn away from the mundane and often gritty
aspects of our basic selves. There can evolve a pleasant rhythm to the
maintenance activities in life. There is beauty in simplicity. By becoming
mindful and aware in the present moment the most humble task has the
possibility to become a meditation, dance or prayer. If the eye is clear,
said Jesus, our body will be filled with light. When our attention is
receptive and accepting, all that we see may become a source of
teaching.

According to Kabir, the 15th century Indian poet, (a favorite of mine)

“When the eyes and ears are open, even the leaves on
the trees teach like pages from the scriptures.”

Every act or task we perform with mindfulness and care may plant a
seed of awakening. The Buddhists say that even chopping wood and
carrying water can lead us to healing and joy if we bring to them our
absolute full and loving attention. As Mother Teresa said, “We do no
great thing. We do only small things with great love.”

Yet, at times the seemingly simplest of things can become complicated.
Like when it’s time to wash your yoga mat. Can your love for your
practice and hope for a sweet-smelling prop, win over the fear of
wrecking your cool mat?

Can you wash your yoga mat, and if so, how? What is the best way
to do it?

The first thing to consider is what type of mat you have. Is it a
standard synthetic yoga mat or one of the newer, all-natural rubber
mats? Is your mat a padded exercise mat with a foam core? Follow
manufacturer’s directions if at all possible. If needed, follow theses
steps…

~ If your mat is lightly soiled,… use a spray bottle, damp
sponge or terry-cloth rag to apply a solution of 2 cups water, four drop
dishwashing soap and 1 teaspoon baking soda. Rub the soiled areas.
Next wipe the mat with clean water. Finish by rubbing with a dry terry-
cloth towel and hanging to air dry.

~ If your mat is heavily soiled,… submerge it in a solution
of warm water and a very small amount of mild detergent. Any soap
residue may cause the mat to become slippery during future use. Hand
wash mat thoroughly then rinse it in clean water. After squeezing out
excess water, lay the mat on a dry terry-cloth towel and roll them both up
together. Repeatedly step on the mat/towel roll to squeeze out even
more moisture. Finally, unroll mat and hang to air-dry.

***If you have a foam filled mat, do not submerge…repeat spray/wipe
method!

Namaste’

? 2005 Karen B. Cohen All Rights Reserved.

Karen B. Cohen C.L.C. RYT500 is a wellness coach and master yoga
instructor, writer and speaker residing in a college town in rural Virginia.
Karen leads people to their own limitless supply of creativity and vitality
so that they can express their talent and abilities fully in the world. She
incorporates her expertise in mind-body techniques to work with a wide
spectrum of clients. Karen provides seminars, workshops as well as
individual coaching and training nationally and internationally.

For more information go to KarenCohenYoga.blogspot.com
and RockbridgeCoaching.blogspot.com