I have to confess even more of a vested interest in this piece than most on my humble corner of StyleNest.
Having started yoga some time over two years ago, and developed a pretty solid vinyasa and yin practice since I am, like many converts, inevitably something of an evangelist.
There is no doubt that a first yoga class is light years away from most comfort zones (including mine), but as with so much else the thought of it is much worse than the massively rewarding reality.
Since then, I have been enormously indebted to the amazing teachers, and fellow yogis I share classes with for the wisdom, empathy, kindness and fun they have imparted, and which I try at east partially to replicate at home when not at class.
There are always reasons we can find not to do things; one of the most popular for yoga seems to be that one is too inflexible for it, which seems similar to saying one is too thirsty to want a drink. Put simply, we all discover that we are terrible at some parts from the off, decent at others, and that none of it matters in the slightest to your practice.
What follows are some of the nicest kit and accessories for your burgeoning practice, the vast majority of which I own and use myself (not that I am remotely any great expert, but I do know nice kit).
Of course yoga isn’t contingent on rampant consumerism, fancy materials and state of the art accessories, but it also isn’t the sole domain of bindis, hemp trousers and any other tired cliche you can think of; rather it is a vital, inspirational, perpetual tool for your health and happiness.
Be you a committed yogi, a novice or one balancing classes and home practice I can only stress the myriad holistic, tangible benefits of finding time to visit the mat, whatever your kit.
Designed by yogis for yogis, and judging by the number of converts Liforme garner as good as it gets.
Super comfortable and non-slip, with markings for your hands and feet, this is an investment well worth making. I find this particularly useful to gently persuade me to commit to warrior poses and the like with ease at home thanks to the innovative design.
Now with a travel version, both come with a custom mat bag, tips and hints galore, and are the perfect home for your practice day in, day out.
Launched in October this year, Ohmme have gone about things the right way.
That means mens’ yoga wear that is supremely functional and stylish, using ethically sourced technical fabrics and made in the EU.
In this instance that’s quick dry fabric which can be worn 3/4 for poses, or full leg.
These are so lovely I have to confess that I have yet to wear mine to a class, but they are almost definitely the most comfortable trousers I have ever worn, from a great, ethical company with bright future.
The best block I’ve used by some way; simple as that. Manduka, in keeping with everyone else here, make excellent yoga kit with passion and integrity, and this will last for many a year.
Slightly larger than a regular block, the sustainable cork feels lovely with softer edges, and is super supportive and sturdy for vinyasa, yin and more- it’s an absolute must for supported bridge pose.
€18.00
LULULEMON METAL VENT TECH SHORT SLEEVE 2.0 T-SHIRT
Lululemon has become for many a symbol of the globalisation of yoga as a lifestyle.
What is undoubtedly true is that they make amazing, long-lasting yoga equipment, and are committed to engaging and collaborating with the community at the heart of the culture with passion.
Meantime you can pitch up to class in an aces T-shirt which wicks sweat like there’s no tomorrow, stretches better than you can and dries quicker to boot. Silverescent® technology, powered by X-STATIC®, inhibits the growth of odour-causing bacteria on the shirt, belying the effort you just put in on the mat.
A well made mat towel is an enormous asset, particularly should you try hot classes.
I alternate between using this on top of my mat, or simply having to hand for when (almost invariably) a towel is required in regular class. Fits the mat perfectly, with a quick drying microfibre material and great feel, and comes up perfect every time from a brand committed to wellness and sustainability.
£22.99
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