French Yoga Community

Many people practice yoga for its many benefits on the body and mind, but do not really know the origin or even the centuries-old history of yoga , dating back to before the 7th century BC. It is much more than postures and breathing exercises, it is a whole philosophy and wisdom hidden behind it, thanks to founding texts . Born in the cradle of India , yoga was later imported to the West to form the discipline that you know today with all the different types of yoga.

In search of the origins of yoga

Yoga, a word coming from the Sanskrit '' jug '' which translates to unite and connect , which means to harmonize the body and mind. This term is found in particular in the Rig-Veda (hymns of praise) from the 15th century BC . However, it did not designate the same thing as today.

Birth of yoga in India

Yoga first appeared in India, during Antiquity . It is first mentioned in the Upanishads (texts serving as the basis of the Hindu religion) around the 7th century BC. These writings transcribe experiences of meditation and breathing. Subsequently, the word yoga appears in several spiritual manuscripts, designating a practice uniting the mind with the body in order to be happier and more serene.

The emergence of the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

Between the 2nd century BC and the 5th century , the Yoga Sûtras written by Patanjali finally came to structure the discipline of yoga that you know today. These are the reference texts of the practice composed of 4 chapters and no less than 195 sutras . This is the true root of yoga ! The various forms of yoga are inspired by these writings as a basis, such as Hatha (around the 12th century) the oldest, Iyengar (in the 20th century), Kundalini and Yoga Nidra.

The practice of yoga spread in the West

From the 16th century onwards, more and more exchanges took place between the East and the West, thereby promoting the circulation of texts on yoga. However, it was in the 19th century that manuscripts began to be translated .

It was also during this period that the greats of yoga appeared: Ramakrishna, Vivekananda, Iyengar, Bikram Choudhury and Krishnamacharia who created a Hatha school in 1924 in India. This type of yoga was the first to be widespread in the West, following the Second World War. This is where new forms emerged: Ashtanga (in the 60s), Iyengar (in the 70s), Bikram (around the 80s), Yin yoga (arrived around the 90s), Vinyasa , etc.

Today, yoga is accessible to the general public and is mostly considered a gentle medicine in its own right, in particular to find emotional and physical harmony . A practice that is mixed with a true art of living on a daily basis.

Want to learn about the oldest form of yoga? Check out the Hatha Yoga article on the blog.

Meditation ... a word coming from the Latin ''meditare'' meaning ''to contemplate''. Meditation is much more than a fad. It is a real mental and spiritual practice to promote letting go by calming thoughts and therefore being at inner peace, but also to achieve spiritual awakening to fully realize oneself. In some religions such as Buddhism and Hinduism, meditation is a fundamental element. In this article, you will discover everything you need to know about this approach: from the origin to the benefits of meditation and some techniques.

What is the origin of meditation?

The art of meditation is an approach that is about 4000 years old. Frescoes of people in meditation positions have been found in Indian caves. However, the first written evidence dates back to 500 BC. Subsequently, you can observe various currents depending on each religion. On the one hand, Buddha who achieved enlightenment through meditation under the "Bodhi tree" and who transmitted it in the Buddhist religion. On the other hand, for Hinduism, meditation finds its origin in the Yoga Sûtras of Patanjali in the 2nd century BC. Finally, the practice of meditation has undergone a "Westernization" to be spread in many countries.

How is the art of meditation practiced?

Meditation requires practice . Don't worry if you don't get it right at first or get tired quickly. That's completely normal! First, start with a few minutes. There are also various meditation techniques that will help you feel more comfortable. The most important thing is to listen to yourself. But generally speaking, once you've settled in comfortably, your attention is focused on your body, your environment, a thought, your emotions, etc.

Mindfulness meditation

This is the most well-known meditation technique . I find it to be the easiest approach and perfect for those who think too much. You are simply focused on the present moment: what is happening inside you (like your breathing or your emotions) and around you (noises for example). What for? By practicing mindfulness meditation regularly, you will be more often in the present moment, in your daily life. You will live your life more consciously without leaving too much room for your negative inner speech.

Active meditation

Are you one of those who can't stay still for more than 2 minutes? Then opt for active meditation at the end of the day. You meditate while dancing, etc. in short, you will be in motion. Listen to what your body wants to do without controlling yourself and without giving way to the mind.

Transcendental Meditation

In transcendental meditation , you will focus your attention on reciting a mantra to control your thoughts, especially negative ones. This practice lasts about 20 minutes.

What are the benefits of meditation?

Meditation is a concentrate of incredible benefits for the body, mind and spirit:

• Soothe negative thoughts,
• Being in the present moment,
• Relax,
• Be more positive,
• Improve concentration,
• Increase creativity,
• Help to have better health,
• Allow for greater self-confidence,
• Develop intuition.

What equipment for meditation?

Please note that you can meditate without the need to use any equipment. However, I advise you to opt for meditation accessories for a more enjoyable practice.

• The meditation cushion : by far the most useful of all. Indeed, this practice requires being seated comfortably. There are meditation cushions of various shapes depending on your preferences: round, rectangle, heart, moon,
• The meditation blanket : this meditation object allows you to cover yourself in order to be more comfortable and not to be cold,
• The mala: it is an accessory resembling a pearl necklace. The difference is that it is useful for reciting mantras, especially during transcendental meditation . One pearl corresponds to one sung mantra,
• Meditation eye pads : a great way to immerse yourself in darkness to help you relax more easily,
• The candle: some people prefer to calm their mind by concentrating on the flame of the candle.

Do you want to start meditating? The Tayronalife store offers meditation accessories .

At 24, the beautiful experiences of his life led him to rethink a promising professional career to pursue an inner journey.
Life-changing experiences and encounters during his travels in India and Southeast Asia allowed him to realize that his life is about sharing and helping all the beautiful souls who cross his path.

In India, Yoga means union. Jan likes to think that you can achieve the union of your mind, body and soul through an infinite number of ways and practices. With this in mind, he offers private sessions of Classical Hatha Yoga suitable for everyone with different techniques from around the world from Tantra, Sufism, Naturopathy, Buddhist meditation, Osho and many more.

He also created, with no one's help, HOPE STUDIO, a non-profit association based in Monaco.

It was only natural that I asked him a few personal questions about his yoga practice, which I am sharing with you today.

How did you get into taking care of yourself?

After an illness and a long depression, I went to Rishikesh where I was able to undertake a Panchakarma healing. And where I had the chance to traverse trails with my guides, who helped me realize my divine essence and helped me start my spiritual journey.

What practice for your well-being?

I practice classical Hatha Yoga, Pranayama techniques, and Osho's dynamic meditation and mindfulness.

What is the ritual of your practice?

I have a morning gratitude ritual with a sun salutation and kriyas.

What do you get out of it?

Peace and unconditional love, Joy and Harmony, lightness and serenity

What do you carry in your yoga bag?

Seeds of love.

What is your favorite object/accessory?

Smiles.

What would be your advice for Tayrona Yoginis?

Enjoy life and spread love to the world.

Where/how do you practice?

Here and now with love.

What is your mantra/favourite phrase?

Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu: May all beings everywhere be happy and free

Here is the HOPE STUDIO Facebook page, if you want to find out more.

Ashtanga yoga is also called " Raja yoga ". It is a traditional form of dynamic yoga where postures follow one another at a sustained pace. This method combines the synchronization of breathing with a series of progressive asanas adapted according to the level of each person. This process increases your internal body heat, which allows for purification and elimination of toxins from your muscles and organs. It is an ideal form of yoga to refocus and calm your mind while exerting yourself.

What does “Ashtanga Yoga” mean?

Ashtanga Yoga comes from “ Ashta ” which means “Eight” and “ Anga ” which means “branches” (or limbs). As for the term “Yoga”, it means “union”. This brings us to this translation: “ The eight limbs of yoga ”.

The author of the Yoga Sutras, Patanjali , describes the different aspects of Yoga by comparing them to the branches of a tree. The eight branches of Yoga are:

• Yama (moral ethics)
• Niyama (self-ethics)
• Asana (posture)
• Pranayama (breath control)
• Pratyahara (control of the senses)
• Dharana (concentration)
• Dhyana (meditation)
• Samadhi (the state of joy and peace)

What is the origin of Ashtanga Yoga?

Ashtanga Yoga was originally taught in Mysore, India by the master Sri Krishna Pattabhi Jois . He opened his own school there, where many Westerners came to study. He also trained many Ashtanga teachers as well as his grandson. Later, in the 1960s, Ashtanga Yoga was exported to Western countries, mainly to the United States.

The main principles of Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga exercises aim to synchronize your breathing with the movements performed. Its particularity is the practice of a fixed sequence of postures, composed of 6 series . The first being the easiest to reproduce and the sixth the most demanding. The series are always identical and follow one another in a very specific order. The course can be guided or not depending on your level.

If we wanted to summarize the main principles of Ashtanga Yoga , it would consist of:

• A fixed sequence of positions composed of 6 series,
• A dynamic traditional yoga,
• A synchronization of breath and movements,
• A rather morning practice,
• A notion of gaze in asanas (drishti).

Who is Ashtanga Yoga for?

Ashtanga Yoga can be practiced by beginners , athletic people or not, whether you are flexible or not. The only difference will be the difficulty of the sequence to be performed. In this case, the easiest series will first be worked on in a guided class. There are also different classes depending on the level and intensity required. Of course, Ashtanga Yoga remains a dynamic yoga ! You must therefore be ready to sweat and chain the postures.

How does an Ashtanga Yoga class take place?

Ashtanga Yoga allows you to develop your concentration, your balance and your physical strength of course, but also your mental strength. During your class, you will be led to perform series, always the same and in a very specific order. In total, you will find 6 series whose difficulty is ascending. You must not mark stops between the different postures. The sequence must be fluid and for this you will use " transitions " (dynamic movements) which will connect the asanas.

Each position can be held for about 5 breaths . Breathing is done in " Ujjayi " (inhalation and exhalation only through the nose) which will warm up your entire body. A mantra at the beginning and end of the class can also be cited.

What is the ideal equipment for practicing Ashtanga Yoga?

For the practice of Ashtanga Yoga , you need a non-slip Yoga mat suitable for perspiration production in order to prevent you from slipping during your session.

The eco-friendly PROlite and MatPro Manduka yoga mats , guaranteed for life, are ideal for the practice of Ashtanga and will allow you better transitions rather than an ultra-adherent mat which can cause a slight blockage in the sequence.

You will also find some in natural rubber mixed with EcoYoga jute. The Ekolite mats or the Tree mat YogaMad will be less "slippery" in transitions. If you are looking for a floor mat that will help you in your alignment for the realization of your postures, the Align Liforme yoga mat will be ideal!

What are the benefits of Ashtanga Yoga?

The benefits of Ashtanga Yoga are numerous:

• An increase in body heat which allows for detoxification of the body,
• A sculpted silhouette,
• Increased concentration,
• Better breathing capacity,
• Smoother blood circulation,
• Better capacity of the heart muscle.

Discover an Ashtanga Yoga session

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z8In0I1WHFs

Discover all Ashtanga yoga mats on the Tayronalife store.

Vinyasa Yoga , also known as " flow yoga ", is called " dynamic ". In fact, it comes from Ashtanga Yoga and is composed of undefined series. The postures are in rhythm with the breathing and the transitions are fluid. The asanas are chosen by the yogis and you work one side of the body then the other in order to balance it. Breath and movement being intimately linked, this increases body temperature and allows, like all dynamic yogas, a detoxification of the body.

What does “Vinyasa Yoga” mean?

In Sanskrit, the term " vinyasa " is composed of " nyasa " which means "to place" and " vi " which means "in a specific way". This corresponds to the synchronization of movement with breathing and this is what creates dynamism.

What is the origin of Vinyasa Yoga?

Vinyasa yoga comes from Ashtanga yoga , which consists of performing a series of postures in a very specific order. The difference lies in the sequence. Indeed, Vinyasa is free and more creative, because it does not impose any sequence . The sequences are the result of the experience acquired by the teacher and are adaptable to the needs of each individual.

The main principles of Vinyasa Yoga

The main principles of Vinyasa are:

• A derivative of Ashtanga Yoga, less rigorous and more creative, where series are not imposed,
• A dynamic yoga, often with music,
• Postures that change regularly,
• A more accessible and less intimidating form of yoga,
• A unique and different course every time.

Who is Vinyasa Yoga for?

Vinyasa Yoga is a dynamic and rather physical yoga , it is aimed at people with an intermediate level of yoga . If you are a beginner, you can first sign up for a gentle yoga class like Hatha which will give you the basics. If you have good endurance, you can easily sign up directly for a Vinyasa session . It will also be perfect for people who want to tone up and who do not like routine.

How does a Vinyasa Yoga class take place?

Vinyasa yoga classes are not fixed and there is no mandatory framework to follow, which allows for great creativity. It is a dynamic and fluid yoga at the same time. The sessions will depend on your teacher, their energy, but also their observation of the needs of the group of students.

However, the course may be composed as follows:

• A warm-up starting with sun salutations ,
• A series of standing postures and a sequence of sitting positions , each connected by transitions ,
• A series of lying asanas ,
• A final relaxation .

What is the ideal equipment for practicing Vinyasa Yoga?

For your Vinyasa Yoga practice, you will need to invest in a good, quality, eco-friendly yoga mat .

The Mat PRO and PROlite Manduka yoga mats are ideal! If you only want to practice at home, the Mat Pro mat will be perfect, because it is slightly thicker, but heavier (not suitable for transport). On the other hand, if you want to take it to the studio, the PROlite Yoga mat keeps the same qualities as the Mat PRO , but is easier to transport. Both mats are guaranteed for life.

If you want a natural rubber mat, the EcoYoga Yoga mat mixed with jute may suit you or the Harmony Jade mat .

What are the benefits of Vinyasa Yoga?

Regarding the benefits of Vinyasa Yoga , you will find, as with other forms of Yoga, physical and mental virtues . Indeed, the heat will increase during the session allowing detoxification and the sequence of postures will tone and strengthen your body. On the mental level, your mind will learn to be more focused due to the synchronization of breathing with movements. This will help to let go and acquire better stress management.

Overall, regular practice of Vinyasa will allow you to:

• to improve your balance and sculpt your figure,
• to have better concentration,
• to improve your sleep,
• to increase your endurance and strength,
• to strengthen and stretch your deep muscles,
• to detoxify your body.

Discover a Vinyasa Yoga session

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VEFRtZX-f6I

If you would like to find out more about Ashtanga yoga , please read the corresponding article on the blog.

A former police officer on active duty in Paris for ten years, Aurélie Mo began her professional reconversion last September in order to devote herself to her studies as a naturopath and to deepening her practice of Yoga. Passionate about travel and eco-responsible road trips, she is a Vinyasa and Hatha Yoga Teacher. Recently she has traveled across Europe and Canada, to give Yoga classes and offer various workshops. She is currently looking to settle down after a year of traveling. She does not know where yet, but she is open to all opportunities that life puts in her path.

It was only natural that I asked him a few personal questions about his yoga practice, which I am sharing with you today.

How did you get into taking care of yourself?

Former teacher of Vovinam Viet Vo Dao (Vietnamese Martial Art), I learned very early to take care of my body and my mind.

I started Yoga five years ago. My daily grind pushed me towards a practice that could soothe me and complement martial arts.

This intrinsic desire to take care of my health resonates with years of working in a risky, stressful job serving others.

I started Yoga as an autodidact, following tutorials and videos on the Internet and reading books by BKS Iyengar and Swami Vishnudevananda. Finally, it was in Bali, Indonesia, and more precisely in the city of Ubud that I took my first real studio class. It was a trigger that was both physical and spiritual. Exactly like when you fall in love. I knew immediately that this was what would allow me to evolve towards what I was made for.

What practice for your well-being?

Yoga, more in the Vinyasa style, hiking in the great outdoors, climbing, snowboarding, bodyboarding and more generally thrilling sports practiced in the great outdoors.

What is the ritual of your practice?

It all starts as soon as I wake up, early if possible, around 6:00 in the morning at sunrise. I always start with a few moments of meditation even if it's just a few minutes, then I follow up with a Yoga session of about an hour including sun salutations, a series of asanas and Pranayama exercises.

What do you get out of it?

An immense inner peace and a lot of gratitude. Thanks to a daily practice, I am in the present moment. It is for me a way to recharge the batteries and to be connected to nature and to others.

What do you carry in your yoga bag?

Not much to tell the truth, my mat, water, or a lemon ginger honey infusion, a yoga brick, and a strap.

What is your favorite object/accessory?

I am a simple person, I don't really have a fetish object. However, from time to time, I wear my lotus seed mala bought in Thailand during my Yoga training: it sometimes serves me as a support during my meditation sessions.

What would be your advice for Tayrona Yoginis?

First of all, keep it simple! and as Oscar Wilde said "Be yourself, everyone else is already taken".

As for the rest I think that the secret of success is hidden in your daily routine. So I would advise yoginis to practice every day even if it is 15 minutes. And above all do not fall into the search for performance, in Yoga, the beauty of the posture is one thing, but be careful not to lose sight of the essential: to make the link between the body and the mind.

Where/how do you practice?

I am lucky to have a room dedicated to Yoga and well-being at home, which makes things a lot easier. If the weather is nice, I am outside, preferably in nature.

What is your mantra/favourite phrase?

Find Aurélie on Instagram and on her blog .

The meditation cushion can be filled with kapok or spelt husks. You can find it in different shapes: round, square or half-moon. A "standard" cushion will measure approximately 35 cm in diameter by 17 cm in height (the size changes depending on its format).

What is the meditation cushion used for?

During your yoga practice or during your meditation phases, it is not uncommon for you to be asked to hold the Lotus posture. The meditation cushion will help you hold your seat in a suitable and comfortable way. The zafu will therefore allow you to enjoy this moment of 100% relaxation, without thinking about your tingling legs, your back or your buttocks that hurt.

Obviously, as with your yoga mat, it is important to find a meditation accessory that is suited to your body shape and your requirements.

There are two main things to remember when choosing the right yoga cushion : size and filling.

The dimensions of the meditation cushion

Dimensions vary depending on your flexibility:

• If you are stiff/not very flexible, choose a rather high meditation cushion (minimum 16 cm thick),
• If you are not stiff, but not very flexible either, stay in average heights (between 12 and 16 cm),
• If you are flexible, you can move towards flatter yoga accessories (between 5 and 11 cm).

Please note that for each of these formats, you must always take your height into account. If you are tall, it is better to opt for z afus with more thickness in order to sit more comfortably.

The filling of the meditation cushion

As mentioned above, this yoga accessory can be made of kapok or spelt husks. Did you know? A kapok cushion will be softer than a spelt husk cushion , which will be much firmer.

Some examples of asanas with a meditation cushion

• Lotus Pose
• Asana Seiza
• Burmese Position

How to take care of your meditation cushion?

Preferably choose a meditation cushion with a removable cover so that you can machine wash it at 30°C easily and without damaging it.

Meditation cushions available in the shop

1. TAYRONA Heart Meditation Cushion

Weight: 1.5 kg

Dimensions: 45cm x 33cm x 15cm

The Tayrona heart meditation cushion is made with 100% cotton for a very solid yoga accessory . This zafu is filled with spelt husks for maximum stability during your meditation. Equipped with a handle, it is therefore easily transportable everywhere with you. Please note, non-removable cover. Available in burgundy, blue, black, eggplant, olive green, purple and orange.

Discover the Tayrona heart meditation cushion

2. RondoTAYRONA Standard Meditation Cushion

Weight: 1.4 kg

Dimensions: 28 cm diameter x 17 cm height

This meditation accessory is filled with kapok and made in India. Its cotton cover is removable for easy machine cleaning. A comfortable yet firm zafu for periods of prolonged meditation. Available in black, burgundy, aubergine and dark blue.

Discover the Tayrona standard meditation cushion

3. TAYRONA Flat Meditation Cushion

Weight: 1.5 kg

Dimensions: 35 cm x 13 cm

The Tayrona meditation cushion is made in India with spelt husk filling. Its zipper allows you to remove/add spelt to this meditation accessory in order to adapt the height and support to each person's body. It has a removable cotton cover, machine washable. A comfortable, yet firm zafu for periods of prolonged meditation. Available in black, burgundy, aubergine, olive green and blue.

Discover the Tayrona flat meditation cushion

OEKO-TEX CERTIFIED PVC/FOAM YOGA MATS

PVC, a very comfortable, non-slip and lightweight material, has the advantage of being inexpensive. In addition to this, yoga mats made from this material are solid and easy to maintain. Choose good quality material to avoid it crumbling and having to buy a new one.

Are you allergic to natural rubber? Don't panic, these mats are a perfect replacement for them, as they are free of it.

As there has to be a "but" and it is the only one, PVC yoga mats are not very ecological (this is not the case for those sold on Tayronalife) and especially low-end and cheap mats. Why? Simply, they are not biodegradable, nor even recyclable, releasing harmful substances when incinerated.

PVC is often made of toxic and environmentally polluting chemicals (plasticizers and AZO dyes) for the sole purpose of being antibacterial and antifungal. However, standards and the improvement of increasingly regulated working conditions are helping to overcome this.

DO YOU STILL WANT TO BUY A PVC YOGA MAT?

Don't be afraid! For every problem, there is a solution. Opt for Oeko-Tex® standard 100 certified PVC yoga mats, also called eco-friendly foam mats, such as those in the Prolite series from Manduka, available in various thicknesses/cushions (3 to 6 mm) . A little explanation. Quite simply, because they are made using materials that are less harmful to the environment and your health, but they are also recyclable.

What more can we say? That their surface structure ensures better resistance against slipping, but also a longer life even with dynamic yoga postures. A perfect mat for Ashtanga yoga, Bikram, Vinyasa yoga and Hot yoga. For this, we recommend the Mat Pro Manduka range , the best of the best yoga mats, because it is guaranteed for life. But, it is also suitable for gentle yoga: Nidra yoga, Hatha yoga, Yin.

Is the appearance of your yoga mat important to you? Some are very aesthetic, such as the Gaiam Tree of Life yoga mat with a beautiful tree design to inspire calm and serenity.

The yoga mats on Tayronalife have been carefully selected to offer only quality PVC material, tested and eco-responsible, certified Oeko-Tex® standard 100: Manduka, Tayrona, Gaiam brands.

PVC yoga mat models are increasingly giving way to those made from more environmentally friendly materials: natural rubber and TPE .

Discover the collection

In love with the body in movement, after practicing martial arts for 10 years, Fiona Iménéo discovered Yoga 9 years ago.

She has been teaching Vinyasa flow for 3 years (recently trained in the De Gasquet pre and post natal method as well). She divides her time between her job as a nurse and teaching yoga.

It was only natural that I asked him a few personal questions about his yoga practice, which I am sharing with you today.

How did you get into taking care of yourself?

I was tortured for a long time, hating my body and subjecting it to drastic diets among other things. I decided to take care of myself the day I moved from my hometown to continue my studies at 20 years old, in a new universe, during a difficult period of my life, I decided to push open the door of a yoga studio ... the magic happened and the rest followed ... 9 years of diligent practice have gradually reconciled me with my body and my mind. Today I have learned to listen to my body's messages and to respond to it correctly.

What practice for your well-being?

Yoga of course, today between teaching and my job as a nurse it is more complicated to practice as much but I keep a place for my personal practice even if it is just 30 minutes a day. I am very sporty, I run to let off steam, I do crossfit with my lover to push my limits. Each of my practices brings me something different and I love it.

What is the ritual of your practice?

My big ritual is the morning one, an Ayurvedic ritual. I practice “Nauli” abdominal mixing, Gandush (tongue cleaning), I drink an infusion and I practice at least one inversion, if I have time a few Surya Namaskar <3 and more if affinities :)

What do you get out of it?

A feeling of being embodied in my body to start the day. Being in the present moment, even if it's complicated to make this state last all day, I have my own moment to feel my body and circulate my energy. No matter the time in fact, sometimes drinking a coffee in good company is the most useful ritual for someone, even if it's short.

What do you carry in your yoga bag?

Always drinking, I hydrate myself a lot (of Pitta constitution (fire) I really need water to balance myself). In the summer I drink liters of coconut water or aloe vera juice. Always an outfit where I feel good (and pretty if possible). I think it's important to like the outfit you wear to practice (I have the choice because I am an Ambassador of the E-Shop BEM store which sells brands that I love), feeling good in your body during practice also involves the comfort of your outfit. And then it's also a way to express your tastes and creativity. Finally! an elastic because I have very very long hair :) and my favorite Yoga mat, I've had the same one for years and I love it.

What is your favorite object/accessory?

essential oil, a mixture from the Tégarome brand that I put on my wrists before practicing or to massage my students in Savasana.

What would be your advice for Tayrona Yoginis?

Practice as long as possible without a goal. I practiced for years without knowing why. Just because it was magical what I felt. I traveled through the practices, with different teachers, in different cities, countries… and that's where the magic enters us. When it can do what it wants, and not serve our “goals”.

Where/how do you practice?

I practice as much as possible in courses and workshops of other teachers whose teaching inspires me. But since I have been teaching I have developed a deeper personal practice that has become a real need. I practice most often in my living room, I start my playlist and off I go...

What is your mantra/favourite phrase?

Find Fiona on her Instagram and Facebook networks. You can also visit her website .

The yoga blanket is made of recycled cotton or wool. It measures approximately 2 m long by 1.20 m wide.

What is the yoga blanket used for?

At first glance, you may wonder about the usefulness of a yoga blanket during practice. But what can it possibly be used for?

Usually, at the end of a gentle yoga session, your teacher will ask you to do a moment of meditation . This is where this yoga textile comes into play, because during these tens of minutes of relaxation your body cools down and therefore needs to be covered.

This yoga accessory , present at the beginning or end of the class, during meditation or rest phases, can have several functions:

• You can wrap yourself up during Pranayama and cover yourself during Savasana to keep warm,
• The yoga blanket has the possibility of being used as a cushion for the meditation phase,
• If folded in four, it can be used as a support when performing several postures such as Sālamba Sarvāngāsana or Halāsana ,
• And finally, when folded, it becomes a support during forward stretching positions or twists.

Ideally, it is recommended to have three yoga blankets with you during practice so that the body is properly supported during the postures.

Some examples of asanas with a yoga blanket

• Asana Adho Mukha Virsana
• Halasana Posture
• Salamba Sarvangasana Position

How to take care of your yoga blanket?

Since yoga blankets are most often made of cotton or recycled wool, you can simply machine wash them at 30°C. Be careful to check the label before washing.

Yoga blankets available in the store

MANDUKA Recycled Wool Yoga Blanket - €44

• Weight : 1.6 kg
• Dimensions : 208 cm x 152 cm

Discover the recycled wool yoga blanket

TAYRONA cotton yoga blanket - €27

• Weight : 1.5 kg
• Dimensions : 150 cm x 200 cm

This Tayrona yoga blanket made of 100% cotton is sturdy. It is perfectly suitable for the following uses:

• Cover up during rest phases,
• As an extra non-slip layer on your yoga mat,
• Wrapped and placed under the shoulders, this yoga object is an excellent accessory for performing the candle posture,
• As a cushion for Pranayama (meditation phase).

Discover the cotton yoga blanket

MANDUKA recycled cotton blanket - €40

• Dimensions : 165 cm x 210 cm

A yoga accessory made with 52.5% Peruvian recycled cotton, 35% recycled acrylic and 12.5% ​​polyester. A high quality yoga blanket that does not pill and is resistant to multiple washes. Topstitching prevents fraying. Manduka uses recycled, organic and/or plant-based materials because they are more environmentally friendly and comforting for your body. Available in thunder (Grey) and new Moon (Blue).

Discover the recycled cotton yoga blanket

Maud studies and practices in Paris and the United States .
Measuring every day, as she teaches, the benefits of yoga on the body and mind, she decides to train in yoga therapy. It is a holistic method located at the meeting point between modern medicines and the ancestral traditional discipline that is yoga. This approach offers us the possibility of becoming actors and responsible for our health again.

The yoga that Maud teaches invites everyone to listen to themselves, to go and meet themselves. The practice of yoga is for her a tool to reconnect with our deep nature.

It was only natural that I asked him a few personal questions about his yoga practice, which I am sharing with you today.

How did you get into taking care of yourself?

A yoga class in the United States was a real revelation and initiated a profound transformation in me. It allowed me to glimpse that I was not only this limited body and intellect. Perceiving, without yet understanding, this dimension that was until then unknown to me touched me to the depths of my being…

What practice for your well-being?

Yoga in its many facets. Bhakti, Hatha, Karma, Jnana …

What is the ritual of your practice?

I light a candle on my little altar, chant a few mantras, then enter into my practice of postures, pranayamas and meditation…

What do you get out of it?

I find my axis again… Not every time, but often… And so I contact more and more inner peace, even when outside, life shakes hard! I try to transmit from this space of authenticity.

What do you carry in your yoga bag?

My mat! The less stuff I have, the better I feel! But for my practice, a good mat is still essential!

What is your favorite object/accessory?

My mala, charged with the energy of my mantra. It accompanies me everywhere, if it is not around my neck, it is in my bag.

What would be your advice for Tayrona Yoginis?

What is the source of much fatigue and pain lies in resistance to what IS! Listening to yourself, accepting and loving what we are in this moment, is for me a big part of the journey. And it can start on your yoga mat!

Where/how do you practice?

I practice at home facing the window, with my cat slaloming between my feet in downward dog and eventually purring on my lap during my meditation.

What is your mantra/favourite phrase?

An eco-friendly yoga mat that respects health, nature and humans.

Today, the notion of eco-responsibility is increasingly present in people's minds. It is about respecting the environment and others. In the practice of yoga, it is even more important. Why? This discipline is a connection to the world, to others, but also to nature. So, on the same note, buying an eco-responsible yoga mat is the best solution. However, be aware that there is no such thing as an organic mat. Finally, various brands offer quality eco-friendly yoga mats such as Manduka, Jade, Eco-Yoga, Mad-Yoga, Gaiam, Yuj, Anadeo, etc. In this article, you will discover what an eco-friendly yoga mat is.

Stop Chemicals in Natural Yoga Mat

Many floor mats are made with chemicals that are toxic to your health. I want to mention plasticizers and other AZO dyes. In contrast, eco-friendly floor mats are designed with natural eco-friendly materials such as TPE (thermoplastic elastomer), eco-friendly foam (rubber), jute, organic cotton and eco-friendly PVC (Oeko-Tex certified). They are safe for your health. Be careful, however, not to be allergic to any of these components, especially latex.

A sustainable natural material yoga mat, please

Eco-friendly yoga mats may seem more expensive to you. This is mainly due to the fact that they are made of natural, ecological and sustainable materials. These floor mats are also of better quality. In short, all this to tell you that your eco-friendly mat will accompany you for several years, or even your whole life if you practice occasionally. A big investment, yes, but only once!

Recyclable eco-friendly yoga mats

Natural yoga mat means floor mat made of recyclable and biodegradable material. Not only will you keep your yoga equipment for several years, because it is durable, but also when you throw it away, it will not create toxic and polluting waste for the planet. What could be better?

Ethical production of your ecological floor mat

An eco-responsible purchase is not only looking at the material and whether it is safe for the environment, it is also considering the manufacturing process of the natural material yoga mat . The latter must be sustainable and respectful of workers so that it is fairer and more equitable for them. For example, avoiding the deforestation of the Amazon forests or supporting local economies in developing countries. Currently, standards have been strengthened and working conditions improved, which guarantees better production that is kind to the planet and people. Are you lost in the middle of all these natural floor mats ?

Find out how to choose an eco-responsible yoga mat based on 5 criteria: your type of practice, the material, the format, maintenance and eco-responsibility.