Yoga mats are a useful accessory to have

Yoga mats enhance the practice of yoga. They not only define the space that is exclusively yours for the purpose of doing Yoga but also provide a comfortable resting position for the body.

There are some points that you should keep in mind while choosing the yoga mat. These are:

- The mat should be comfortable whether you are sitting, standing or lying down.

- The mat should be long and wide enough to accommodate our full body.

- The mat should be made of a fabric that does not slip and provides you with the required balance and stability. Cotton (with socks) and leather (without socks) are two viable options.

- The mat should also be composed of a fabric that absorbs a certain percentage of perspiration so that you are comfortable for a longer time.

- Finally, the mat should be exclusively yours to use, easy to maintain and if possible, easily transportable.

You can opt for a yoga mat that best suits the kind of yoga you seek to perform. Some of the types that you can choose from include:

1. The Sticky Mat is a good option for those practicing power yoga, as this requires a great deal of stretching, bending and sliding. With a sticky mat you have the flexibility to flow into various postures without slipping or losing your balance. These mats are quite thin and stay in place as you practice your fast-paced 'asanas'.

2. Another variation of the sticky mat is the Ultra Double Thickness Mat, which, as the name suggests is a double padded, thick mat that provides you with a cushioning effect. This mat is perhaps the most comfortable of all, but due to its fabric and size, it is inconvenient to carry around. Mostly these mats are found in Group Yoga classes and are recommended for those who have weak knees, elbows or back.

3. A third option available for the globetrotter is the Travel Mat. These mats are extremely thin and easily foldable so they can fit easily into any small corner of your suitcase. It must be mentioned though that these mats are not recommended for prolonged use as they are not too comfortable.

4. The most popular yoga mat option remains the Cotton Mat. Cotton fabric has the cooling and absorption quality, and hence mats made from cotton soak up a large percentage of perspiration. With these mats you can prolong your Yoga sessions with little or no discomfort.

5. Finally, for those who have turned to Yoga to enhance their breathing through meditation, there are the Meditation Mats. These mats come along with a pillow to offer you added comfort when you are trying to get into a relaxed, meditative mood.