Did you know that your yoga mat can do more than just lie around and smell? It can heal!

Let me take you on a journey - straight to Mysore, India, where we first discovered this herbal mat. It felt like Christmas when we touched the soft, yet slightly sticky surface that not only pampered our hands but also smelled wonderful. Immediately, we rolled out the mat to try a "downward dog." This is a great test to see if the mat is slip-resistant, especially in the Indian heat. Our "downward dog" paws stuck perfectly to the pleasant material while our noses took in the healing aromas. The secret of this amazing mat lies in the ancient technique of Ayurvastra.

In a fashion world full of synthetics and chemicals, Ayurvastra is a breath of fresh, herbal-scented hope. This tradition has its roots in the Rigveda - one of the oldest Hindu texts, rich in Ayurvedic knowledge. In ancient times, a Maharaja's clothing served not only as protection from the elements, but also as therapy.

Organic fabrics are soaked in herbal baths, dried in the shade and infused with natural herbs, becoming a cloak full of health-promoting elixirs. While this may seem like a thing of the past, many people support the revival of Ayurvastra because the skin, the body's largest organ, has the ability to absorb herbs through contact with clothing. When the fabric is worn, microcapsules of herbs and oils gradually release their benefits in response to body heat, providing cosmetic or therapeutic effects. When I delved into the origins of this extraordinary technique, I was amazed. How could something as simple as a mat have such a profound impact on our health?

The concept of Ayurvastra was revived through a project presented to the Government of Kerala by the Kerala Weavers' Society and further developed by the Ayurvedic University of Kerala. Since 1992, the Weavers' Society has been refining Ayurvastra techniques to make organic fabrics suitable for modern use, creating different colors depending on the plants and herbs used and offering a variety of health benefits.

How is an Ayurvastra mat made? The production process of Ayurvastra fabrics is incredibly meticulous. Organic cotton is bleached using cow urine, which has high medicinal value. Many Ayurvedic doctors believe that cow urine is extremely beneficial in balancing the "doshas" - the basic elements of an individual's physiology and psychology - strengthening the immune system and acting as a life-giving elixir. The cotton is then soaked in dye solutions containing special herbal blends that help treat specific ailments. The fabric is dried in the shade. To achieve softness, the threads are coated with coconut or castor oil. After some time, the oil is washed off with water, and the mat goes through another drying process.

Why should you invest in an Ayurvastra herbal mat?

• Infused with healing herbs, these mats support your well-being and health;
• They are 100% organic and their scent will transport you straight to a garden full of fresh herbs;
• Extremely comfortable for yoga practice, non-slip;
• They are lightweight and ideal for any trip;
• Your purchase supports local manufacturers in Kerala, India;
• The mats are easy to clean;
• Safe for children and allergy sufferers.

Ayurvastra is more than just a dyeing technique - it is ancient knowledge that is returning to enrich our modern lives. In a world full of synthetics, it is worth thinking about how to restore the balance between nature and our everyday choices, like clothing or a yoga mat. By purchasing a mat, you can support local weaving in Kerala and the planet.

What do you think – would you wear clothes that support your health? Let us know in the comments – I'm curious to hear your thoughts!

Finally , may your mat not only keep you stable during challenging asanas, but also promote your health. Namaste!