Manduka-holic: All Geared Up and Ready to Go!
I’m ashamed to say that I’m your standard American consumer and I just can’t help myself when it comes to good gear. That said, I’m also extremely loyal to a brand when I like the products and the company’s ethics. So! I’m officially a Manduka-holic. I’m not ashamed and I refuse any step programs you might feel like suggesting. I’m hooked and I’m proud!
It all began with that momentous occasion when I purchased the PROlite at Jiva. I was sold on yoga and knew that this was going to be a major part of my day from here out. Investing in a good mat (like I mentioned before) was crucial to protect my shoddy knees and hip issues. Figure if you’re going to spend several hours atop this mat each week, it’s probably not a bad idea that it be worth that kind of attention. So ownership is perhaps a little more like obsession these days - if I could I would sleep on it…. I’ll report back if I ever do try that. I actually ended up not being able to take it with me over the 4th of July and felt like something was missing. This may not be healthy but man do I love my Manduka!
As for the other gear… practicing at home is going to be a necessity for financial reasons and once I’ve gained that confidence - it’s so on. Of course there are the initial costs of practicing at home, but once you’re all set with gear and a comfortable routine (or several) it’s worth it, right? That’s what I’m telling myself. Now while I prefer directly supporting company’s by buying through their websites, or supporting a yoga studio with shop purchases, there’s just no way I can afford full-priced Manduka gear (sorry Manduka people!). Amazon it is for now and maybe someday I’ll be able to shop from the source.
So I’m all set with my pimp PROlite, my beautiful bolster, a very handy/sturdy cork block, and a strap because I’m just not that bendy yet. Now here’s where the past meets the present: Mexicali Blues. That there blanket you see below has been in my life for about 10 years now and I’m convinced there’s “happy magic” in it. It has been the location of some of the best conversations and beach days I’ve ever had and has been shared as a spot to relax with some of the most important people in my life. It’s only appropriate that it’s now a part of my yoga practice.
