Vastra Ayurvedic Yoga Mat---Organic, Chemical-free, Handmade from Cotton & Jute- Dyed with plants/herbs from Ayurveda , All- Natural, Health-Conscious ,Travel-Friendly

I wanted to find a natural alternative to typical yoga mats, so that I could cut out the harmful chemicals but still have a mat for studios or dirty floors. I had also been practicing on bare wooden floors for a while since I found it easier than using a rubber mat. This mat went way beyond my expectations and I'd buy it again.When I first took the mat out, it had a strong plant smell to it from the dyes. Some people noted in the questions that it smelled like mold, but my guess is the smell is from turmeric to get the gold color, because it smelled pretty close to the turmeric I cook with. I'm 6 ft. tall and I still have length to spare, which is a nice change from typical mats. Even though it's long, it's thin enough that it folds up nicely, is light, and not bulky at all. It has rubber threading on the bottom to prevent it from slipping on the floor. I haven't noticed it bunching up or slipping any more than a typical rubber mat does. In fact, when it does bunch a little bit, I still find it easier to keep my balance on the thin fabric than a piece of bunching/bouncy rubber. The woven ridges at the ends are perfectly placed for hands and feet to help prevent them from sliding. I was worried that would be an issue, but it hasn't been.

I adore this mat for my daily yoga. It smells earthy and wonderful, like sweet grass and mild patchouli. Not super strong. There are times when the pleasant smell keeps me focused.It's fairly soft, but still has excellent traction. Slipping has not been a problem for me. The thicker lines of fiber at both ends not only provide extra traction, they help me with alignment. I do yoga on a carpeted surface, so can't speak about the mat's suitability on wooden floors. I'm very happy with my mat!

I feel bad being a downer on such a well meaning product, however this mat just doesn't function very well for me. On a smooth surface the mat slides around unless you have a second layer underneath. The finish is a little itchy, not like other cotton mats I've used, possibly b/c of the added juke. The mats are rustic in shape, not entirely straight or square.I will say the mat is beautiful, I didn't have much trouble with grip, and of course the company is attempting something worthwhile.I would only recommend this mat if you are so excited about what the company is attempting that you are able to overlook the distractions this mat may bring to your practice.

Update on July 13, 2016I do still love the natural fibers and feel of this mat; however, it is not a good mat for hot yoga due to the service of the mat not being that grippy. I have a hard time going through the moves during my yoga session, so I have started using a different mat. I do still have this one and use it for exercises that do not require the same movements as yoga. If you use no-slip socks and gloves, you would probably be okay using this mat. Or if you use a yoga towel to give yourself more of a grippy service.I recently purchased this mat, to use during my yoga sessions at home and in studio. I love the feel and smell of the mat! When doing my exercises at home, it works perfectly when I am inside my house or outside in the grass. It is a thin, so when I go to my in studio yoga sessions I always take another mat to put underneath it to provide a little more cushioning (since they have a concrete floor). You could probably use a yoga towel as well, but I decided to go with a mat. But for me the fact that it is organic, all natural materials was a big selling point. There aren't many mats out there like this one. I don't like the feel of plastic or rubber, which is why I love this mat. It provides a good grip for me. Only one time did I have a slight slip during a pose, but was able to get grounded again and didn't have any further problems. If you are looking for a completely natural mat, I would suggest this one. The only reason I didn't give it a 5 star rating was the thinness of the mat.

I highly recommend this yoga mat! I have 3 Manduka's and 2 Jade's. This one by far feels the best. It is toxin free , made from organic cotton , Jute, and is infused w herbs. It has some natural rubber which doesn't smell on the underside for grip, It feels great to the touch, smells wonderful and performs very well with just enough cushion. I have no problem with itchiness as one reviewer stated. The fabric feels amazing on your skin! Bye bye Manduka and Jade!

This is an awesome yoga mat! It's very soft and smells like fresh hay. It feels wonderful against my skin and it's a pleasure just to be on it. It's thin but you could put another mat under it if you need extra cushion. There are subtle ridges woven into either end so you can use them for slight traction in your down dog or warrior postures. Since the mat is not a sticky mat it's not grippy (unless you're sweaty) so your posture alignment has to be just right or you may slide in your posture. I've been teaching yoga for 12 years and I'm just so happy to be on a natural fiber mat! The non-grippiness has helped me improve my alignment also and not be so dependent on the mat to hold me in place. It's a little wider than my regular mat so sticks out the top of my yoga bag. It's lightweight and thin so excellent for travel.

This mat is absolutely beautiful and the herb smell lessens after a week from opening (was a little overpowering at first). I do slip in bare feet with downward dog, lunges, and warrior 2 poses. I just ordered some yoga non-slip grip socks to see if that makes it better. I also use my old rubber mat underneath for extra cushion on the hard floor. Love it and great customer service!

This mat is sensational! I highly recommend buying one for a few reasons in addition to its quality and the fact you are supporting a wonderful small business! The mat is great for on the go or traveling because it is lightweight and versatile-- it can be used as a yoga blanket if you have another mat. The fact it is made with organic herbs is very beneficial, turmeric especially is known for its anti-inflammatory qualities and thus is very useful in any yoga practice. I also love the ridges on both ends which help maintain stability and prevent you from slipping in a hot yoga class. There is really nothing bad I can say about this mat, it is one of kind!

The quality of the materials and production process for this product is just on another level, not just for yoga mats, but for manufacturing in general. I hope to see an ever growing range of products from this company, and would also like to see other companies imitate this level of true quality, as currently the manufacturing industry is mostly just a polluted mess, and its companies like this that will set the example going forward.

This mat is absolutely beautiful as it’s very handy and easy to carry while traveling. Perfect Ayurvedic mat for Yoga. Smells good with all the natural herbal ingredients. Highly recommend this mat for daily practice. Love it and excellent customer service from Jeevastra.