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Cork Yoga Mats – Should you get one?

May 3, 2017 by Shellie Wilson

If you are a Yoga Girl (of guy) then I am sure you have heard the new thing is the Cork Yoga Mats. Well, what is all the fuss about? Well let’s start with how they look. Firstly when your nose down in a pose you don’t have to look at processed compacted rubber! You will be looking at compacted Cork instead and to be honest the cork smells a whole lot nicer than some of those rubber ones that is for sure.

Cork is made from the bark of a tree commonly found in the Mediterranean area around Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, Morocco and Tunisia. The cork is harvested by stripping down the bark of trees, which naturally regrows. There’s no cutting down or wasteful residue in the process, making it an ideal renewable resource.

Cork also has natural antimicrobial properties which help to repel mold and mildew away. I still use this DIY Anti Bacterial Yoga Mat Spray on my mats though.

Here are some of our favorite brands the only real difference is the backing, the print on top, and of course the Prices.

If you are planning on having a Cork yoga mat, here are some tips for maintaining it.

Cork yoga mats are a great choice for those who want an eco-friendly and sustainable option for their yoga practice. Cork mats are durable, non-slip, and easy to clean. Here are some tips on how to care for your cork yoga mat:

Keep it clean: After each use, wipe your cork yoga mat with a damp cloth or sponge. You can also use a yoga mat cleaner or a solution of water and vinegar to disinfect the mat. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives as they can damage the cork.

Avoid direct sunlight: Cork can be sensitive to UV rays, so it’s best to avoid exposing your mat to direct sunlight for prolonged periods. If you need to leave it in the sun, place it in the shade or cover it with a towel.

Store it properly: When not in use, roll up your cork yoga mat and store it in a dry, cool place. Avoid storing it in humid or damp areas, as this can cause mold and mildew to form.

Use a yoga towel: If you sweat a lot during your practice, consider using a yoga towel to absorb moisture and protect your mat. This will also help to prolong the life of your cork yoga mat.

Be gentle: Cork is a natural material that can be prone to wear and tear over time. Be gentle when using and cleaning your mat to avoid damaging the surface.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your cork yoga mat stays clean, dry, and in good condition for years to come.

 

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Have you read?

How the Wilthons Transformed Their Backyard Into a Self-Sufficient Homestead in Just 6 Months

Imagine this: a typical suburban backyard filled with grass and a few shrubs. Now picture that same space transformed into a thriving homestead with vegetable gardens, chickens clucking happily in a coop, and a rainwater harvesting system in place. This is exactly what the Wilthon family accomplished in just six months, and their journey is nothing short of inspiring. From the moment they decided to make the leap into homesteading, they were determined to live a more sustainable, self-sufficient lifestyle. Here’s how they did it.

The Beginning of the Wilthons’ Homesteading Journey

It all started during the summer of 2024 when the Wilthon family—mom and dad, Emily and James, and their two kids, Lucy and Ben—decided that they wanted to make a change. Like many families, they were feeling the weight of rising grocery bills and the constant environmental stress weighing on their minds. Emily, a stay-at-home mom, had always been interested in gardening and sustainability. James, who worked as a software engineer, had a growing desire to reduce their family’s reliance on the grid and live in a way that aligned with their values.

After watching several homesteading documentaries and following local homesteaders on social media, Emily and James had an idea. They realized they didn’t need acres of land to start their homesteading adventure—just a little bit of creativity, hard work, and determination. They decided to transform their backyard into a fully functional homestead that could supply their family with food, water, and even energy—all within six months.

Step 1: Planning and Research

The Wilthons knew that starting a homestead from scratch required careful planning. They spent several weeks researching different homesteading methods, talking to local homesteaders, and getting advice from online communities. They also created a budget to ensure they could make the most of their resources.

“We knew we had to start small and not overwhelm ourselves,” said Emily. “It was about making gradual, manageable changes that would add up over time.”

Their plan included growing a vegetable garden, raising chickens for eggs, collecting rainwater, and implementing solar panels to reduce their dependence on the power grid. They also decided to start composting to reduce waste and improve soil quality for their garden.

Step 2: Building the Vegetable Garden

The first major project they tackled was transforming a large portion of their backyard into a garden. They started by researching which vegetables would grow best in their climate, focusing on easy-to-grow crops like tomatoes, lettuce, carrots, and peppers.

They used raised beds to make gardening easier, especially since the soil in their area wasn’t ideal for planting. Emily and James built the raised beds themselves using reclaimed wood, saving money while also practicing sustainable building methods.

“We wanted to make sure our garden would be productive, but we also wanted it to be low-maintenance and sustainable,” said James. “We opted for organic growing methods and started by composting kitchen scraps and using natural fertilizers.”

In just a few weeks, their garden began to thrive, and they were soon harvesting fresh vegetables right from their backyard.

Step 3: Raising Chickens for Eggs

Next on the Wilthons’ homesteading list was raising chickens. They did a lot of research on raising chickens for eggs and learned that it was one of the easiest and most rewarding aspects of homesteading.

The family built a simple chicken coop using leftover materials from their garden project, ensuring the chickens would be safe and comfortable. They started with six hens, choosing a breed known for being friendly and good egg layers.

“We were surprised at how easy it was to care for the chickens,” said Emily. “The kids loved collecting the eggs every morning, and we were amazed at how much of a difference it made to have fresh, homegrown eggs.”

Within just a few months, the Wilthons had a steady supply of eggs and were able to cut back on grocery store purchases. They even used the chicken manure to fertilize their garden, creating a sustainable loop in their homesteading system.

Step 4: Harvesting Rainwater

One of the most ambitious projects the Wilthons took on was harvesting rainwater. Living in a climate where water conservation is important, they saw the value in capturing rainwater for their garden and household needs.

They installed a rainwater collection system on their roof, which included gutters, downspouts, and a large storage tank. The system was fairly easy to install and didn’t require much maintenance.

“We’ve had a lot of rain this year, and the rainwater collection system has been a lifesaver,” said James. “We use the rainwater to water the garden, wash the car, and even for our outdoor cleaning. It’s amazing how much water we’ve saved.”

By collecting rainwater, the Wilthons not only saved money on their water bill but also reduced their environmental impact.

Step 5: Adding Solar Power

The final piece of their self-sufficient puzzle was adding solar panels to their home. The Wilthons had always wanted to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels, and solar energy seemed like the perfect way to do so.

After researching local solar panel installation companies and calculating their energy needs, they decided to install a small solar array on their roof. With their system in place, the Wilthons were able to generate enough energy to power their lights, appliances, and even their small garden pump.

“We didn’t want to go completely off-grid just yet, but being able to generate our own energy is a huge step in the right direction,” said Emily. “It gives us peace of mind knowing we’re contributing to a greener planet and saving money on our energy bills.”

Step 6: Learning Along the Way

The Wilthons were quick to realize that homesteading isn’t always easy. There were challenges, like dealing with pests in the garden and learning to manage the chickens. But every step of the way, they learned new skills and gained confidence in their ability to live more sustainably.

“We’ve made mistakes along the way, but that’s part of the process,” said James. “What’s important is that we’re learning and growing. The kids are more involved than ever, and we’re teaching them valuable skills that will last a lifetime.”

The Result: A Thriving Homestead

After just six months, the Wilthons had successfully transformed their suburban backyard into a fully functional homestead. They were growing their own food, collecting rainwater, raising chickens for eggs, and generating solar power to reduce their carbon footprint.

“We never imagined we’d be able to achieve all of this in just six months,” said Emily. “It’s been a lot of work, but the rewards are so worth it. We feel more connected to our food and the environment, and we’re teaching our kids valuable lessons about sustainability.”

Looking ahead, the Wilthons plan to continue expanding their homesteading efforts. They’re considering adding more chickens, possibly raising a few goats, and experimenting with more advanced gardening techniques like permaculture. They’re also exploring the idea of creating a small greenhouse to extend their growing season.

“The journey doesn’t end here,” said James. “Homesteading is a lifelong process, and we’re excited to see where it takes us.”

The Wilthon family’s story is a perfect example of how anyone, regardless of their living situation, can take small steps toward self-sufficiency. With dedication, planning, and a willingness to learn, the Wilthons turned their dreams of homesteading into a reality—and they did it in just six months.

Are you ready to start your own homesteading adventure? If the Wilthons can do it, so can you!

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