As a nurse scientist, nurse practitioner, professor, and certified Hatha yoga teacher, my days are extremely busy.
It seems like there’s always something that needs to get done.
But after taking a moment to sit down with my thoughts, I realized that I was putting others’ needs before my own.
How can I serve other people when I feel like my cup is empty?
Just like the analogy, where the flight attendant tells you on the plane to put your oxygen mask on before you help anyone else – I decided to put myself first.
Self-care is essential to not burning out. (You can read more about the top 5 things I do every day to take care of myself here.)
Yoga is one of my favorite forms of self-care. It helped me heal, and now I pay attention to myself, my thoughts, my feelings, and my needs.
Whether you’re new to yoga or are an experienced yogi, I hope you’ll find my list of top 3 yoga essentials helpful in your journey.
Let’s take care of ourselves so we can serve those around us!
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1. Liforme Yoga Mat
While there are more affordable options, the Liforme yoga mat has been my best investment. It includes lines and markings that help with alignment so you can feel steady and stable during your yoga asana practice.
This mat is also extremely comfortable and a great cushion for my knees. While going through my Yoga asanas, the Liforme mat allows me to keep my grip while I’m sweating. In fact, it has the best grip out of any other yoga mat I’ve tried!
Liforme provides a small hand mat that’s convenient, easy to carry, and makes difficult balancing poses easier.
I’ve tried many yoga mats before, and this is my favorite one. It’s also eco-friendly and biodegradable, and I love supporting businesses that keep our planet in mind. Let me know if you give it a try.
2. Free People Movement Clothing
It’s important for me that I stay comfortable during exercise. Free People Movement provides clothes that fit me well and don’t slip during a workout. I love doing CrossFit as well as yoga, and my Free People Movement clothes can withstand intense whatever workout I’m in the mood for that day.
Their clothing is also stylish and dries really quickly. I don’t know about you, but I feel really uncomfortable after a sweaty workout in wet clothing. Free People Movement allows you to enjoy your workout and be comfortable the rest of the day.
3. Yoga Outlet
I love companies that are one-stop shops for my needs. Yoga Outlet is just that for my yoga props, and they’re great quality materials too. From yoga blocks to resistance bands, Yoga Outlet has everything your yogi heart desires.
I’m currently practicing my center splits, and I’ve been using their resistance bands to help me. I know you’ll be able to find great quality products through their website!
Ready to Workout Together?
Take time today to pause. Think about what you can do to take care of yourself. I know yoga can be intimidating to some, but I believe everyone can incorporate an individualised yoga practice into their lives, and experience its healing benefits.
Do you have a favorite yoga essential? Share with me in the comments below.
And to follow my yoga journey, follow me on Instagram.
Cheers!
Monique Stephanie
© Monique Stephanie 