Putting on a yoga mat primarily refers to setting up or placing the mat on the floor for your practice. While the most common method is unrolling it lengthwise, there are alternative placements, especially when practicing online.
Standard Placement
The standard way to "put on" or set up your yoga mat is to unroll it lengthwise on the floor.
- Choose a clear, flat surface free from obstructions.
- Identify the end of your rolled-up mat.
- Place the beginning of the mat on the floor and unroll it smoothly away from you.
- Ensure the mat lies flat and is oriented so you have enough space at both the top and bottom for movements.
This creates a rectangular area where you can perform various yoga poses.
Alternative Placements for Online Practice
For online yoga classes, you might adjust your mat placement to ensure you are visible to your instructor or viewer. The way you position your mat can affect the viewing angle and how different parts of your body are seen during your practice. According to one method for online yoga classes, you can position your mat in ways that allow both sides of your body to be seen clearly, especially during sequences like a vinyasa flow.
Here are two alternative ways to place your mat, as referenced for optimizing visibility:
1. Placing the Mat Sideways
Instead of the long edge running parallel to the screen or room length, you can place the mat so its long edge is perpendicular to the usual direction.
- How-To: Unroll your mat so the longest dimension runs across the space you are practicing in.
- Benefit (as per reference): This orientation can be useful for online classes as it potentially allows the instructor or viewer to see both your right and left side more easily during sequences like a vinyasa flow.
2. Placing the Mat Diagonally
Another option is to place your mat at an angle across your practice space.
- How-To: Unroll your mat so it stretches from one corner of your designated area towards the opposite corner.
- Benefit (as per reference): Placing the mat diagonally is noted as another way you can keep your mat positioned for online classes, also potentially aiding in visibility of both sides during flow.
Choosing Your Mat Placement
The best way to place your mat depends on your practice space, the type of yoga you are doing, and whether you need to be visible for an online class.
| Placement Type | Description | Primary Use Case | Potential Benefit (Online) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Unrolled lengthwise in the space. | Most in-person and online | Simple setup, familiar orientation. |
| Sideways | Long edge perpendicular to usual direction. | Online classes | Easier view of right & left sides during flow (ref.). |
| Diagonally | Angled across the space. | Online classes | Alternative for viewing angle, potentially sees both sides (ref.). |
Ultimately, "putting on" your yoga mat is about preparing your personal practice space. Whether standard, sideways, or diagonal, ensure the mat is flat, stable, and provides a comfortable surface for your practice.
