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When you contemplate what, exactly, to purchase for someone, one of the first things that typically flits through your thoughts is whether you’re opting for a thing that’s practical or aspirational. But what if you didn’t need to decide? Each of the yoga-adjacent items that follow hold strong wooing potential not only for their no-nonsense functionality but the lovely little flourishes that bring some a little fanciful to the everyday…so much so that you may reconsider and keep them for yourself.
At a Glance
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Manduka PRO Yoga Mat
$108 to $120 at Amazon $120 to $150 at Manduka
Anyone who understands the basic tenets of yoga knows that what truly matters is how it feels, not how it looks. But with Manduka mats, you don’t have to choose between form and function. The densely cushioned, almost indestructible mat is a darling of yoga teachers for a reason—it’s supportive, it’s grippy, and it’s avail in an array of colors, including the limited-edition hues of Root (shown above) and a cleverly two-toned Solstice. The only caution is if you practice hot yoga or tend to sweat a lot, you’ll want to throw a towel down.
People I’ve Loved Things to Look Forward to Journal
Something about the hand-drawn aesthetic of the Things to Look Forward To journal and the touching sentiments it prompts makes paging through it feel sorta like a lingering hug. In both this and the brand’s Gratitude journal, you’re allowed space to to fill in the precious details of your life that might otherwise go unrecorded. That said, there’s ample space for your thoughts in a manner that’s less guided than most. (For those who prefer a more structured experience, People I’ve Loved offers other journal options.)
Angelus: Experiential Chakra Workbook
An exploration of the chakras should feel anything but mundane. This imaginatively conceived and designed creation ensures that ennui is the last thing that will happen. The oversize tome breaks down each chakra into several one-word components related to it and offers insights and poses and sequences to help you realign whatever feels out of sorts. Although the information found between the covers could easily be amassed into a textbook, the delivery of it is, blissfully, vastly more engaging.
Gaiam Non-Slip Mat
Finding a modestly priced yoga mat that meets all of your needs can feel like a Sisyphean task, but this non-slip lovely might reinspire you. When Gaiam says it’s non-slip, they mean it. Online reviewers note that it can handle their hot yoga classes despite puddles of sweat. It’s relatively lightweight and its mid-level price range won’t cause as much sticker shock as some mats.
The Modern Nirvana Oracle Deck
Inspired by “avant-garde 80s fashion,” the Modern Nirvana Oracle Deck brings a contemporary vibe to timeless archetypes and advice. The guidance contained within the cards feels unexpected and accessible through colorful, striking, even playful illustrations. The oracle is ideal for newbies and card collectors alike, whether you’re seeking to infuse your own life with insight or trying to spark someone else’s intuition.
Anima Mundi Relax Bundle
Need a little help winding down from your day? Anima Mundi’s herbal offerings are up to the task. A tincture of herbs including lemon balm, passion flower, chamomile, and ashwagandha encourages relaxation while the accompanying loose leaf blue lotus tea supports meditative states, general calm, even lucid dreaming.
MyHydro Water Bottle
You use your water bottle every single day. So why not customize it? Hydro Flask’s MyHydro bottles allow you to adjust each element from bottle to boot, including size, cap style, and hue. Whether you choose a monochromatic or multi-colored approach, you can create an accessory that makes a truly personal statement. (Shown above is the 24-ounce wide mouth with flex straw cap in Agave.)
Tumaz Yoga Strap
Stretch it out safely—and encourage loved ones to do the same—with the help of Tumaz’s durable and quite pretty yoga straps. The fabric is soft, thick, strong, and entirely deserving of your trust in supported lifts and stretches. Plus, props in colors that pop help make your practice that much more playful.
