I’ve noted many times over this year that it has been special to see the outpouring of support for one another and for local communities all around. As we look at celebrating the holidays this year socially distant and virtual, that support has continued to blossom for local businesses and independently owned stores. This month I’d like to highlight how that extends to your yoga studio, either the one you frequent or the one a friend attends and for whom you’re looking for just the right gift to brighten that person’s holiday. Here in Dallas, The Mat Yoga Studio offers numerous items in their store that could be great gift ideas.
Props
Mats, blocks and yoga therapy balls may be a great idea for someone to aid in a home practice. And some classes may also request a student to bring their own props if classes are open (as was this case back in the spring). While props are a good idea for a friend attending class, they’re also a fantastic idea for practicing at home to the online class library or a live virtual class (like The Mat’s annual Christmas class happening virtually that afternoon!). The holiday season may even be a good time to gift some props to oneself for your own practice.
Gifts
Another item that may be great to keep an eye out for are the local artisans that may also have offerings within the studio store, a way of supporting both your local studio and local artists and other small businesses. For instance, the Mat offers beautiful stone jewelry from SoulKu, which can make a thoughtful gift.
Studio Merchandise
And of course, a great way to visually show support for the studio? Studio swag! That can be t-shirts or, one of my favorites, a water bottle. Having my water bottle around – not just taking it to class – has long been a reminder of how much I enjoy my studio and the classes and community I’ve found there. What’s also been fun over the years is seeing friends with their studio bottles too.
Workshops
Another offer may be for a friend to cover a class or a workshop. The Mat offered a fantastic mindfulness series over this last year, which turned out to be just what was needed for a virtual workshop (in my opinion). As new workshops are announced later for next year, this might be a great future gift and something to look forward to in the upcoming weeks and months.
One other thing to keep in mind as I noted above with props is that these ideas may be great for some self-love and self-gifting. Maybe it’s time to buy props to further modify and practice at home, or try other types – like a virtual restorative yoga – from the comfort of home. Or maybe if you’re unable to take class in a physical space, some of that space is brought home with a studio water bottle of post-flow t-shirt.
Happy Holidays!
This is the part of a series of posts for The Mat Yoga Studio, sharing my thoughts and observations as a student only. The views and opinions are my own.
