New to Yoga: First Essentials

Starting your yoga journey can feel a little overwhelming especially with all the advice and gear guides out there. It might even seem like you need to spend a fortune just to make it to your first Savasana. But the truth is, you don’t need much at all. In fact, you probably already have most of what you need to get started. Let’s walk through the real essentials to help you feel confident as you take your first steps on the mat.

What do you really need?

Every yogi’s journey is unique. Some people begin at home with an online class, while others step into a local studio for the first time. However you start, the most important thing you can bring to your first class isn’t gear it’s an open mind.

Let’s be real: no one tries something new and feels amazing at it from day one. Yoga is no different. Some days will feel great, others might feel off and that’s completely okay. Be patient with yourself as you explore different styles, teachers, and practices. Over time, you’ll start to discover what feels right for your path.

And now, let’s talk about what to wear. There’s really just one rule: be comfortable. Wear clothes that let you move freely if you can squat, stretch, bend, and lift your arms overhead without fussing with your outfit, you’re good to go. Don’t hesitate to layer up, either. You can always shed a layer once you’re warmed up.

Most importantly, wear what makes you feel confident and ready to practice. If you’re looking for ideas, check out our Dhara Collection for a little inspiration.

What to look for in your first yoga mat?

Your mat just like any gear, different mats serve different needs, so don’t stress too much about finding the “perfect” one right away. Keep it simple and start with a mat that supports you as you begin your practice.

You want a mat that offers good grip something that helps your hands and feet stay put so you can confidently explore new poses and flows. For your first mat, look for something comfortably cushioned and stable, designed with beginners in mind.

The right mat will have enough thickness and support to keep you grounded without holding you back. It should encourage your progress and make your practice feel secure from the very first session.

Here are a few mats that can be great companions as you start your yoga journey:

Manduka Begin - A perfect place to start. It offers comfy cushioning and reliable grip to keep you steady.

Manduka X - A versatile cross-training mat with good cushioning and grip, great if you mix yoga with other workouts.

Manduka eKO® lite - Made from natural rubber, it provides a strong, natural grip and soft support. Perfect for yogis who love that grounded feel. Just remember it needs a little extra care, and pairing it with a yoga towel can boost your grip even more!

GRP® Adapt Yoga Mat - Manduka’s grippiest option, designed to handle everything from gentle flows to intense, sweaty sessions.

Can I start with a PRO mat?

We don’t usually recommend jumping straight into a Manduka PRO™ mat unless you already have a solid foundation in mobility and stability. The PRO series is made for experienced yogis who have developed strong grip through their hands and feet and don’t need as much help from the mat. It’s designed to support smooth, flowing transitions between poses.

So when you see a teacher or seasoned practitioner on a PRO mat, know they’ve put in the time and practice to get there and their mat supports their stability and cushioning needs rather than providing extra grip.

Think of it like this: you wouldn’t put a toddler on a racing bike for their first ride, right? The same goes for yoga mats. Your first mat should support you as you learn, not push you beyond where you’re ready. And don’t worry you can always upgrade to a PRO mat later on when the time is right.

Do I need yoga props?

Not at all at least not right away. You don’t have to rush out and buy a bunch of yoga props when you’re just starting. Instead, take a look around your home; you might already have everything you need to get going.

For example:

• A sturdy hard book can work perfectly as a yoga block.

• Your belt or even a skipping rope can stand in for a yoga strap.

• A comfy pillow from the sofa can replace a bolster.

As you practice more, you’ll get a feel for how props can support you and which ones might be worth investing in. When that time comes, you’ll likely notice a big difference with just one new item.

What does a yoga towel do?

Yoga might be low impact, but don’t underestimate how much you can sweat during practice. When your hands and feet get moist, slipping can happen which is super common and happens to everyone at some point.

Most yoga mats have a closed-cell surface, so they don’t absorb moisture. Instead, sweat sits between your skin and the mat, creating a slippery layer. That’s where a yoga towel comes in handy.

A yoga towel is small and easy to keep nearby while you practice. When you start to feel yourself slipping, simply place the towel under your hands or wherever you need extra grip. It absorbs sweat and helps keep you steady. Because everyone sweats differently, you can move the towel around your mat as needed.

For many yogis, a yoga towel is their go-to tool to tackle slipping making every class feel a little more predictable and a lot more comfortable.

Enjoy the journey.

Whatever gear you choose, let quality and what you truly need guide your purchases. Don’t hesitate to ask fellow yogis why they use certain items it can give you great insight. As your practice grows, adding tools that support you will only enhance your experience, both on and off the mat.

But above all, remember this: yoga is about you. Don’t stress about how good you are or what equipment you have. Those things will come in time as you learn more about what works best for you. The real key is to keep showing up and trying over and over until you find your rhythm.

And here’s the fun part: where you start won’t be where you end up. Even the most experienced teachers and dedicated practitioners are always learning and exploring new paths. Yoga is a journey, and those who enjoy the best experiences are the ones open to change and willing to try new things.

Yoga opens so many possibilities. All it takes is that first step and not worrying too much about which direction you’re headed.