In some cases, it’s the bumps you encounter in life that often end up defining your future. For Manduka, this is something they know all too well. Theirs is a brand founded on the premise that an excellent yoga mat can make a ton of a difference. Manduka was founded in 1997 by Peter Sterios; a renowned architect turned yoga practitioner. He came about the idea after discovering a simple, elegantly designed black mat with a unique combination of complete support and firm grip. The simple mat helped change how he practised yoga. In a bid to honor the yoga masters who had inspired him to become a yogi, he made it his mission to share this product, which he called the Manduka yoga mat, with the rest of the world.
His First Clients and the Founding of a Great Company
Ever since he became a yogi, Peter had greatly benefited from the generosity advanced to him by his teachers. To repay this debt, he began sending the mats to his past teachers, many of whom he still held in great admiration.
His teachers included:
- Shiva Rea
- Erich Schiffmann
- Rodney Yee
- Rod Stryker
- Victor Van Kooten
- Angela Farmer
Therefore, the teachers who had inspired him on his journey to becoming a yogi became his first customers. As is the tradition in yoga practice, his teachers began sharing these mats with their learners, helping the brand grow to what it has become today.
Peter settled on the name Manduka to pay homage to Shandor Remete, his teacher and mentor. His teachings and core practice had touched on yoga practices such as the frog (Mandukasana) and the ancient Hatha Yoga Pradipika. From the moment he first heard the name Mandukasana, Peter recalls experiencing a childlike joy due to how it rolled off his tongue. The pose and the word itself were mirror images, as they were simultaneously profound and playful. Today, its joy continues to be spoken in tens of countries worldwide.
Quality and Performance of Manduka Mats
Since their inception, the quality and performance of these yoga mats and accompanying accessories have remained unmatched in the industry. Their crafting relies on the use of simple and naturally sourced materials. Whenever possible, renewable materials are used in their making, together with a great attention to detail. Manduka is a brand built by and intended for yogis. Their products are great for both yoga masters and their students. Its customers can expect to come across new products as it continues to evolve. Some of its products are meant to assist in celebrating the spirit and wisdom imparted by yoga teachers to their students. Presently, the Manduka mats available in the marketplace fall into the following categories:
- Pro and Pro Lite: They offer superior performance, dense support and are supported by a lifetime guarantee.
- eKO Series: They’re the next generation of yoga mats and products manufactured using natural materials.
Thanks to its broad selection of yoga mats and accessories, the Manduka brand will continue to thrive for years to come.
*Collaborative post
About Debz Louise
Debz Louise is a UK-based lifestyle expert and the founder of several lifestyle blogs, including Wannabe Princess and Under 5s. Specializing in everything from interior design and home renovation to body-positive fashion and early years development,