Origin of Spring Cleaning:

Our bodies produce more melatonin in the winter when it’s darker. As the daylight grows longer, we feel lighter and may feel more energetic, pouring that energy into cleaning our homes.

Spring cleaning dates back to biblical times. According to the book of Exodus, the Israelites had to leave Egypt in a hurry, so the bread didn’t have a chance to rise. During Passover, which comes in the spring, the Torah requires that no traces of leaven be left in the house.

In South and Southeast countries, like Thailand, the New Year is celebrated from April 13 to 15. This is the holiday of Songkran, a festival of purification. People scrub their homes from top to bottom.

Saucha (Sanskrit for purity. Pronounced as sow-cha):

Saucha or purity is the first Niyama or self-restraint of the 8 limbs of yoga. (That’s for a future blog.)

It reminds us to take care of ourselves internally (purity in body, heart and mind) as well as the external practice of keeping ourselves clean and our environment clean.

In yoga, we are encouraged to keep our bodies, yoga props, and the practice space clean. Whenever we step onto our mats, we practice purity of our bodies and minds.

Cleaning your yoga mat:

It is recommended that you clean your mat once a week. If you practice a few times a week, you may want to clean it more often.

To deep clean your mat in the bathtub:

· Fill the bathtub a few inches with warm water,

· Add a few drops of mild dish soap,

· Using a rag, gently scrub your mat,

· Rinse your mat with clean water,

· Hang it over the shower rod (if the rod is screwed into the wall) with a towel underneath to catch water drops,

· Let it air dry,

· After it is fully dry, roll up your mat and place it in a dry place.

To give your mat a general cleaning:

· Gather: spray bottle, 1 cup of water, ½ cup white vinegar, 3 drops of tea tree essential oil (has antibacterial and antiviral agents), other essential oils for scent (optional),

· Mix all the ingredients together in the spray bottle and lightly shake to combine,

· Lay your mat on a flat surface and spray the entire surface,

· Using a clean towel, wipe down your mat in a circular motion and then wipe away any excess moisture,

· Let your mat dry flat and then roll it up,

To disinfect your mat: (or as a fast and quick clean up)

· Using an antibacterial wipe is acceptable.

You can also purchase yoga mat cleaners from Amazon or other retailers.