Presents for Your Favorite Yogi

Thank all that's good that these days, there's more yoga stuff out there than ever. From clothes to mats, to jewelry and DVDs, there is a perfect present out there for every yogi.

Here are a few suggestions:

• Gorgeous, Indian-influenced jewelry by Rosena Sammi. Check out the Kismat Collection to see her Om Shanti Necklace, Om Necklace; the Fashion Collection for the stunning Mandala Earrings. Prices run from $110 to $320, and up.
  
  
• Yoga clothes. For those of you not in close proximity to Asana Activewear, I'm sorry for you. BUT, if you're ever passing through Charlotte, NC, do not miss this place. Owners Gary and Leslie have the BEST selection of activewear in town if you're looking for gear more interesting than what's available at your local big box store. It's a great looking store with a selection that has been edited with a very discerning eye. You will not be disappointed.
  
  Lululemon Athletica also has some great looking pieces for guys and girls. Plus a cool site with gorgeous, real-people-doing-yoga photos. I like.
  
  
• Yoga music. Give a gift certificate to Omstream.com. Yoga, meditation, and world music can be downloaded for playing on you iPod or mp3 player. Listen to samples, see suggestions, or download entire playlists.



• Cool mats. I should practice what I preach and invest in some fun mats, but I'm still sticking by my favorite Nike mat. If you're looking, here are some ideas...be sure to check out Get Your Crow Flying with Cheeky Yoga Gear and More Unique Mats to see more.
  
  Circles Mat
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Prana Reversible ECO Sticky Mat

Tried and True

Is paying more for gear that promises "high-performance" because of its "sweat-wicking" technology worth it? I say yes.

I recently purchased this outfit from nikewomen.com (one of my favorite sites for really good-looking athletic wear) and while it is pretty cute on, I can tell you that after a recent two-hour Vinyasa class done at about 90 degrees farenheit, Nike's claims are bonafide. As I stood in Eagle pose with sweat literally dripping off the ends of my elbows, my pants showed no embarassing sweat rings, and my top stayed in place, which allowed me to concentrate on holding the pose instead of fidgeting with my clothes. Nothing worse than that. Of course, no matter how comfy some things seem in the dressing room, it's not until you get on your mat that you really know how your clothing is going to hold up.

Featured: Nike Shibuya Bodywear Top and Rebel Capri.