Leni Penn

Yoga means union, and is a process by which we can become more connected with ourselves, and recognize our interconnectedness and oneness with all beings and the earth. When we realize the effect we have on the environment, and the inherent unity we have with it, we can live more harmoniously with the natural flow of life.

My favorite products have a low impact on the environment, are kind to animals, and are made without exploitation or oppression of humanity. When the products we use and the money we spend are in line with the philosophy of yoga, we come closer to the union we seek. Our choices, our dollars and our words are ways in which we cast a vote towards consciousness or disconnection. When we realize the power that we have to make changes with our choices, we give voice to what matters and to our morals.

1. My Tiny Devotions Daydream Mala: I love connecting with the energies of the earth through what I wear, especially because I live in a city. Crystals, minerals, and stones remind me of the miraculous power of creation. Sandalwood is grounding and reminds me of the support that the earth has to offer. When we meditate and practice yoga, we become more mindful and can utilize our own inner resources and the earth’s resources in ways that will benefit our descendants and show respect for all we have been naturally given. My mala is a constant reminder of that commitment. www.lovetinydevotions.com

2. Manduka Black Mat Pro: This mat has a lifetime guarantee, so you’ll never need to buy another yoga mat. Manduka is committed to ecology, sustainability and life long support for your yoga practice. They also recently created the world’s first 100% recyclable yoga mat. How awesome is that? www.manduka.com

3. Miakoda Hand Crocheted Cowl: This eco-friendly, vegan, organic company is made in a small factory in NYC by Julia Ahrens. When it’s cold, I never leave home without my hand crocheted cowl. They’re made with love by my sister who carries out a mission close to both our hearts. www.miakodanewyork.com

4. KiraGrace: KiraGrace is an American conscious yoga clothing company run by an amazing woman CEO named Kira Karmazin. This company celebrates women’s beauty and individuality while supporting the bigger picture– KiraGrace donates 100% of the proceeds of the Warrior T-Back Yoga Tank to Off The Mat Into The World, supporting the community locally and globally and showing commitment to progress and change in the name of unity and justice. www.kiragrace.com

5. North Coast Organics Natural Deodorant in Death by Lavender: The armpits and the skin are vulnerable to absorption of toxins, so I choose products that are natural and non-toxic. North Coast Organics is committed to kindness to animals and the environment, contains only natural and organic ingredients, and are even made on equipment cleaned only with natural products. http://north-coast-organics.com/

6. Leni Penn, Light Grey Ostrich Tote: Made in the USA with all vegan materials, this incredibly authentic feeling and looking leather alternative is gorgeous, durable, and compassionate. No animals are harmed, and it comes in multiple sizes with different ways of closure. The bags are versatile enough for you to take to practice, the beach, or wherever your travels take you… www.lenipenn.com

7. Simplecare Products, Coffee Bean Fresh Scrub: Owned by a woman entrepreneur, this small company uses only vegan and wholesome products that are good for you, for animals, and for the earth. The products are handmade, detoxifying, and ecologically responsible. www.simplecareproducts.com

8. Stone & Violet, Crystal Grid Board: Artist, woodworker, and crystal specialist Lauren Gray visits a lumberyard weekly to salvage wood that is destined for the landfill and creates boards emblazoned with sacred geometrical patterns for use in crystal grid work. Creating grids is a beautiful way to bring ritual and intention into a particular space, ceremony, or practice, and helps me to navigate the highs and lows of life, show my gratitude, or invite energy that I want to cultivate in my life. www.stoneandviolet.com

9. My Zen Home, Dhyana Cushion: I love the support and sustainability the Dhyana Cushion brings to my meditation practice. I can feel comfort and also know that this company’s organic products are easy on the earth. The owners of the company are committed to the practice, and have been seen burning sage to clear the energy before opening their booth at yoga festivals worldwide. www.myzenhome.com

We live in a world of abundance and beauty, and it is a practice of gratitude to enjoy all of the physical creations and manifestations of others’ energy. However, remember when purchasing that it is important to enjoy what you already have. Sometimes, the most ecological choice is what you don’t buy, or choosing not to make a purchase. Try to repurpose, reuse, and recycle old or others’ belongings into something you can save from throwing away. Because there is no “away,” and everything we do impacts this earth. Purchase quality products that use resources responsibly and promote freedom and justice for all, and they will support your own personal growth and last for years to come.

Laura is passionate about connection to body, spirit, and the earth. She works with attention to alignment and each individual’s current physical and emotional circumstances (the only possible starting point) to create a practice that is fuelled by deep breathing, a strong connection to core, reverence for ancient wisdom and ceremony, and the use of the practice of yoga to be more alive in each moment. She’s forever grateful to her teachers, formal and otherwise, and has completed a 200 hour training in vinyasa, the Forrest Yoga 200 hour Teacher Training and Advanced Teacher Training with Ana Forrest, a year-long mentorship program with Forrest Yoga Guardian Dr. Heidi Sormaz and holds a BFA from The University of the Arts.