What is a falsa blanket and why is it popular in yoga studios?
The falsa is a Mexican blanket prized for its vibrant colors, loose weave, and knotted ends.
In yoga, it’s so convenient to be able to roll or fold them up, ready for use when needed.
In this article, you’ll learn about the falsa—how it came about and why it’s the best for yoga.
On top of that, you’ll never be confused between the sarape and the falsa again.
The Origins Of Falsa In Yoga
Before falsa became the go-to blanket of yogis, cotton blankets from India were the default.
In the 1960s this was the case, up until B.K.S Iyengar, a yoga instructor, purchased his first falsa on his trip to Mexico.
From that point on, Mexican blankets became the norm.
He bought the blankets in bulk and was pleased over the durability of the blanket.
Considering the cheap prices, the blanket was tougher than cotton ones.
Thus, it became a trend for yoga blankets to be durable and thick, to be able to support the poses and asanas of yoga.
Falsa Vs. Sarape Blankets
Before you enroll in a yoga class, you have to learn the distinction between a falsa and a sarape blanket.
Be attentive, for they are almost identical. The appearance might fool you and demand a closer look.
Serapes are mainly for decorating at home. Unlike the common “X” pattern in falsa, the design is more intricate, with stripes in bright colors.
Often, serapes have fringes and openings similar to the poncho, an item of Mexican clothing.
Men tend to wear the serape in mainstream culture. Although if need be, the blanket can also be used in meditation, as a cushion for the knees.
The serape is now found among upholstery, table cloths, bedspreads, and car seat blankets.
Each hand-woven piece is unique. In general, however, the serape is made of thinner fabric, so the blanket is lighter, too.
You can use the serape as a throw blanket during cold nights, on the couch, or in hammocks.
To distinguish a good quality serape blanket, look for vivid colors and softer texture.
The Mexican market might rip you off with rough ones, whose stripes blur due to poor weaving. Also, check if the threads stay in place.
On the other hand, falsa is almost identical—lightweight and durable. Typically, they are longer than falsa blankets, about 75″ in length.
Remember to consider your height when choosing blankets, so that you can fit inside.
Falsa blankets are common sightings in yoga sessions.
What sets it apart dramatically from a serape is the thicker threads and more loose weave, similar to knitted ones.
As for the design, the falsa features diamonds and stripes, all for a rustic effect.
Lastly, perhaps the best thing is how durable the blanket is—lasting for years, even more.
The colorful threads are all recycled too, to help the environment.
What Is A Falsa Blanket’s Relevance To Yoga
Yogis adore the soft but firm feel of Mexican blankets, aside from the aesthetic value of the Mexican theme.
Since yoga class lasts for a few hours only, yogis find it convenient how one can just roll the blanket and store it within seconds.
The falsa is a popular padding due to its materials.
Due to the thickness of the blanket, yogis can exercise barefoot in difficult poses.
The blend of materials, a mixture of cotton, acrylic, and polyester allows it to absorb sweat without being damp.
The padding is a great conductor of body heat.
Falsa, like serape, can be decorative as well. If the blanket is not due for yoga, then it can stay at home, for aesthetic purposes.
The vibrant colors and exquisite craftsmanship can bring to life any lifeless room.
Unless your yoga blanket is mass-produced, each falsa is custom-made—truly a work of art.
Each strand boasts the careful artistry of the weaver and the technical precision it took.
The array of sizes and cultures showcases the rich traditions of Mexico, keeping the heritage alive.
Is the falsa at par with cotton and wool blankets?
Yes, cotton makes up about ⅓ of the falsa, although it is indeed warmer than cotton.
The fibers in falsa are blended, the rest being acrylic and polyester, so this is the outcome.
Compared to pure fibers, blended ones tend to last longer, too.
Washing is not a tricky business anymore, because you can wash it regularly. To estimate, they roughly cost the same.
What size of falsa should I get?
The blanket must contain you in Savasana, as a rule. Generally, the taller you are, the bigger the blanket you should get.
Keep in mind that a larger blanket can offer more creativity in yoga poses.
Conclusion
What is a falsa blanket in the yoga world? It has become staple equipment, that is.
If yoga is your thing, you need to check this blanket out.