LOS ANGELES and VILVOORDE, Belgium, June 14, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --

- First-Ever Line of Fine Art Performance Yoga Gear Available at Manduka.com

Manduka, creator of high performance yoga gear and the #1 choice of yoga teachers worldwide, announced today the debut of its first ever artist inspired collection.  A blend of timeless yoga tradition with never before seen fine art, the Lyrics Collection is the embodiment of self-expression through visual poetry.  The limited collection is now available at Manduka.com and select key retail partners across Europe.

Developed with innovative printing technology that does not compromise the performance of the product, the Manduka Lyrics Collection features top of the line yoga and active gear including eQua Towels, Practice Tote and the premiere Cork block.  Interpreted as spoken word on canvas, the 'gear as art' surrounds themes of Om, Namaste, 1Ness and Now-with each design intended to inspire creativity while on the mat.

"We're continually inspired by the artistry of the Yoga community," said Sky Meltzer, CEO of Manduka.  "Using our high quality products as a canvas for art, the Lyrics Collection unfolded into the creative expression for what we stand for as a company, uncovering the passion behind the practice of yoga."

The Manduka eQua Towels are lightweight, durable and super absorbent, out performing ordinary cotton or polyester towels no matter what activity you choose.  Made with tightly woven, micro-fiber yarn to produce a soft, suede-like surface, the Manduka eQua Towels provide firm grip with moisture to all high performance mats.  Its super absorbent micro-fiber blend and machine washable capabilities simultaneously provide hygienic protection for your yoga mat. The Manduka Lyrics eQua Towels are available in Vintage Violet, Limestone Green and Dusk Blue.

Designed with yogi-tailored usability and style, resilient fabric and hardware, and a breathable mat compartment, the Manduka Practice Totes provide sleek storage and protection for your essential yoga-tote-ables.   Made of easy-to-wash natural cotton, the Practice Tote offers functional style with handy side handles, durable reverse zippers, a clip for keys and a hidden pocket for valuables and breathable grommets to keep your gear smelling fresh even after the sweatiest class.  The Manduka Lyrics Practice Tote is available in Vintage Violet, Vintage White and Limestone Green.

The Manduka Cork Block sets the standard for high performance yoga props. Made with a renewable, sustainable material, which comes from the bark of a Cork Oak Tree, it has a firmness not found in foam blocks, and allows you to feel secure in the support it provides. The smooth rounded edges and corners provide added comfort and an easier hand grip.  The Manduka Lyrics cork provides a stunning canvas for art and expression, inspiring your practice.

"Manduka continues to provide top of the line, innovative products unlike any other yoga gear company in Europe," said Manduka European Manager, Bruno De Muynck.  "We are excited to offer the European yoga community with a collection they will truly appreciate-high quality, functional products that consumers expect combined with visual art that is inspirational."

For more information on Manduka Lyrics, please visit: http://www.manduka.com/eu/, join us on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/mandukayoga or follow us @MandukaYoga

About Manduka

Founded in 1997, Manduka was built on the simple idea that a better yoga mat can make a world of difference. Manduka strives to support and enrich the yoga community by providing premium quality mats and products while respecting employees, customers, materials, and the environment.  Created for and by yoga enthusiasts, Manduka's technical and purpose-driven product designs meet and often exceed the distinct needs of all practitioners.  Today Manduka's products, which include yoga mats, towels, yoga straps, water bottles, and bags, are sold in more than 35 countries around the world. Not only focusing on superior design, Manduka also promotes their ethos of quality, thoughtfulness and sustainability in all realms of their business.

SOURCE Manduka