Round & Grounded: Meet Scoria’s New Cork Mats (Win!)

Scoria’s new Round collection turns the humble yoga mat into a multifunctional design object—circular cork mats that work as practice surfaces, kid-friendly play zones and sculptural decor. We sat down with founder Yara Kamal to learn how these sustainable, artful pieces were born and why a simple shape can reshape your home practice. —Noa Nichol

What inspired you to create the Round collection—why a circular cork mat, and how did the idea evolve from concept to product?

The Round collection came from the idea of creating a sacred space, not just a mat. I wanted something that invited movement and play, something that didn’t have corners or feel limited. A circle represents wholeness, creativity, and balance, and I wanted that energy to come through in the design. The idea first came to me during a month when I was deeply consistent with my meditation practice. I started imagining a mat that could stay out all day, functional and beautiful in a home setting, where its purpose wasn’t only for yoga but to create a sacred and inspiring space to return to.

Scoria emphasizes sustainability—can you walk us through the materials and manufacturing choices that make the Round mats eco-friendly and truly biodegradable?

Each mat is made from natural cork and sustainably harvested natural rubber. We don’t use PVC, toxic glues, or synthetic foams. Cork is a renewable bark that grows back after it’s harvested, and the rubber is tapped without harming the trees. Even our packaging is plastic-free and recyclable. The goal is for every mat to be safe for the body and kind to the planet, returning to the earth when it’s done being used.

The Round mats are pitched as multipurpose—how do you recommend people use them beyond yoga—meditation, kid play, décor—and do you have a favorite unexpected use you’ve seen?

These mats are meant to be part of your life, not something you roll up and hide. They’re perfect for meditation, stretching, playtime, or even reading and creative moments. Many parents use them for tummy time and kids’ play because cork is naturally antimicrobial and easy to wipe clean. One of my favorite unexpected uses was from a friend who used the Solar Bloom mat as a centerpiece for a women’s circle. She surrounded it with candles, crystals, leaves, and rocks, creating a beautiful and symbolic setup. It’s such a great way to use the mat for gatherings, sound bowl sessions, meditations, or community talks where you want something grounding and inspiring in the center.

Several designs nod to home décor—how did you balance aesthetics with performance so these mats can double as statement pieces in living spaces?

We wanted the mats to look like art on your floor. Each design was painted with a home in mind, something earthy enough to blend in but expressive enough to spark joy. At the same time, every texture, thickness, and curve was tested for comfort and color balance in different home environments. We wanted art to meet functionality, so each mat performs beautifully for floor pilates, stretching, or standing poses, while also elevating the space like a handcrafted rug. The size is intentionally 53 inches in diameter, so it’s not meant for full lying poses like savasana, but I still use it for that sometimes. I just place a blanket behind my head or let my feet extend outside the edge and still get to enjoy the comfort of the mat fully.

Parents will love the baby mats—what safety and practical features did you build in for tummy time, playrooms, and messy moments?

The baby mats use the same non-toxic, eco-certified cork and natural rubber. There are no chemical smells or toxic dyes. Cork is naturally grippy in warm environments and can handle humidity or small spills with ease. It’s soft, comfortable, and clean for a baby’s touch. The mats are easy to clean with water and mild soap, and because cork is naturally antimicrobial, it also has self-cleaning properties. Our baby mats have been tested and meet CPC safety standards for children’s products.

For readers who already own a cork mat, what maintenance and cleaning tips do you recommend to keep cork looking great and performing well over time?

Keep it simple! If there are no stains forming, cork is naturally antimicrobial and we recommend to just roll it up cork side out after practice without spraying anything on it. Occasionally, if you see stains are forming, wipe your cork mat with a damp cloth with soap and water. Cork actually performs best when it’s slightly humid or wet and it grips more with sweat and heat, so there’s no need for sprays, gym cleaners or rubber cleaners. The best care is to make sure the mat is rolled cork side out and no harsh cleaners are sprayed on it.

From a practice point of view—how does cork change the feel of a yoga session compared to rubber or PVC mats, and which styles of yoga benefit most from cork’s grip and texture?

Cork feels grounded and natural under your hands and feet. Unlike synthetic mats, it doesn’t get slippery with sweat, it actually gets grippier. That makes it great for Hatha, Vinyasa, and hot yoga styles. The natural rubber backing also adds a supportive feel with just the right amount of resistance. It gently pushes back into your wrists or ankles rather than letting you sink in too much, which helps you stay stable and protected. Because our natural rubber is dense and not squishy like foam, it prevents overextending and supports proper alignment. This density also helps strengthen the smaller stabilizing muscles and improves overall balance during practice.

Tell us about Solar Bloom—your personal favorite—how do you style it at home, and what rituals or mini-practices do you pair with that mat to feel grounded?

Solar Bloom reminds me of an energizing and activating type of energy, which is perfect for my meditation and mini stretches I do when I wake up. I keep it by a window with a plant and candle, and it becomes a small ritual spot in my home. In the mornings I do a few sun salutations, some deep breaths, or just sit with tea and journal for a few minutes. It instantly helps me feel centered and creative again. Sometimes the sun is still not out yet when I wake up so it’s nice to see those colors in the morning.

As a founder who started Scoria in 2017, what has surprised you most about growing a women-led, crowd-funded wellness brand—and what’s one leadership lesson you’d share with other founders?

What’s surprised me most is how much personal growth mirrors the brand’s growth. Scoria has evolved as I’ve evolved and each challenge has been an invitation to practice patience, trust, and courage. One big leadership lesson: lead with vision, not validation. When you stay connected to why you started, you naturally attract the right people and opportunities.

Finally, what three quick tips can you give readers to create a calming, kid-friendly wellness corner at home using a Round mat—style, storage, and short daily rituals?

• Set the space: Choose a round mat design that feels peaceful and fits your space. Place it near natural light and add a few grounding touches such as a plant, a couple of small cushions, and a cozy blanket. Keep the space minimal so it feels inviting and easy to return to.
• Add simple storage: Keep a small woven basket nearby for toys, books, or small items. This keeps the corner tidy and makes it easy for kids to help clean up and take ownership of their special spot.
• Create a short ritual: Try a few fun cat and cow movements together, some standing side stretches, playful jumping jacks, or sit quietly to set an intention and take a few deep breaths. You can also read a short story on the mat after lunch or before bed. Even ten minutes a day builds calm, connection, and a sense of grounding for both parent and child.

Win! A Scoria Round Yoga Mat Prize Pack!

Congrats Elizabeth B. of Brooks, AB, who will receive from Scoria one Elephant Walk mat and one Soft Skies mat! Please note: if you are the winner, you will receive a DM (direct message) in Instagram directly from @vitadailymedia. Please be wary of fake accounts, which often use similar handles with an extra or missing letter, number or symbol. We will never ask for a payment or for your credit card number, and we will never ask you to click through a link. If you are unsure whether you have been contacted, via Instagram, by us or a fake account, email us before responding.