What thickness yoga mat should I buy?

6mm is the safe default. Go thinner (3mm) if you do a lot of standing balance work and want to feel the floor; go thicker (8mm or more) if your knees or wrists hurt on a standard mat, or if you mostly do floor-based Pilates.

Do I need yoga blocks as a beginner?

Yes, and they help beginners most. Blocks let you hold correct alignment in poses your current range cannot reach, which is how the range actually improves. Two blocks, foam or cork, is the standard pairing.

TPE, PVC or natural rubber — which mat material?

TPE is light, recyclable and mid-grip. PVC is the cheapest and most durable but the least eco-friendly. Natural rubber has the best grip when you sweat and the strongest smell for the first week. For hot yoga, choose rubber or a mat with a microfibre top.

Does a yoga wheel actually help?

For opening the thoracic spine and chest after long hours seated, yes — it supports the weight of your upper body so you can hold an extension you could not hold unaided. It is a comfort and mobility tool, not a spinal treatment.

How do I stop my mat from slipping?

Wash new mats before first use to remove the manufacturing film, use a towel over the mat if you sweat heavily, and clean with a diluted vinegar solution rather than oil-based sprays, which make the surface slicker over time.