Rituil, a manufacturer of sustainable textiles, has entered the luxury spa market with the launch of its range of fired cork lifestyle products.
In collaboration with more than 8,000 Portuguese cork artisans, Rituil has manufactured a yoga mat, yoga blocks and a meditation seat with the naturally antimicrobial and odour-resistant material.
Rituil’s cork is a 100 per cent biodegradable material, which is sustainably hand-harvested. An outer layer of bark is removed from oak forest tree trunks, without damaging the tree, to create products. New bark thickens and is removed again every nine years after the first yield.
Cork’s hygienic properties, resistance to water and durability make it a good choice for products used on a daily basis. For example, Rituil says its cork yoga mats will outlast any plastic or PVC mats. The smooth mats unroll completely flat with a natural rubber base that ensures the mat stays securely on the floor and the non-slip grip of the cork offers yoga practitioners stability. The colour of the mat is customisable.
The Rituil Block is also part of the range. This is a 15-degree angled seat used during yoga to provide relief to those with tight hips and sore knees. The block is formed during a process that uses fire and steam to bind the cork’s natural adhesives and create the brand’s signature subtle smokey scent. Yoga blocks are also available, produced in the same way.
Rituil’s meditation seat completes the current set of cork products on offer. This piece of furniture is angled to tilt the user’s hips forwards to provide good posture.
Focused on sustainability, Rituil also has a number of products crafted from recycled cotton – a process that reduces landfill waste and minimises water consumption and chemicals. The Rituil Rug, for example, is made by Portuguese artisans from the textile waste of local cotton factories.
Brothers and co-founders James and Michael Gallagher established the company during a break from their corporate careers. James explains, “In a society that idolizes “hustle” culture, true wellness is often overlooked. Our minds and bodies can never seem to fully catch up to each other without putting everything on pause.”
“More than just a collection of natural products, Rituil is a movement dedicated to helping individuals reconnect with their true nature by practicing the daily ‘Rituils’ that bring them joy,” James added.
