The difference between ordinary salt and sea salt is that ordinary salt comes from salt mines and undergoes extensive processing that removes many minerals. Sea salt comes from evaporated seawater, and the two types of salt differ in their components, taste and structure. But all salts have the same function - to dry out and dissolves the materials/the liquid or wax etc,. "To break in a Manduka mat" actually means you need to dissolve the topside of the yoga mat. Manduka choice sea salt because sea salt a little more eco friendly than ordinary salt, but it doesn't mean than sea salt is better to dissolve the topside of the yoga mat. Manduka pro is too expensive, and too much work, it's not worth it.

What if I use Epsom salts?

@@dontask4990 For me, the salt was like a one time thing only. After that initial washing and exfoliating I ended up really appreciating the feeling of the urge to constantly use my new mat to break it in. As a beginner it helped motivate me to practice more often because with each use I was breaking it in more and more until grippy.

Rock salt is coarser and that’s why you use it. Maria is using coarse salt but maybe too much unless she’s reusing it. You’ll need to repeat the process at least 3 times. Also better to leave it 24-48 hours in the sun. Mandukas are absolutely worth it. Last at least 10 years and they have a lifetime guarantee