Beyond the Mat: A Holistic Guide to Non-Toxic Activewear
In the pursuit of holistic health, every decision we make contributes to our well-being. From the food we eat to the clothes we wear, our choices reflect our commitment to physical health and environmental wellness. One often-overlooked area? Activewear. Recent research has revealed the hidden risks lurking in yoga pants and workout leggings—specifically the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as "forever chemicals."
At Saffron & Sage, San Diego's premier holistic healthcare club, we educate our members on total wellness—including how to reduce toxic exposure in everyday products. Our integrative practitioners emphasize whole-person care that starts with awareness and leads to aligned action.
What Are PFAS—and Why Should You Care?
PFAS are synthetic chemicals used for their water-resistant and stain-repellent properties. They're often found in cookware, cosmetics, and yes—activewear. These chemicals are persistent, meaning they don’t break down in the environment or the human body, and over time can accumulate and contribute to a host of health concerns. According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), PFAS exposure is linked to increased cholesterol levels, liver enzyme abnormalities, and increased risk of some cancers.
For those who wear leggings and yoga pants daily—such as yoga instructors, wellness professionals, and fitness enthusiasts—this repeated contact can translate into a long-term health burden.
PFAS in Workout Wear: What the Studies Show
Environmental health watchdogs have found high levels of PFAS in popular leggings and sports bras. A 2022 investigation found that nearly 25% of tested leggings contained measurable levels of fluorine, a strong indicator of PFAS contamination (Environmental Health News).
The issue lies in how PFAS are used to achieve performance features like sweat-wicking or odor resistance. While those benefits sound appealing, they come at a cost to your long-term physical health and hormonal balance.
Holistic Health Starts With What You Wear
At Saffron & Sage, our holistic healthcare philosophy teaches that prevention is the best form of therapy. It’s why we guide our members to:
Choose Non-Toxic Alternatives: Opt for brands that avoid chemical coatings and disclose their material sources.
Avoid "Performance" Claims: Labels like “moisture-wicking” or “stain-resistant” often signal the presence of PFAS.
Look for Organic Certifications: Certifications such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) can help ensure you're selecting safe and sustainable options.
Wash With Care: Even non-toxic items can shed microplastics; use a Guppyfriend bag to reduce environmental impact.
Our integrative practitioners—including holistic estheticians, nutritionists, and naturopathic doctors—can support your journey to detox your lifestyle, reduce exposure, and improve your overall wellness.
The Saffron & Sage Approach to Environmental Wellness
Located in San Diego, Saffron & Sage offers a full suite of services that align with a low-tox lifestyle, including:
Therapeutic Bodywork: To support the body’s detox pathways and improve circulation.
Naturopathic Medicine: To assess for endocrine disruptors and develop personalized wellness plans.
Skin Therapy: Using non-toxic, organic skincare tailored to your needs.
Holistic Memberships: Access to monthly services, wellness education, and a curated path to optimal health.
Our wellness club empowers professionals to take control of their physical health through actionable education, therapy, and aligned community. It’s more than clean beauty or better leggings—it’s a commitment to holistic healthcare.
Fast Facts: PFAS and Physical Health
PFAS exposure has been associated with hormone disruption and decreased immune function (Public Health VA).
One study found that exposure during pregnancy may increase the risk of developmental delays in children (ATSDR - CDC).
Some states have already begun banning PFAS in textiles and personal care products.
What You Can Do Today?
You don't have to wait for policy changes or product recalls to protect your health. Start today:
Audit your workout wear and identify brands using PFAS-free materials.
Partner with a wellness provider to support detoxification through holistic therapy.
Invest in intentional purchases that align with your values and well-being.
Move Smarter, Live Healthier
Choosing the right activewear is about more than comfort and performance—it’s about protecting your body, supporting your hormones, and honoring your long-term wellness. At Saffron & Sage, we integrate environmental awareness with therapeutic support to help you make empowered choices that align with your health goals.
Start Your Journey with Saffron & Sage
Call us at 619-933-2340 to speak with our wellness concierge about membership or service offerings. VisitSaffron & Sage to learn how our holistic health team can support your low-tox living journey. Located in the heart of San Diego, Saffron & Sage is your partner in mind-body wellness.