Yoga mat helps practitioners to keep their hold strong on the surface due to its anti-slipping nature. It also provides a sort of insulation between the human body and the ground. This prevents any loss of heat, charge or energy from the body to the ground and thereby provides a thermo-insulation. Yoga mats are made from polyvinyl chloride (pvc) which is toxic during every stage of its life cycle. The main component in pvc is vinyl chloride, which is a human carcinogen (source).

It can make your yoga practice more comfortable. Mats add padding to the surface where you are practicing and depending on where that is, can make your practice easier and less distracted.