Every little shop that springs up in New York begins as an idea. What sets this one apart is that it sought birth in vibration. OMALA, the Sanskrit term for "source of life," is a destination for all things uplifting, things to bring you one step closer to inner peace.

Owner and creator Kate Gaertner begins this way: by providing a line of eco-conscious activewear, much of it made from bamboo. Soft as cashmere, four times more absorbent than cotton, naturally anti-microbial, and infinitely renewable, bamboo has the potential to become the textile of the future. Omala has designed the lines to accommodate different torso lengths to satisfy different body types for a perfect fit. The store has also pledged to donate a percentage of proceeds to The Nature Conservancy, to join forces and move conservation efforts forward. Through clothing, OMALA reinforces the idea that everything is connected: the protection of Earth's resources safeguards our own lives.

Everything offered there is with this consciousness. Bamboo blocks for yoga, non-PVC mats* and clean burning soy candles line the shelves, helping you practice within the yogic tenet of ahimsa (non-harming). To remind you further that each choice, everyday, makes a difference, OMALA offers stylish, high quality yoga mat bags, made from recycled rice bags by women in Africa. Gaertner began this work-resource program to help women provide for themselves, half a world away.

For home-spa treatment, explore the selection of 100% organic, DUMBO-produced body scrubs, cleansers, and lotions; lather on the Shea butter balms; sink into bliss. If a special someone waits at home, ask for the soy-based essential oil candle, which doubles as massage oil—and guarantees a romantic evening.

Aside from the clothing, jewelry, body care items, and yoga props, find yourself arriving at OMALA for community classes in yoga and pilates, or a Reiki or massage session. The purchase price of each class/treatment can be applied to your next purchase—making the nourishment of your soul and spirit possible in every way!

Gaertner is a boutique owner who lives with the philosophy that "the smallest thing can make a difference in a big, big way." She has created OMALA to make that difference, and her vibration, sounded with the intent of maximizing Beauty and minimizing harm, has only begun to be heard.

*PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a highly toxic, known carcinogen, and the main ingredient for most available sticky mats in the U.S. This plastic does not biodegrade, and is made soft with additives such as lead and cadmium, which off-gas and seep into the groundwater when thrown away. PVC mats are currently impossible to recycle.