From beginner Yoga Students looking for support, to experienced Students working for progression in practice, Yoga props have a place in every mover’s toolkit. But what are Yoga props, and how can they be used to maximum effect?
This is your Yoga Prop Cheat Sheet:
The Yoga Block
For stability and support.
Yoga blocks are a great way to assist and maintain alignment and can be placed under your hands, feet, or hips. For example, if you’re trying to access a deep stretch in Triangle Pose (Trikonasana), placing a block under your bottom hand can make the pose more achievable.
For balance and extension.
Blocks can also assist balance poses like Half Moon (Ardha Chandrasana) by providing a stable surface to reach for, allowing you to extend further and achieve better balance.
For flexibility.
In seated forward bends or restorative poses, a Yoga block can help you reach the floor with greater comfort. As your flexibility progresses, lower the block to deepen the stretch.
Yoga Straps
For increased reach.
Yoga straps are excellent for increasing your reach and flexibility. In poses like Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana), loop a strap around your feet and gently pull yourself forward, creating a deeper stretch and reducing strain.
For alignment and support.
Straps help maintain alignment by supporting your limbs in optimal position. For example, in a reclining leg stretch, a strap can be used to hold your extended leg.
For assistance in binding.
For poses that involve binding, such as Cow Face Pose (Gomukhasana), a strap can bridge the gap between your hands, making it easier to maintain your grip.
Yoga Bolsters
For relaxation and comfort.
We love a bolster. They are the ultimate props for restorative practice. Placed under your spine, neck, or knees, they provide comfort and support in relaxation poses like Savasana or Legs Up the Wall (Viparita Karani).
For deep stretching.
In Yin Yoga or deep stretching sessions, bolsters help relax into poses for an extended period, allowing your muscles to release and lengthen.
For breath and meditation.
Bolsters can be used as a comfortable seat for meditation or pranayama (breath control) exercises, promoting relaxation and a clear mind.
Props are all about enhancing and assisting your practice; we encourage you to explore and experiment with them! You may be pleasantly surprised by the positive impact they can have on your yoga journey.