Take Your Yoga Routine to the Next Level with Props

Yoga is a great way to stay in shape, relax, and improve your overall well-being. However, if you've been practicing for a while, you may be looking for ways to challenge yourself and take your practice to the next level. That's where props come in.

Props such as blocks, straps, blankets, and bolsters can help you achieve proper alignment, deepen your stretches, and hold poses for longer periods of time. In this article, we will explore the different types of props available and how you can use them to enhance your yoga practice.

Blocks

Yoga blocks are made of foam, cork, or wood and can be used in a variety of ways. They are especially helpful for beginners who may not be flexible enough to reach the floor in certain poses. Placing a block under your hand in a standing forward fold, for example, can help you maintain a straight spine and avoid rounding your back.

Blocks can also be used to deepen your stretches. Placing a block under your sacrum in a supported bridge pose can help you open up your chest and shoulders. Blocks can also be used in seated poses, such as pigeon pose, to help you sit up straight and maintain proper alignment.

Straps

Yoga straps are made of sturdy cotton or nylon and can be used to help you achieve proper alignment in poses. They can also be used to deepen your stretches and hold poses for longer periods of time.

For example, in a seated forward fold, you can use a strap to hold onto your feet and gently pull yourself forward. This can help you stretch your hamstrings and lower back more deeply. Straps can also be used in shoulder stretches, such as cow face pose, to help you reach your hands behind your back and clasp them together.

Blankets

Yoga blankets are typically made of wool or cotton and can be used in a variety of ways. They can be folded to provide support in seated poses, such as hero pose or easy pose. They can also be used to cushion your knees or hips in kneeling poses, such as camel pose.

Blankets can also be used to help you relax in restorative poses. Placing a blanket under your head in legs up the wall pose can help you relax your neck and shoulders. Blankets can also be used to cover yourself in savasana to help you stay warm and cozy.

Bolsters

Yoga bolsters are like firm pillows that can be used to support your body in restorative poses. They can help you relax more deeply and hold poses for longer periods of time. Bolsters can also be used in seated poses, such as easy pose, to help elevate your hips and make it easier to sit up straight.

Using props in your yoga practice can help you achieve proper alignment, deepen your stretches, and hold poses for longer periods of time. Blocks, straps, blankets, and bolsters are just a few examples of the many props available. By incorporating props into your practice, you can take your yoga routine to the next level and experience the many benefits of this ancient practice.