PROPS: A Yogi's Best Friend

PROPS IN OUR PRACTICE 

What props do I need for yoga?

While props aren’t necessary for a yoga practice, they do come in handy. 
Props can be used for additional support, steadier balance and even a deeper stretch when settling into yoga poses.
They can fill space, raise the floor to you, connects parts of the body to each other, take pressure off the body or add to it and help to balance us in our asanas.
The type of props you will need also vary depending on the type of yoga class it is. 

• For example, a restorative practice is probably going to use more blankets and bolsters, whereas 

  a vinyasa flow may be reliant on blocks and straps. The utilization of props isn’t dependent on 

  ability but rather the purpose of the pose. 

• People in very advanced yoga classes will often use blocks when they feel they need added

            support to perfect their alignment in a pose, or use straps to provide a wider opening of parts of 

            the body that may not be as flexible.

1. Blocks: wood, cork, foam 

When to use blocks:

• When you need firm support that won’t give into the weight of the body. 

• Blocks can be used to create structure in the lower body (squeezing block between legs).

• Any pose that makes you wish the floor would come to meet you halfway is a good pose to use a 

  block. 

• A yoga block is probably the most versatile of all the yoga props, wise to purchase them first.

2. Pillows/Bolsters

• Pillows and bolsters are a great way to find comfort when you need a soft, cushiony space for 

  yourself in a pose. 

• They can be used to support the back in backbends. 

• Bolsters are ideal for restorative and yin poses, as they add the extra support often needed in deep, 

  restful poses. 

• Pillows/Bolsters are a great addition for teachers and students to sit on when a block is just a bit too 

  hard or rough.

• Pillows can provide extra cushion or space that can make many poses more accessible or more 

  comfortable. 

• In some poses, you may find you need more support from a bolster if your pillows are too flat/small.

3. Straps

• Straps are the oldest yoga prop. They come in a wide variety of lengths and styles.

• Straps will help you deepen stretches without compromising the position of your back and can be 

  used in many poses.

• Straps are beneficial for muscle tension, such as tight hamstrings, or when you need some extra 

  length in stretching the shoulders or legs.

• Connecting parts of the body w/out use of the hands.

• Create arm variations

• Create or release tension in the body

*** Trauma sensitive=caution 

4. Blanket(s)

• Folded blankets are easy yoga props. Can be folded to different heights, lengths and rolled. 

• They are the perfect for added comfort and warmth and gentle weight.

• Support the legs. Rolled for support of the neck. 

5. Chair

• Can be an essential prop for a yoga practice. 
  

• Make sure your chair is sturdy. One foot on the floor at all times. 

• Provide a raised platform.

• Support of the body during movement. Can be used with 

  standing/wall work.  

• Bottom of the pelvis is the main grounding point.

• Move spine & pelvis in a unified manner. 

• Sit or stand. 

6. Wall 

• Underrated prop.

• Use for support during balance asanas.

• Can be used in conjunction with a chair.

• Used in a mat practice to support the feet and create a sense of grounding.