Today, yoga props come in many forms, uses, and functions, with an ever-expanding array. In this blog post we will focus on the most common and accessible original yoga props from Jenny Clise’s new book The Complete Guide to Yoga Props.

Benefits of Yoga Props

Support for Diverse Bodies

The use of yoga props is beneficial to all practitioners, from larger individuals, pre- and postnatal women, older adults, and those with specific health needs due to illness, injuries, or congenital disorders.

Improved Physical Function 

It can enable you to explore deeper expressions of poses gradually increasing your overall health outcomes, range of motion and flexibility.

Pain Management

You can achieve a remarkable reduction in pain and a significant improvement in pain-related symptoms, ultimately enhancing overall quality of life. 

Injury Recovery and Prevention

Incorporating yoga props into your yoga practice can reduce strain on vulnerable areas, promote proper alignment, and transition into poses without exacerbating existing injuries or developing new ones.

Growth and Empowerment

You’ll be able to experience the stability and support necessary to explore new poses and push beyond your perceived limitations

Improved Focus, Relaxation and Confidence

Props enable you to release tension, find stability, and deepen relaxation in restorative and meditative poses. 

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Variety of Props

Yoga Blocks

Yoga blocks are also known as bricks in some forms of yoga. Several factors affect the choice of block material, such as weight, sweat absorption, firmness, and cost. Wooden blocks are excellent for durability. They are robust and heavy, and ideal for supporting postures that require a stable base. However, they are heavy to carry around.

Another option is cork blocks due to their balanced attributes, reasonable price, moderate weight, comfort, and durability. With proper maintenance, they retain a long life span even though they weigh less and are less expensive than wooden blocks.

Foam blocks are the most budget-friendly option but require more frequent replacements due to wear and tear.

Figure 1

Chairs

When it comes to incorporating chairs into your yoga practice, the options are plenty. Whether you want a regular chair at home or an inversion chair specially designed to go upside down, the choices are endless. Nearly any chair can be used to support yoga practice.

Figure 2

Straps or Belts

Yoga straps, also known as belts, come in a variety of lengths and materials depending on your needs. Over time, different strap variants have emerged such as elastic options and alternative shapes like infinity bands.

Figure 3

Blankets

Yoga blankets are typically made from woven wool, cotton, or a blend of materials, and they are characterized by their firmness. There are specially designed yoga blankets, but you can also find vibrant Mexican blankets (sarapes) at a relatively reasonable price that offer the desired length and firmness.

Figure 4

Bolsters

As with other yoga props, bolsters come in a variety of shapes and sizes. A rectangular yoga bolster is one of the most versatile options. They provide a stable and supportive surface for different postures.

Figure 5

Walls

There is no doubt that walls are one of the easiest props to describe, although they are not always easy to find in a yoga-friendly setup, especially if you like to decorate your home. Your yoga practice requires a flat, bare wall that is free of windows and decorations. The most ideal wall space would match the length of your body with arms stretched overhead as well as to the sides.

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Among yoga props, there can be significant differences even between their own categories, so understanding these nuances can really benefit your practice.

Header photo by Mikhail Nilov