When Just You and a Mat Are Not Enough

     Let's say it is your first day of Yoga class. You arrive wearing brand new sweats, a fresh-out-of-the-bag yoga mat, and a great big smile. The instructor begins leading the class into a popular pose called Adho Mukha Svanasana, also known as Downward Facing Dog. While the rest of the class gracefully bends down and gently places their hands flat on the floor, you discover that you are about as flexible as a carrot stick. No matter how hard you try, you cannot place your hands on the floor without seriously bending your knees. This is where a yoga block or a yoga wedge placed underneath your hands would come in handy.


Where Did All of These Props Come From?

     In the 1960's a Yoga Guru named B.K.S. Iyengar noticed that many yoga students weren't achieving proper body alignment in each posture. This was not only due to poor training, but also to the physical limitations of each person's unique body. For instance, a person who has tight hamstrings may compensate for this by keeping the knees bent in many standing forward-bending postures. Or, a person who has bow legs may not be standing correctly in Corpse Pose, or may have trouble balancing due to the misalignment of their legs.

     Iyengar believed that by adding certain props to postures, everyone can achieve the same benefits and goals of their yoga practice, regardless of any physical limitations he or she may have. After continuous use of props, Iyengar noticed that a person can even retrain his or her muscles to stay where they are supposed to be, thus curing any misalignments a student may have.


So How Do I Choose the Right Props?

     Choosing quality props is the first step in deciding which props to use, as incorporating cheaply designed props into your yoga practice can do more harm than good. Remember, just like people, all props are not made the same. At YogaDirect.com, we pride ourselves in providing you with the highest quality yoga equipment you can buy. Below, you will find a helpful list of things you should look for when you are purchasing props for your yoga practice.

YOGA BOLSTERS

   Yoga Bolsters are large, firm, pillow-like props that are most helpful to postures relating to meditation, rest, and also prenatal yoga postures. Think of it as a giant pillow.

Here's an Example...
   When lying down in Savasana, or Corpse Pose, you can put a bolster underneath your knees for support as you rest.

Yoga Props For Smart Yoga Practice

     Using props in Yoga practice is one of the best things you can do for your body, both as a beginner student or advanced. As you probably already know, every day of your Yoga practice can bring new surprises, and some days you may feel more limber than others. On those "hard to stretch" days, it's a better idea to use a Yoga prop in your practice rather than to sacrifice your form and technique. So the next time your Yoga Instructor asks you to slide into a Downward Dog that your un-stretched muscles aren't ready for, grab a Yoga Prop and you'll be on your way!