Yoga is no different than any other sport or activity, at least regarding amount of equipment that you may need to buy. While it is easy to get caught up in buying the next neat item, which products are truly beneficial and whose needs will they serve? Many yoga props are unique in that they will serve both the novice and the experienced ‘yogi’.

Yoga takes years to master, and its daily practice results in physical and mental strength, restoration, and balance. Yoga is about "feeling a pose" and concentrating on all of the dynamics involved. Unlike other sports, yoga is not just about going through the motions and getting it done.

Because of this unique feature, yoga props play an instrumental role in helping out the practitioner. The props allow the individual to get into, hold, and focus on a particular pose without being distracted by not being able to do a certain part of the move. The beauty is that yoga has a natural progression toward more difficulty, so a yoga prop will not need to be discarded. Yoga props will have a place in any practitioner's arsenal.
 
Perhaps the most common yoga props are blocks and straps. These items will be especially useful for novice yoga practitioners, since they typically have limitations in range of motion. The blocks and straps alleviate some stress created by excess stretching and they allow for more comfortable positioning. These items can also be used to hold positions for a longer period of time so that the body can make necessary adjustments and allow it to "get better" at yoga.
 
Blankets, padding, and bolsters are used to add increased cushion and support during yoga. Blankets are very versatile since they can be folded and stretched out. They can give support without being rigid. The blankets may be placed under the feet, knees, and as a pad for sitting poses. Bolsters are similar to pillows but come in different shapes which allows them to better conform to yoga practice. These allow for increased enjoyment of meditation poses, and come in different amounts of firmness. Other pads and bolsters help position the body to get into optimal breathing poses. Many are available with calming aromas and soothing herbs.
 
Yoga balls, meditation stations, and benches for the back are also popular yoga items. Yoga balls are similar to physio-balls and are excellent for stretching and developing core strength. Meditation stations are cushioned and offer support for various body parts. These create a comfortable place so that the practitioner can really connect mind and body. Back benches either support the back or allow for varying levels of extension and inversion. These positions open up the back and chest cavity and allow for deep stretches and strength development in the upper body.
 
Yoga props should be considered by all yoga practitioners. Whether someone is looking to get started or looking to become a true yoga master, these tools can be invaluable. Look at your experience, evaluate your limitations, set your expectations, and then make the appropriate yoga prop purchase.

Manny Escalante, Jr. MA, ATC, CPT has a Master's Degree in Sports Medicine,

Certified Athletic Trainer, and Certified Personal Trainer.

Competed in bodybuilding and a 3 time Ironman Triathlon Finisher