For the Love of Props ~

I absolutely love using props. I use them in my own practice and when teaching. Some people believe that you shouldn't use props in a yoga class, but really yoga props help make yoga accessible to everyone. They help in many ways to support you while in poses. Here are some of the most common props I like to use.

Yoga Mats ~

Yoga can be practiced anywhere and on any surface and though you do not need a yoga mat, it can be helpful. If you have slippery floors where you are practicing, a yoga mat can provide resistance. If you are practicing in or with a chair, the grip of a yoga mat can help keep the chair from sliding. Yoga mats come in different thicknesses and can add cushion and comfort when on your knees.

Benefits Include:

• Provide extra grip.

• Adds extra cushioning.

• Helps keep other props from slipping.

• Creates a designated space for your yoga practice.

Chairs ~

Chairs are a great way to make yoga more accessible. Using a chair is by no means easier or less. In fact, using a chair can be more challenging and bring greater awareness to how the body is responding to poses.

Benefits include:

• Reduce joint pain.

• Increase mobility.

• Increase strength.

• Adds an extra support.

• Elevates the body to create more space to move through poses.

Blocks ~

Blocks are one of my favorite props. They are lightweight and can be used in so many ways.

Benefits of using blocks:

• Raise the floor.

• Add relief or pressure.

• Aid in balance.

• Help transition in and out of poses.

• Elevates the body to create more space to move through poses.

Blankets ~

Blankets are a simple prop that can be used to add more cushion to joints in yoga poses. Blankets can also be used to elevate parts of the body and create more space.

Benefits of using blankets:

• Adds cushion.

• Raise the floor.

• Add relief or pressure.

• Elevates the body to create more space to move through poses.

• Helps relax into a pose.

Alternative Props ~

One benefit of practicing yoga at home is it opens the door to getting creative with what can be used as a prop. Walls, a bed, pillows, couch cushions, stairs, stools, paper towel rolls, and the list goes on.

Some Alternatives to traditional props:

• Yoga mat = hardwood floor without socks.

• Blocks = thick books or firm couch cushion, edge of coach, foot stool, paper towel rolls.

• Blanket = any lap blanket, beach towel, body towel.

• Bolster = firm couch cushion, beach towels stacked on top of each other, a blanket wrapped around a yoga mat.

• Strap = tie, belt, leggings, towel, scarf, dog leash.

• Chair = kitchen table style chair, stool, stairs.

• Massage balls = single tennis ball, 2 tennis balls tied inside a sock.