Shanti Arunkumar

Introduction A simple object that we use to practice yoga poses is a yoga prop. In ancient times, yogis performed asanas without props, but in the modern times, they play a very important role in yoga. These props are very beneficial for the individuals who are less experienced in yoga. Sometimes the unachievable poses can be done through the use of props. Also the props make the poses safer and have various health benefits as well. These props also help an individual to get more creative in the yoga practice. Props also give freedom and space to learn new techniques. Many new props have been introduced and there are few props which have been used for years and years. B.K.S Iyengar was the pioneer who had introduced the extensive use of props in yoga to help the beginners and inexperienced students of yoga. His influence on the use of props in modern yoga is noteworthy. To learn more about the benefits of using props, both for beginners and advanced levels, head here. Table of Content Mats Bricks or Blocks Yoga Bolsters Yoga Belts/Straps Blankets Chair Conclusion References There are various kinds and varieties of yoga props but the main 6 types of yoga props are: 1. Mats The most essential type of prop in yoga is the yoga mat. Nowadays without the mat, yoga is not possible. In ancient times, yogis practiced on a bare ground with a deer or tiger skin rug. Modern mats are made of plastic or rubber. The mats used in yoga are usually moist in texture. These mats provide a surface which reduces the unwanted movements. Due to the parallel lines in the mat, the alignment in various poses is possible. It helps in facilitating or extending the pose. 2. Bricks or Blocks Wooden bricks /blocks were introduced by B.K Iyengar in yoga. Yoga blocks and bricks enhance the yoga practice. Few people who are stiffer and inexperienced find it difficult to do a finished pose. With the help of these bricks and blocks, one can do impossible poses with ease. For example, in half-moon pose, one places the hand on the brick instead of the floor. It also provides a podium for shoulder stand. Surya namaskar or the sun salutation can also be done with the help of blocks. Crow pose is difficult to do if one is not flexible and cannot lift the hips. Using the blocks, one can do a crow pose. In some poses, you can use a single block while some asanas require a stack of two blocks. To learn about the 10 different types of yoga asanas and how to do them, head here. Bricks and blocks are used extensively as it raises the floor and can be used as lengthways depending on the need of the practitioner. Blocks play a very important role in sitting positions. Blocks are used in a child’s pose as well by placing them between calves and heels. 3. Yoga Bolsters Yoga bolsters are known as the king of all the props. They help in restorative poses which thereby helps to support the body in a state of relaxation. And they are used in other yoga practices as well. One can place them under the spine. In this way, bolsters help support the spine and also help in balancing core work. Bolsters are beneficial in Natarajasana pose where the practitioner stands in the middle of the bolster and gaze on the floor or wall in front of them. One can use bolsters not only in balancing poses but also for fine-tuning the position. The kneeling pose is quite difficult because it requires coordination which becomes easier with the help of yoga bolsters. Bow pose is quite challenging for most of the students but with the help of bolsters by keeping them below the lower abdomen, one can do the stretching without any pain in the lower back. In this way, yogis use bolsters widely as they lengthen the spine and ensure safety during inversions. 4. Yoga Belts/Straps Whether the person performing yoga is an experienced yogi or a beginner, a strap helps with both support and maintaining alignment and posture. Yoga belts/straps not only provide support but they also help to build up the flexibility. Yoga straps are quite helpful for stretching the arms, shoulders and sides of the body. Few poses in yoga require opening the shoulders. These straps make it possible to not only open the shoulders but also keep the movement stay comfortable. They are used to open the hamstrings. One can do Bound Angle using the straps as they help in stretching the inner thighs and hips. These belts are a simple cotton belts which have a sliding fastener. The straps are not like any resistance belts as they are very sturdy and also varies in thickness and length. In this way yogis use belts/straps in various asanas as a supportive framework and in the extension of limbs. The strap or belt should be long enough so that variety of poses can be done. 5. Blankets The most obvious use of blanket is staying warm during Savasana and meditation. Head here to learn about different types of silent meditation, their benefits and which one might be the most suitable for you. One can also use it as a support in restorative poses. Blanket is an everyday object. Yogis use it as a cushion for the knees, elbows and wrists. It is quite challenging for some people to keep the spine straight in a seated position. Blanket helps to gain height in sitting poses. Those having tight hips find it tough to do various postures like a child pose, half pigeon etc. Blankets fill the gap for less flexible people. It not only makes the poses hip friendly but also less scary. These blankets are made of cotton polyester acrylic blend. They are quite affordable and durable in use. 6. Chairs Chairs in yoga can be used in a sitting position as well as in a standing position where the chair is used for support. One can also use it in a work place or in a place with limited mobility. They are used in various poses like seated cat crow pose, seated chest opener, chair pigeon, seated forward fold etc. The most common pose done with yoga chair is downward facing down pose where it helps lengthening and the integrity of the spine. Chair is also useful in exploring the back bending and an inversion. Conclusion: These are the 6 main props used in yoga that provide support for beginners and people with physical limitations. They not only help yoga practitioners during difficult poses but also help in preventing unnecessary strain or injury to the body. In this way these props are used all over the world extensively due to their benefits and they are quite convenient to use and pocket-friendly to own. All the props are easily available online as well as various fitness stores. These props not only enhance the poses but also support the body in weight-bearing exercises. If you're not up for spending money on yoga props, here are 4 top home based alternatives that you can start using. References https://triyoga.co.uk/blog/yoga/yoga-props/ https://www.yogabasics.com/connect/yoga-blog/how-to-choose-the-perfect-yoga-block/ https://www.yogaanytime.com/Yoga-Blog/892/7-Common-Yoga-Prop-Substitutions http://www.heliotrope-yoga-holidays.com/yoga-prop.html https://www.aurawellnesscenter.com/2012/02/11/what-is-the-significance-of-yoga-props/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga_mat https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga_brick https://www.yogajournal.com/practice/yoga-bolster https://www.doyou.com/10-ways-to-use-the-yoga-strap-with-photos-55570/ https://yogakali.com/yoga-gear/best-yoga-blankets/ https://www.allinahealth.org/healthysetgo/move/five-benefits-of-chair-yoga-and-six-poses-to-get-started Shanti Arunkumar, Senior Contributor At L’Aquila Active Learn more about Shanti by reading her bio below. 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