Yoga Props

The first yogis did not use props such as foam blocks and sticky pink mats. Yoga has evolved though, and many people have found that props can help them deepen their exploration of the practice.

There are many different views on props among modern yogis. Some of them practice a Zen-like minimalism that includes nothing but sticky mat and then there are those who carry a suitcase filled with props. No matter where you are in the spectrum there are a few tips that can help you get the most of the props you do have.

The first step is to be mindful of why you are using them. Just mindlessly using a block during a standing pose because your teacher told you to will not deepen your experience. Ask yourself why you need the extra support; that answer should guide your decision to use or not use a prop. If you are using a prop to achieve a pose because you are not flexible enough then you need a plan of how to decrease your dependence on the prop over time.

Your body's signals should be your teacher. If a part of your body is crying out for support during a pose, then try using a towel to support that body part and see what happens. If you are struggling with a pose then ask yourself what you have in arm's length that may help. Your ingenuity may surprise you.

You should explore new things when you practice with props. If you use a rolled up blanket to support your back during a pose, then see what happens when you vary the size or position of the prop. If you are using a prop to understand the action of a post that you know well, then try the pose without the prop and explore the difference.

Yoga teaches us to be more flexible and adaptable. Do not become so attached to your props that you cannot even imagine practicing without them. When you use props regularly explore what it is like to go without them. If you have a minimalist practice then occasionally incorporate props into your practice. Just keep in mind that the most important yoga prop is an open mind.