4. Essential Yoga Equipment
Getting Started
Just as a runner needs a good pair of running shoes, you’ll need some essential pieces of equipment, called yoga props, to get the most out of your practice. As your practice develops you may also wish to invest in other props or accessories that will give you greater versatility.
Essential Yoga Equipment
A Yoga Mat (1/8”x 24”x 68”): A yoga mat provides a stable and comfortable surface for your practice. Yoga mat will prevent your feet, hands, and elbows from slipping on the floor and give your body cushioning and protection from cold floors.
A yoga strap. (1.5”x 6”-8”): A yoga strap assists in stretching and deepening your poses. Proper yoga straps are made of tightly woven cotton webbing and are finished with steel D-ring buckles or plastic cinch closures. A strap allows you to extend the length of your arm so you can modify poses for your ability level. They can also be used as traction devices and for securing your limbs in restorative postures.
A set of yoga blocks (4”x 6”x 9”) : Yoga blocks help modify poses and increase flexibility. A set of solid cork blocks will allow you to support yourself in postures in which you might otherwise have to reach all the way to the floor.
Blankets: Yoga blankets provide additional cushioning and support during seated poses and can also be used for warmth during relaxation. You’ll need one to two heavy weight blankets to be enough to cover your body from head to toe. Blankets can be folded, rolled, stacked, and rearranged in a thousand ways to adapt postures, and offer you cushioning and warmth as well. Avoid using quilts, bedspreads, and nylon blankets as these offers too little support. They can also be used as traction devices and for securing your limbs in restorative postures.
Yoga Bolster (Standard rectangular size 28”x 12”x 5” )Yoga bolsters are wonderful props to have on-hand. These feel-good props are similar to body pillows, but firmer and typically rectangular in shape. They are supportive anatomically and typically used to create relaxation, help soften postures, and aid in opening the body.
