While yoga is considered a low-tech, back-to-basics type of exercise, some instructors and enthusiasts find it useful to supplement their program with yoga equipment. These props assist in the performance of the more challenging postures while enhancing relaxation during the restorative poses. Most of these props are used in Iyengar yoga classes, a method that is jokingly called "furniture yoga."
Purpose of Props
Flexibility, mental and physical relaxation and in some cases, strength are the three main purposes of yoga exercise. While some yoga stretches take the body through a natural range of motion, some are more extreme, and therefore require extra assistance. People whose arm and leg length limit their ability to perform certain poses get leverage from special types of yoga equipment. Other props assist in relaxation by protecting the joints from hard floor surfaces.
The Mat
The yoga mat is the most basic, and possibly the most important piece of yoga equipment. These sticky mats provide traction, which prevents you from slipping during the standing poses. Ashtanga yoga mats are thicker than traditional yoga mats, providing extra conditioning during seated postures. While some yoga studios supply mats to their students, for sanitary purposes, many students prefer to bring their own.
Blocks
Yoga blocks are either made from cork or foam. Many beginner yoga students cannot reach their hands to the floor during certain stretches. They either have to bend one knee, or perform the pose with the hand hanging toward the floor. This can cause balance problems if the pose requires you to lift the opposite leg. The yoga block provides leverage and stability. Remove the block as you gradually gain flexibility.
Straps
Yoga straps serve a similar function to yoga blocks. These cotton or nylon straps serve as an extension of the arms or legs. They eliminate the need for tensing your shoulder if your arms are too short to reach for your feet. When lying supine, wrap the strap around one foot, hold the ends and gently pull your leg toward your body.
Sand Bags
Sand bags are pouches made of silk or denim. They are filled with about 10 lbs. of sand, and usually have handles. Sandbags add weight to some of the yoga exercises. To stretch your inner thighs, sit upright with the soles of your feet together. Place one sand bag on each knee, and remain in position for at least one minute. The forces of gravity will eventually bring your knees closer to the floor.
Yoga Blankets
Yoga blankets serve two important purposes. They cushion your knees during kneeling exercises, provide extra comfort during supine, side-lying and prone exercises, and support your sits bone, or the two bones in your buttocks during seated exercises. If the yoga studio is cold, use the blankets to keep you warm during relaxation.
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