Although yoga may be performed without any special equipment, yoga accessories---usually referred to as props---help a person achieve better alignment in poses. Props can maximize a stretch, make certain poses more accessible and contribute to balance. Props reduce strain and improper performance of poses---particularly for people with injuries or decreased range of motion due to age.
Yoga Mat
A good yoga practice begins with a sticky yoga mat. Make sure you purchase a mat that is made for yoga---regular fitness mats slide and are too short. If your practice calls for a lot of standing and balancing postures, a thinner mat works best. Thicker mats suit restorative practices or practices focused on kneeling and seated postures. Buy an extra long mat if you are over six feet tall.
Yoga Blocks
Yoga blocks (also called bricks) help you achieve certain poses more readily by providing support or an extension of your arm. Constructed out of wood, cork or foam, they usually run about nine inches long, six inches wide and four inches high. One block is usually sufficient, but for some beginning postures two may be recommended.
Straps
Made from nylon or cotton, the typical yoga strap runs between six and nine feet long. A buckle allows you to loop the strap for certain poses. Straps help extend your body so you can experience deeper stretches or support specific poses longer.
Bolsters and Blankets
Yoga bolsters support and soothe the body during practice. Bolsters are cylindrical pillow-like props that make certain seated and reclined poses more comfortable for the neck, back, legs and abdomen. Yoga blankets may be rolled to serve the same purpose as a bolster, or folded to provide elevation and support in poses like pigeon and simple seated pose. Yoga blankets also help practitioners stay warm during final relaxation.
Clothing
Special yoga clothing is not necessary, but make sure you have non-binding pants and a snug shirt for optimal comfort. Extremely baggy clothing may impede certain poses like downward facing dog. Yoga is practiced barefoot, but if you find this uncomfortable, you may find special yoga socks with rubber grips to assist you in your practice.
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