What props do you really need in yoga?

Guide to Props part I. - Essentials, Basics

If you ever wondered what props do you actually need in yoga this guide will be handy for you.

First of all props are our friends, but also it doesn't mean you have to go out and buy everything right away. In a way it doesn't make it easier that we are in the midst of a pandemic and we can't even use the props that are normally available in studios, but let's see what you actually need.

Pandemic here or not I'd recommend you to get your own mat.

It is for simple hygienic reasons (especially in hot yoga studios) I wouldn't want to borrow a mat- even though I know they are properly cleaned as I have worked in studios before and cleaned them myself.

As you start out, you get away with a basic mat or even a yoga mat towel, but if you do practice more than twice a week I highly recommend you to invest in a good yoga mat.

You can see a few brands I recommend in the pictures section.

Next on is a yoga block.  

Whether cork or a foam block, if you practice at home I would definitely get one. They are inexpensive (you can easily get one even from TK Maxx for about £3-£7).

Then you have the question: Cork or foam? 

• For balances, added height or extension of the arms I definitely recommend Cork blocks. I used to only like them as I needed so much support from them(although there isn't enough block for me for a Revolved Half moon 😂)
  
  
  

• If you need a block for padding or supporting your back etc., I'd prefer a foam block as there is nothing worse than trying to put a harsh edged block under your back in some postures.

Other main difference between the two blocks is their shape and size. While cork is perfect for supported fish alongside the spine a foam can mostly be placed across the back otherwise it is uncomfortable.  

Next on: Strap. It is one of the props I rarely use. It is good for some yin poses, for some flexibility poses, but it also can build bad habits as. you might rely on passive flexibility when you use strap to be able to hold the foot in Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana and its friends.
So I wouldn't necessarily run and buy them.

Bolster, I have to say they are so amazing, but also you won't be taking them to the studio (unless you want to look like Santa Claus carrying a gigantic bag) and it is one of the props that can easily be a dust catcher in the corner. I love sitting on them, stretching on them, but if you don't practice yin at home they easily become the forgotten pillow of the house. On top of that they aren't cheap. So unless you really going to utilise them I would cross them off from your list. If you still want one, look for one filled with buckwheat or any other grain as they can be shaped and it won't loose its form after using it for a while.

Then you have all the yoga wheel, FeetUp, acupressure mats, incense, singing bowls and all the lovely things that probably you won't need. But I will get back to those in a second blogpost before this one gets too long.

All in all, Yoga is a huge huge business, and just like having a first baby you might hear that you need all the things you can get. but really you don't.

Start with basics (and no, they aren't Lululemons or Sweaty Betty leggings.)

You only need yourself and your will to step on your mat and maybe later you can invest into something that would accompany you on your journey to self-awareness.

Jai, Melinda