If you use props, you know that they are useful. Props allow us to access poses that our bodies can’t quite reach on their own; they also give us a way to make asana relaxing. In Yin Yoga, they allow the body enough support so that the practitioner can focus on releasing tension and holding a gentle stretch that includes the fascia as well as the muscles; in a Restorative practice, props give us permission to let go absolutely and concentrate on our breathing.
At the present moment, you may or may not own your own props. If you don’t, I’m here to encourage you to make that leap: while it’s always possible to work without the props or to use what you have (pillows for bolsters, a towel for a strap, a hardback book for a block), it’s nice to have something tailor-made for yoga. Getting the props out and setting them up around your mat becomes a sort of entry ritual for class: as you move the props and consider what you’re about to do with your body, you give yourself permission to leave your ordinary life and enjoy your yoga time. “Sacred” is a strong word, but I do think of my practice as a way to connect with the Universe and the Divine. Thus, I like to have specific instruments that I only use when practicing; like my mat, they help my brain to move towards a different space.
Probably the first prop you should consider purchasing is a block, for the simple reason that they are thicker and wider than the average book. REI.Com offers various materials (cork, recycled foam) and sizes. Full disclosure here: I’m a co-op member, so the store is my go-to whenever possible; you’ll also find good choices at Alo Yoga, Lululemon, and other yoga- and athletic stores. (You can of course shop at Amazon, but why not keep the cash within the yoga community?) If you can, get two or more blocks; being able to sit on one and recline onto another in Supta Virasana or Reclined Hero Pose is an amazing experience, as is Supta Baddha Konasana, or Reclining Butterfly) with a block under each knee.
Another extremely useful prop is an eye pillow. I used a towel to cover my eyes for many years, but recently broke down and splurged; you can read about it here. I’m loving the way it has transformed my Savasana and can’t (or don’t want to) imagine practicing without it.
Bolsters are more expensive, but they are firmer than pillows, making them nice supports for your knees in Savasana or your hips in Sukhasana. My go-to is REI.com, but that’s not the only place you’ll find them. And again, I would suggest that you keep the money flowing to yoga practitioners and athletic companies rather than support big box stores. You might even call your local yoga studio and see if it can order supplies for you — what a wonderful way to keep a local business going during this pandemic!
Are there other props that you find essential? Let me know! And do tell if you have a different go-to store for your yoga purchases!
Yoga Cielo Stellato 