Props ... and more props
Do you use yoga props at the studio or at home? In the past, yoga props usually meant a strap, a block, and a blanket. Now you can find all manner of back and toe stretchers, and more. At Gaiam.com, you can buy Yogacise Body Lift (for head stands), Back Wave (for back bends), or an Inversion Table. Yogaprops.net offers a Backbending Bench, a Shoulderstand Bench, and a Heart Block for chest-opening poses. Has a prop ever dramatically changed your practice?
Comments
I do use a stand (I think from Gaiam) for head stands. This helps me achieve the benefits of the pose without pressure on the neck (which sadly I am still unable to overcome on the floor). Also, because I have the extra support via my hands, my balance is strong enough to do inverted twists and splits. I find this to be pretty great as the headstand is without the support of a nearby wall remains elusive otherwise.
I do occasionally use traditional props such as blocks and blankets, but other than the headstand support I find no use for other non-traditional props.
I find that one of the great benefits of yoga is that it requires NO equipment other than the person.
Posted by: Sara Mays | April 22, 2008 04:29 PM
When I first started yoga, I was doing astanga style which did not include props. I thought props were for yoga wimps. Then, I went to an iyengar class and actually used props. WOW! Props help you get into proper alignment which frees your body and mind. I am a prop convert. I have been known to use everything from blocks to chairs to tennis balls. I even used a table and a friend to help release some spinal tension after I had a baby.
Posted by: Cheryl | April 23, 2008 04:25 PM
I have recently began teaching yoga, and I must say that I really haven't given props a try. The only thing I use is my mat and my music. I just got an amazing CD called Yoga from the Hummingbird Series. It has really enhanced my yoga workouts. Check it out at www.KosmicMusic.com In the meantime I will definitely give props a try!
Posted by: Jess | April 24, 2008 12:10 AM
Yes, I use props for teaching and for personal use. I see the look of relief and release on my students' faces when I show them how a block (or strap) can be their best friend while they work on gaining flexibility. For students with long-standing injuries or disabilities props make all the difference in whether I see them continue yoga practice or give up out of frustration.
Personally, I often use a block to help open my thoracic spine. I will begin a practice by lying on top of a block for 5 to 10 minutes to gain some length and opening. It feels wonderful and really has helped immensely.
Namaste,
Tara
Posted by: Tara | April 24, 2008 06:14 PM