The first yoga studio that I ever walked into was the Sivananda Yoga Centre in Toronto in the early 1990s.  Eight years later, I completed my yoga teacher’s training at the Sivananda Ashram in Val Morin, Quebec.  The only “equipment” or better known as props in the yoga world that was available where yoga mats and a tiny cushion for support while sitting in a crossed-legged seated position.   

I had never heard of yoga straps, blocks, or bolsters until about 10 years after my training when I ventured into other yoga studios and enrolled in additional training at yoga conferences.  

For the longest time, I was very closed-minded to the thought of using props during a yoga class.  I had a stubborn, “purest” arrogance- “if your body needs the prop, then your body is not ready for that stretch or posture.”    I’m so glad that I changed my attitude!  Yoga props enhance yoga practice, prevent injury, support students recovering from an injury or new to yoga, and are an essential part of Restorative Yoga.  They make yoga possible and accessible to everyone. 

Prop Information, Recommendations & Resources 

I highly recommend having a quality mat, yoga strap and 2 foam yoga blocks for the regular hatha yoga classes and a bolster and blankets if you are interested in restorative yoga.    

1.    Yoga Mat

A Yoga mat is an obvious tool for yoga, and the quality and price vary from $15 up to over $100 for a high-quality mat.  At the very least, ensure that your mat is non-slip and that it remains firmly on the floor when you are practicing yoga. If you are practicing yoga more regularly, consider purchasing a higher quality mat.  I purchased poorly made mats for less than $20, and they just didn’t last.    I finally bought a high-quality Jade yoga mat that cost be around $80, and I’ve had it for close to 10 years, and there is no sign of any deterioration, so in the long run, it will save me money.  You can purchase extra-long or thick mats or mats that are eco-friendly that are made from recyclable materials.  

Price range    $15-$100

2. Yoga Strap/Belt

A rigid yoga strap is more effective than a stretchy resistance band because it provides more support and ensures that you do not overstretch muscles.  Straps are made from strong woven material, which ensures that they will last longer and won’t snap.  

A strap can create a loop that can be placed around your foot, ankle, hand or wrist, and makes it possible to hold leg stretches longer because the rest of your body can relax.   How to make a loop- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DuTRNqaYEykIt

It can also act as an extension of your arm, making it possible to grasp parts of your body that your hand can’t reach.   

A yoga strap should be 6-10 feet long.  If you would prefer to use a resistance band, make sure that it is at least 6 feet long and thicker.  

Price range     $8-$30    

3.    Blocks

Blocks provide excellent assistance in “bringing the floor up to you.”  In poses like the standing forward bend or low lunge, you can place your hands on the blocks, providing support and reducing stress on your back.   Blocks can be placed under knees or hips for support, and you can also sit on them if you find sitting cross-legged on the floor to be uncomfortable.  

Blocks are usually made of foam or cork.  Avoid purchasing wood blocks because they can be quite uncomfortable.  You should buy 2 blocks, and the 4-inch size is the best. 

Price range     $17-$30

4.  Yoga Bolster

A bolster can be used for seated postures by supporting your hips, placed under knees in savasana and support glutes and hips in bridge pose.  It can also offer support in any forward bends; seated forward bend, yin postures, diamond, child’s pose or puppy pose by resting your chest on the bolster.  Bolsters are an essential prop for most restorative yoga postures.  

Bolsters can be cylindrical or rectangular, and if you only plan on purchasing one, then I recommend the cylindrical type.  The bolster should be firm and no smaller than 24 inches in length and 8 inches in height. A bolster that is 30 inches in length and 10 inches in height is best.  

Price range     $50-$100

5.    Yoga Blanket

Mexican style blankets that are usually made cotton and very thick are the best type of blankets for yoga practice as they are versatile and so incredibly comfortable.  

Yoga blankets can be rolled or folded to offer support under knees or hips and to cover the entire body for the ultimate final relaxation/savasana. 

Price range    $20-$40

6.    Eye Pillow

Eye pillows are usually made with buckwheat seeds and can be scented or unscented.  They are lovely to place over your eyes during the final relaxation/savasana and are used throughout a restorative yoga class.  

Price     $8-$15

7.    Zafu Cushion 

A zafu cushion provides support for seated postures or meditation.  They can be filled with cotton (firmer) or buckwheat (softer).   I sit on the zafu cushion in the above picture when I’m teaching seated postures, and sometimes use it during meditation.  I’ve had mine for over 10 years, and it has travelled with me to ashrams in North America and India and shows no sign of deterioration. 

Price     $70-$90

8. Throw Cushions

You can use a variety of couch throw cushion sizes or bed pillows. They can be used to sit on or to support your hips and knees, or in any seated forward postures.

How I use props in my practice

Of course, I use a yoga mat during my practice, and I’ve had the same Jade yoga mat for more than 10 years.   I use a yoga strap for leg stretches, and some arm stretches.  I use my yoga blocks for sitting, but mostly for support in a standing forward bend, or any lunges like a low lunge with a twist in which I place my hand on a block for extra support.  I use a yoga bolster to sit on, rest my head and chest on during a forward bend, and use it throughout a restorative practice.  I love the feel of yoga blankets; they are soft, thick and so comfortable in savasana, but I also roll them up and place them under my knees.  I find that I can relax more when I use an eye pillow in savasana or during my restorative practice.

Where to purchase Yoga Props

Healthy Life Cycle

They are located in Toronto.  Free shipping for orders over $49.99. They often have sales.  Currently, a number of their items are out of stock. 

https://healthylifecycle.ca

Yoga Outlet

https://www.yogaoutlet.com   US  only  

Halfmoon

https://shophalfmoon.ca    Free shipping over $100

Dream Designs

Reasonably priced bolsters.

https://www.dreamdesigns.ca/collections/yoga

When possible, support local, small businesses.  Check out your local yoga studios, as many of them sell yoga props.  Canadian Tire, Indigo and Amazon all sell yoga props.  Amazon does have the best variety and prices, plus free shipping if you have prime amazon.  

Be well.

Anita