Yoga blocks are one of my favorite tools to incorporate into class! They’re great for beginners to make many poses easier and more accommodating. Whether you’re struggling with tight hamstrings, limited flexibility, or a lack of core strength, yoga blocks can provide you with the support and stability you need to practice with confidence.
These versatile props help to bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be in your practice. They allow you to modify and adapt poses to your individual needs, making them accessible to practitioners of all levels. Yoga blocks can be used to “bring the floor closer to you”, providing extra height and stability in poses such as standing forward fold, triangle pose, or runner’s lunge. They also provide a comfortable surface to “prop” on in restorative poses so that you can rest deeper into the stretch.
But yoga blocks offer more than just physical support. They can also be used as a tool for mindfulness and self-exploration. By bringing awareness to how your body feels in different positions and using the blocks to find your own unique expression of a pose, you can deepen your understanding of your body and its capabilities (and release energy blocks!). This mindful approach to yoga can help you cultivate a sense of presence and connection to the present moment.
One of the most rewarding things about using yoga blocks is the journey of progress they facilitate. As you continue to practice and build strength and flexibility, you may find that you need the blocks less and less. They become a tangible representation of your growth and a reminder of how far you’ve come on your yoga journey. And if you ever find yourself needing that extra support again, the blocks are always there to provide it.
Incorporating yoga blocks into your practice can be a game-changer. They offer support, stability, and the opportunity for exploration, allowing you to deepen your yoga practice and improve your alignment. So next time you step onto your mat, grab a couple of blocks and see where they take you. Your body, mind, and spirit will thank you!
Let’s dive into the world of these magical props and uncover their secrets. We’ll grab you some tips on how to embrace the power of yoga blocks, choose the perfect set for you, and unlock all of the fabulous benefits they bring to your practice.
What are yoga blocks?
Yoga blocks are small, rectangular blocks that are made from a variety of materials, including foam, wood, and cork. The foam ones are what most people are going to want due to their comfort and malleability. They have the appearance of a brick but bigger (the cork and wooden ones FEEL like bricks which make them less comfortable, yet arguably more aesthetically pleasing).
Although they are all about the same size, they may vary a bit between makers so you want to make sure the 2 you use in your poses are of equal size, so as to avoid disproportionate weight distribution and strain on your body.
Yoga blocks are incredibly helpful tools that can enhance your yoga practice. They provide support and assistance in various poses, allowing you to deepen your stretches and improve your body alignment. These versatile props can be placed under your hands, feet, or hips, providing you with the necessary stability and comfort to explore and expand your practice.
Other ways to use yoga blocks
One of the primary uses of yoga blocks is to bring the floor closer to you, especially when flexibility or range of motion is limited. For example, if you find it challenging to touch the ground in a forward fold, placing a block beneath your hands can elevate the height and make the pose more accessible, enabling you to experience a deeper stretch in your hamstrings and spine.
Yoga blocks are also beneficial in balancing poses. Placing a block under your hand or foot can provide a stable foundation and minimize wobble, helping you find better alignment and maintain the pose for an extended period. It’s particularly advantageous for beginners who are still developing their center and sense of balance.
Furthermore, yoga blocks can be utilized to deepen stretches and open up the body. By incorporating blocks into poses like pigeon or supported bridge, you can modify the intensity of the stretch and strength required according to your comfort level. The blocks allow you to gradually progress at your own pace, gradually releasing tension and tightness in targeted areas of your body.
Inversions, such as supported headstand or shoulder stand, can also be facilitated by yoga blocks. These props can provide additional support under the shoulders or head, reducing the strain on your neck and allowing you to focus on stability and alignment. This support can be particularly helpful for individuals with neck or shoulder issues who want to experience the benefits of inversions without compromising their safety.
In conclusion, yoga blocks are indispensable tools that can enhance your yoga practice, regardless of your experience level. They offer stability, support, and assistance in alignment, enabling you to explore a wide range of poses effectively and safely. Incorporating yoga blocks into your practice can help you deepen your stretches, improve your balance, and experience the full benefits of each pose.
How to choose the right yoga blocks for you
When picking out yoga blocks, you have to think about a few things like what they’re made of, how big they are, and what shape they come in.
The material of the block makes a big difference in how it feels against your body. Foam blocks are super popular because they’re soft and comfortable. Wood blocks are tougher and give you a more solid surface. If you’re allergic to latex, cork blocks are a good alternative because some foam ones have latex in them.
Shape matters too! You can get rectangular blocks that work for all sorts of poses (and are the best ones to start out with as they’re simpler to use). Or you can go for the triangular ones that are designed specifically for poses like Downward-Facing Dog and Triangle Pose.
Yoga blocks are seriously handy tools that can help take your practice to the next level. They support your body and help you get the most out of each pose. Whether you’re new to yoga or just looking to up your game, yoga blocks are definitely worth the investment.
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About the Author
S.S.Blake; Spiritual Life Coach, Yoga + Meditation Teacher and Founder of Earth and Water
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