How do I get started?
The hardest part about starting anything is actually starting. The nice thing about yoga is that you really just need yourself, a curious mind and a yoga mat to begin exploring the practice. If you go to a studio, then you’ll probably want your own mat, but they usually rent ones if you prefer. Studios supply additional props for students’ use. If you practice at home, then there are a few other props that aren’t necessary, but might be nice to have.
Yoga Props that can help to Support Your Practice
(Essential)
Yoga mat - Necessary so that you don’t slip and slide while moving through poses. A mat also helps to cushion your joints and creates a designated space for your practice.
(Nice to have)
Yoga block - When the ground feels far away, a yoga block (or two) helps to bring the ground closer to you. Blocks are also great tools to help you find certain muscular actions in the body. I always have a block nearby whenever I do yoga.
Yoga strap - Another great tool for helping do things like touching our toes when our toes feel very far away. Straps are great to have because they allow us to gradually deepen into poses without forcing our bodies.
(Great for a more restorative practice)
Yoga Bolster - A bolster is a large, usually rectangular, pillow that can be used for more restorative poses. The pillow supports your body and allows you to completely relax into the pose.
Yoga Sandbag - Sandbags adds weight and pressure to poses like Child’s Pose and Savasana and can help to calm the nervous system in the same way as a weighted blanket.
Eye Pillow - A really nice way to add comfort to the end of your practice. Placed over the eyes during Savasana, the final resting pose, an eye pillow blocks out the light and helps to bring you into a deep state of relaxation.