Guide To The Proper Utilization Of Yoga Props

If you are a yoga student, you may already know about the utilitarian benefits of props. Firstly, yoga is a healing modality, which does not need finesses per se. However, you have to embrace it and delve into its depth. The basic idea is to soak yourself with yogic principles, rather than taking it as a physical exercise. The 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Bali is an advanced yoga teacher training course, which will take you on a journey of discovery and experiential learning. 

In the basic course, your teacher must have already told you about the use of props. However, you may have not used them as much. The reason is quite simple to understand. You have basic postures, mostly, in the discipline. However, the next level is a lot more exciting. You can use props for various reasons, like additional support, and for balance. It also allows you to get a deeper stretch. Moreover, the type of prop you will use depends on the form or style of yoga, you are learning. 

Let us learn a bit more in detail, about the use of props in the yogic realm. 

Use Of Various Props In Yoga In The 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Bali

You will learn to use a variety of props in the realm of yoga. They include blocks, straps, blankets, cushions, and bolsters. Today, you will get to know about the benefits of each one and how you can incorporate them into your daily routine. 

Blocks – You can use blocks to correct your alignment in yoga classes. Earlier, most yoga practitioners used wooden blocks. But with time and innovation, now foam blocks are also available in the market. Blocks come in various dimensions, but the most common one is 4x6x9 inches. They are quite lightweight, but sturdy. Apart from wood and foam, cork is also used in blocks. Now, you may be wondering, how to incorporate these props into your daily yoga regime. It applies to all those postures, in which, you have difficulty reaching the ground. Using a block can give that continuity and confidence, to reach further down. You can start with the block, which is the tallest. Then, you can move downwards, and later remove them altogether. You can see many yoga practitioners using the blocks in forward folding postures. 

Additionally, you can also use the blocks under the back and legs. If you are taking up the Camel posture, you use the blocks under both hands. In the Eagle posture, you can use it as a foot stand. Use the ones with the lowest height, under both hands in the Upward Facing Dog pose. The yoga block is quite multi-faceted. So, you should consider purchasing the same, first. The teachers at Bali Yoga Retreats will teach you how to use the same, in more detail, in the 300 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Bali. 

Cushions or Bolsters – These are quite versatile, as you can use them to decorate your sofas and beds. However, they also perform the task of easing your pain, during yoga practice. You can turn an advanced and challenging yoga class, into something more viable, by using the cushions and bolsters, mindfully. If you are engaged in restorative yoga or Yin yoga, they can help you a lot. Are you still wondering, when and how to use them? 

If you are doing the Hanuman asana, or split, you can use cushions and bolsters under the groin area. Firstly, you can use two cushions, piled up on top of one another. Later, you can decrease the quantity, and ultimately remove them, when you are comfortable. Furthermore, they will also help you to protect your face, during arm balances. Many beginners often fall face-down and hurt their noses or mouth. So, you can always place a cushion in front of you, while doing postures like Bakasana or Kakasana. You can also use bolsters in the Kapotasana pose, or Pigeon pose. Many students also use them, in legs up poses, like Viparit Karani asana. So, you can also use them, with proper guidance from your teachers at Bali Yoga Retreats. 

Straps – This is another versatile yoga prop, which you can use today. These come in a variety of makes. You can deepen your stretches and also pull your appendages towards the torso, with minimal effort. If you have a tight groin area or hamstrings, you can use them. It is particularly helpful, if you can use the straps in the Paschimottasana, which is also called the Seated Forward Fold. Wrap the strap around the balls of the feet, and pull the strap towards your body. Keep the back straight, while you do so. Your posture will improve a lot. You can also use the straps in the Gaumukha asana, or Cow Face posture. Bring your hands as close to one another, at the backside. Then place the straps between them, and pull. It will create a lot of tension, which is beneficial in the long run. You will learn about the detailed use of straps in the 300 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Bali. 

Blankets – These are available in all homes, so you may not have to buy them. You can fold the blankets and place them under your buttocks, or under your head, in various postures. If you feel a lot of pain, during kneeling postures; in your knees, then these will help you manage the situation, as well. Many teachers will also suggest you use the blankets during Savasana. 

Substitutes For The Above Props 

You can also use various substitutes found in your home, if you are unable to invest in the above. Books, boxes, towels, and hankies can also help you out in your yoga practice. Learn to use them, in a creative manner. In order to know more about the advanced asanas and their right alignments, you must enroll in a course at the best yoga school in Bali. The best experience awaits you at Bali, whose environment is extremely conducive for your yoga learning and practice