Yoga Postures and Props
Whether you are a beginner in yoga or already have a regular practice, the use of supports such as the brick, the bolster and the yoga strap can allow you to evolve in certain pauses. These accessories can be used as extensions of the body in order to stretch it deeply and make it easier to take the posture. As with your yoga mat, do not skimp on the quality of your yoga accessories. Prefer eco-responsible yoga equipment.
Here are some tips for using your yoga accessories properly in your practice.
1. Using the yoga brick in the triangle pose
The triangle is an important asana in the practice of yoga. Trikonasana is a posture that stretches the legs and the entire upper body, engages the spine and engages the abdominal muscles.
When taking the posture, your teacher will advise you to place your hand either on your shin or on the ground. You will also be able to place your hand on a brick, placed vertically or horizontally, depending on your flexibility. The brick is an excellent support for this posture.
2. Using the strap in the seated pinch pose
Pashimottānāsana, the seated forward bend, is a position that can seem frustrating to a beginner. Indeed, in this posture, we want to immediately reach our ankles or feet. But, very often, the posture provides too strong a sensation in the back of the legs, which can even cause cramps or discomfort!
This is an asana that requires patience in order to see progress. For this, using the strap is really beneficial!
You will pass the yoga strap behind the soles of your feet and grasp it on each side, with one end in your left hand and the other in your right hand. Here, the strap is an extension of your arms. The more you progress in Pashimottānāsana, the closer you will be able to bring your hands to your feet, until you no longer need the strap.
Whether you use the strap or not, we recommend that you spread your elbows away from your torso, so as not to pull too much on your shoulders and to stretch your spine well without forcing.
3. Using the Yoga Wheel in Child's Pose
The yoga wheel is a little-known tool but it is very effective for many postures. You can use it as a support in the child's pose, Bālasāna. Take the posture normally, sitting on your heels and releasing your upper body forward, your forehead resting on the ground. Then, grab the hoop with your hands, in order to provide a great stretch to the back and shoulders. In this position, the neck is relaxed, so as to also stretch it gently.
4. Using the bolster in the heart opening
The yoga bolster is an accessory that yogis appreciate, because it is a large comfortable cushion. Generally, students like to sit on the bolster at the beginning of practice, for pranayama or meditation exercises. It is also possible to use it to practice heart-opening postures. You will then place the bolster under your back, between the shoulder blades. The simple fact of lying on it (making sure to be well centered) will give you a feeling of amplitude and pleasant letting go.
And you, what accessories do you use in your yoga routine?
