The Essentials

Yoga enthusiasts feel that the following pieces of equipment or props, as they are commonly referred to, are must haves when practicing yoga.

·        Mat: These are specialized mats that are designed to prevent slips and falls when performing poses. The number one priority of a yoga mat is to keep from sliding and slipping around the floor so that the user can stay steady on his/her feet and prevent injury. The type of mat to look for is commonly called a “sticky mat”. Sticky mats are made out of a textured, almost rubber-like feeling material that is able to form a grip on the floor. They come in variety of colors and sizes and are fairly inexpensive. One of the other advantages of owning a mat is cleanliness. Most gyms and yoga studios offer mats, but many people prefer to bring their own. Remember, yoga is typically practiced barefoot and there is constant contact between the mat and the user when performing the poses. There are several types of disinfecting sprays for sticky mats that are readily available in stores and online, or manufacturers recommend washing the mat with warm water and grease cutting soap.

·        Block/Brick: A yoga block or brick is an important prop to have when starting out. At first, the stretches and poses can be demanding and too advance for some beginners. Blocks help make up the difference between your hand and the floor when you don’t have enough flexibility to reach it on your own. They also assist in providing stability, support, and proper alignment, which is key in yoga. Blocks are generally made out of foam or wood and can also be referred to as bricks. Like mats, they come in a variety of sizes and colors and are generally inexpensive. When purchasing a yoga block, keep in mind that you want to look for one that is both sturdy and large enough to support your weight.   

·        Strap/Belt: Yoga straps, also referred to as belts, are a great way to increase flexibility and reduce strain on muscles, especially the hamstrings. They are generally made out of cotton or nylon and come in a range of lengths. Straps can be used in a number of poses from beginner to advanced. Yoga belts come with a buckle so that you can stay at a certain length without having to use you hands. One way to use a strap to stretch the hamstrings would be to lie on your back. Raise one leg up, place the strap over the foot and gently pull your leg toward you. You could also use the strap standing up, placing it under your feet and using it to slowly pull your body down toward the ground. Yoga straps come in a variety of forms so it should be simple to find one that meets your needs.