by Susan Kristoff

Created on: November 09, 2009   Last Updated: December 23, 2009

Yoga focuses on strengthening the body and soul through postures, breathing, and meditation. While many benefits of yoga can be achieved without any tools, there are a variety of yoga products that can make your yoga routine more comfortable. None of the materials are by any means required, but some or all could make practicing yoga more enjoyable for you.

Mats

The most common product used by yoga practitioners is a mat. A yoga mat provides a non-slip surface for you to comfortably achieve all the postures in your routine. A yoga mat should be long enough for you to lie down on and perform savasana without any part of your body touching the floor. Mats are available in a variety of materials, from cotton to rubber and foam. When choosing a yoga mat, keep in mind the location where you intend to practice yoga. Rubberized or foam mats are best for bare floor or tile surfaces, since cotton mats could slide on those surfaces. However, cotton mats have a more tactile surface and allow for better air circulation in prone and supine poses. Yoga mats are available in a nearly infinite array of colors and patterns, so choose a mat that you'll look forward to seeing each day.

Blocks

Blocks are a type of yoga product that help beginning yoga practitioners gradually increase their flexibility. The blocks are placed on the floor for postures that normally require one or both hands to touch the floor. The hands are instead placed on the blocks, reducing the amount of stretch required. Blocks are also useful with people with limited flexibility who wish to experience the benefits of yoga. Yoga blocks are available in different sizes, and different materials, such as wood or high density foam.

Straps

Like blocks, straps are a yoga product that allow practitioners to gradually increase their flexibility. Straps are often passed around a foot and grasped in both hands to facilitate stretching. Straps are available in different lengths to accommodate people of different heights.

Cushions

Cushions are used by yoga practitioners for some seated poses and for meditation. Cushions are available in a variety of materials and sizes to fit any body type and provide the right amount of support. Traditional circular cushions provide support beneath the buttocks, while V-shaped cushions provide support to both the buttocks and legs during seated poses.

Bolsters and Blankets

Bolsters are long, thin cushions that are used to support the body in different poses. Bolsters can be inserted underneath the knees for supine poses or to encourage chest expansion when used lengthwise along the spine. Blankets are a multi-purpose yoga product that can be rolled or folded into thin bolsters to support the lower back or neck, or draped over your body during meditation or savasana to keep you warm.

Bags and Cases

For yoga practitioners who attend classes or travel, a bag or case is a useful yoga product. Some bags contain a long thin pouch to hold a rolled yoga mat, while others have a large section to hold cushions, blocks, or other props. Bags are available in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and materials, so choose what appeals to you most and meets your carrying needs.

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