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Yoga
Props, Accessories and Equipment – An Introductory
Guide
Author:
Sundeep Sitara
This article is a guide on why
props are can be so useful in yoga (depending on the type
of yoga practiced) and what you should keep in mind when using
them and buying them.
What is a
yoga prop?
A
yoga prop is something which helps you position and align
yourself correctly within a posture, support yourself in that
posture and maintain balance. Props can be everyday objects
such as a walls, chairs, blocks, bolsters, mats, towels, blankets
or belts.
How yoga
props can help you
This depends to a great extent
on the type of yoga that you practice. Astanga yoga (popularly
known as power yoga) is characterised by relatively fast flowing
movements during which you might typically only use blocks
or blankets. In Bikram yoga, Hatha yoga and Kundalini Yoga
props are less commonly used. In
contrast, in Iyengar yoga (where the use of props in Yoga
first appeared) a wide range of props are commonly integrated
into classes and private practice sessions. For the rest of
this article I will concentrate on the use of props in Iyengar
Yoga.
Yoga postures involve extending,
exerting and relaxing your body and mind. The alignment of
your body in yoga poses is crucial if you are to get the full
benefit from your yoga practice. In Iyengar yoga props allow
more effective practice because you can hold postures more
easily, and for a longer period of time without strain. Props
therefore allow you to get deeper into a pose. In short, your
Iyengar yoga practice will be more effective, more enjoyable
and less tiring if you incorporate props into your practice
- and this is irrespective of your age, your level, or any
injury or disability which may affect you. Props also help
you conserve energy which will allow you to practice for longer
and in a more relaxed manner.
Props are
used at all levels of yoga
Regardless of your age, strength,
level, mobility or general health you will benefit from use
of yoga props. A common misunderstanding is that only beginners
use props but his is untrue. People who have been practising
yoga for years use props regularly to advance and enhance
their practice.
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