Five common things you find in a yoga studio
- themovingashram
- Jul 13, 2017
- 3 min read
Image by LiFE via Facebook
Most yoga studios have one to three from the list (see below) while some offers all. It all depends on the facilities each studio can provide. These common things are not the calming accessories you find inside the space but these are props that can help you deepen your yoga practice.
1. Yoga Mat
Yoga mats at LiFE
A yoga mat is the most common object a yoga practitioner needs. There is no right or wrong mat for individuals because it depends on your preference. One can use a thick or lightweight mat, slip or non-slip mat, expensive or inexpensive mat, and the like. In my case, I have a strong connection with one of my mats which I bought from Global Mala.
Lately, I realized that it does not matter what kind of mat a yogi uses as long as the practice is genuine. I've been using the lightweight mat recently out of convenience and my practice was not affected at all. You can also choose to practice without a yoga mat.
2. Yoga Block
Yogis holding blocks during a yoga practice
Also known as Cork Block, this tool can help beginners align and deepen asanas.
These are helpful especially for those working on their flexibility. If you cannot reach your toes in your forward fold these blocks can come in handy. Since flexibility is not a problem for me, I use blocks for restorative practice and for arm balances. It is comforting to sit on a block in a halfway bridge pose.
There are yoga blocks made from foam and cork for lightweight use. If you self-practice and have not invested in blocks yet, perhaps a makeshift from books or filled shoe cases would work.
3. Yoga Strap
Straps on yoga mats
Straps are used to help in alignment, balance, and flexibility. It is a great opener and gives an extra push for practitioners who are still afraid to discover what their bodies are capable of.
Yoga straps helped me in my arm balances and inversions. When my arms were still not strong enough, I used the straps to hold my arms and support my bakasana (crow/crane) and sirsasana (headstand).
The straps should be used as a support and must not cause any injury from overdoing the poses. You should listen to you body and don't get intimidated since yoga is a personal journey. Based on personal experience, straps are best used when guided by a teacher.
4. Yoga Bolster
Yoga bolsters used during a Kundalini class at LiFE
A yoga bolster or huge pillow is a common support used in studios offering restorative classes. It is also used in prenatal and Iyengar classes as well as in savasana. It is primarily used for relaxation but I once experienced using bolsters in core practice during a class.
Yoga bolsters are not usually available in most yoga studios but in case you stumble upon one then you would know what it is called and its purpose.
5. Yoga Towel
Yoga towels are perfectly combined with the yoga mats. I do not invest in towels because I prefer investing in quality mats tat are slip resistant. I recommend practitioners to invest in yoga towels especially if bringing a yoga mat is not your preference. Mats can be bulky while towels are convenient.
Photo credits: LiFE. Located at 2/F LiFemindbodysoul Center, Eight Forbestown Center, Bonifacio Global City.
Comments