Why Props Are Your Best Friend in Yoga: Making Yoga Accessible at Emerald Yoga Studio
At Emerald Yoga Studio, we believe yoga should be accessible to every body, regardless of flexibility, strength, or experience level. One of the ways we make yoga welcoming and inclusive is by incorporating props into our classes. Far from being “training wheels,” props can elevate your practice by enhancing comfort, deepening poses, and offering safe alignment support.
Read on to learn how using props can transform your yoga experience and why they’re an essential part of our studio’s commitment to accessible yoga.
Why We Love Props at Emerald Yoga Studio
Props are foundational tools that make yoga accessible to everyone, from beginners to experienced practitioners. Here’s why we integrate blocks, straps, blankets, and bolsters into so many of our classes:
Enhanced Comfort: Props provide extra support, making poses more comfortable, especially for those with tight muscles or limited flexibility.
Increased Stability: By adding stability, props help you feel more grounded and steady in challenging poses.
Better Alignment: Props can assist you in finding proper alignment, reducing strain and helping you fully experience each pose safely.
Types of Props and How They Can Benefit Your Practice
1. Blocks
Blocks are a versatile tool, providing support in a wide range of poses. Whether you’re using them to elevate your hands in a Forward Fold or to support your hips in a Seated Twist, blocks bring the ground closer to you. They’re particularly helpful for maintaining alignment and stability, allowing you to explore poses without overextending.
2. Straps
If you have tight hamstrings or shoulders, straps are your go-to. They allow you to stretch safely, even if you can’t reach your toes or clasp your hands behind your back. Straps support your range of motion, making deep stretches accessible without compromising form.
3. Bolsters
Bolsters are ideal for restorative poses and deep relaxation. In poses like Reclining Bound Angle, a bolster under the spine provides gentle chest opening and allows the body to rest fully. They’re a key component in our restorative and gentle flow classes, helping release tension and inviting calm.
4. Blankets
Blankets are incredibly versatile, adding comfort to seated poses, cushioning knees, and supporting the spine in various postures. A folded blanket can elevate your hips in seated poses, making it easier to sit with a straight spine and relax into stretches.
Using Props to Build Confidence and Prevent Injury
One of the greatest benefits of using props is that they help students feel more confident in their practice. With the support of props, students can explore poses that might otherwise feel intimidating or out of reach. For those with injuries or physical limitations, props can prevent strain and reduce the risk of injury, enabling a safe and fulfilling practice.
What to Expect at Emerald Yoga Studio
At Emerald Yoga Studio, we provide all the props you need to make each practice session comfortable and supportive. Our instructors are here to guide you through various ways to use props, offering modifications and adjustments to meet you where you are.
🌿 Pro Tip: Next time you join us for a Restorative Yin or Soulful Slow Flow class, explore how props can deepen your experience and help you feel at ease on your mat.
Props for Every Practice Level
Whether you're just starting or have years of experience, props can help you reach new levels in your practice. For beginners, props make poses more accessible, while experienced yogis find that props offer opportunities to refine and deepen their alignment. We encourage everyone at Emerald Yoga Studio to view props as supportive tools that bring the benefits of yoga within reach.
Join Us at Emerald Yoga Studio to Experience the Power of Props
Ready to experience how props can enhance your practice? At Emerald Yoga Studio, we’re here to show you that yoga is for every body, and props are a fantastic way to make each practice safe, accessible, and deeply satisfying. We look forward to guiding you through poses with the support of these incredible tools.
👉 Sign up today at emeraldyoga.com/classes to start your journey with us.