To Prop or Not

I just have got to get this written and beat the one month mark; it would be awful to post with the title “and, it’s been ANOTHER month”, even though it is pretty darn close.

I’ve been playing around with the updated website and added a stock photo to the Public Yoga Classes page. It made me think about the stigma placed on using props by some attending my classes. As if they feel compelled to say to me “I don’t need a prop!”

So, I decided to devote this blog to props, their usage and the benefits.

First, let’s talk mats — whether they cost $10 (as my original mat did) or $100, they keep us safe from slipping as we do our yoga practice each day or week.

Second - blocks. Wonderful tools to create space (for example, when trying to get a hand to the floor in triangle pose). They also can be a boon (gift) to those with tighter hips or backs when seated. Simply place two blocks in a \/ shape and sit on it with hips at the wider end of the \/ shape. The elevation will allow hip flexors to relax, the pelvis to be more upright and - all in all - provide a more comfortable sitting position for many.

Third most common prop - the blanket. Not just to keep us warm but to provide cushioning for tender knees, padding under hips during seated positions, and, in a challenging class, I’ve been asked to do down dog with feet on a blanket (great core work as one draws feet towards hands!!!).

Straps commonly help us reach those ‘unreachable’ body parts (for example, when in padangusthasana - hand to foot pose, and my arm isn’t quite long enough to allow my extended leg to straighten).

Chairs are often looked down upon. However, the right chair (one without a back, except for frame) can be used for backbend training. The pic at the right shows a combination use of chair and straps. Fun stuff!!!

Another prop I enjoy teaching with is the wall — also seen in the photo as I have my foot on the wall for stability. Most often heard phrase when doing a wall supported pose? “We Love The Wall!”

So many uses (and benefits) for all of these props that I could continue writing and writing and writing. But, this may give you a glimmer of an idea of what a prop can help one accomplish.

As BKS Iyengar said “props create an imprint”. It’s not because I ‘need’ a prop, it is because the imprint of that quote and my desire to continue using props endures.

May you all have a great week,