Yoga props are not just for beginners. In reality, using props can benefit even the most advanced student. Whether you want to challenge yourself more by using props or you want to slow things down for a more restorative class, props come in handy.
Yoga blocks can be used in a variety of ways to challenge even the most experienced students.
Baddha Konasana
Use the block between your legs to create a challenging Baddhakonasana or Bound Angle Pose. Place the block between your feet after you have taken your normal pose. Place the block so that its narrow side faces up, and then press your bottoms into the wider sides.
If you can, hold on to your ankles and try to fold forward as you would normally. Hold on to your ankles if you can and fold forward like you normally would, without forcing it or rounding your spine. If you are unable to hold onto your ankles, place your hands behind you.
If you don’t feel much difference, turn the blocks back to the middle and try again. Now your feet are further apart. Check that your knees are not being strained.
Warrior III
Place the block with its wide side facing upwards on your mat. Step with your left foot onto the block. Bring your hands up to your hips, and exhale while you lift your bent right leg.
Start by hinging forward at your hips, sending the right leg straight in the direction of your Warrior II. Hold your hands to your hips or extend your arms outward while standing on the block. After 5 breaths or so, start to get out of this pose by bending your right knee and raising it high. Step down. Repeat the same process on the opposite side.
Dandasana
In Staff Pose, sit tall with your legs stretched forward. Grab the block and hold it between your fingers. Then, extend your arms straight in front of your body, with the wide side of the block facing you.
Raise your arms above your head. You should have your arms at shoulder height. Repeat this for 30 seconds and then lower your arms straight in front. Focus on your breath, not the arms.
Chair Pose
Take the block in your hands and come up into chair position. Line up your arms with your ears and reach up. You can see your toes by keeping the knees forward. Also, send the sitting bones further back. Try to tilt your pelvis forward to reduce any back arching. Repeat for 30 seconds.
Bridge Pose
Squeeze the block as you lift your hips. This will activate your inner thighs. Squeeze the block as you lift your hips.
Hold for up to 1 minute and repeat. Repeat for up to a minute. Here is a great visual.
What are your favorite modifications and tips for incorporating yoga blocks into your practice? Please share your favorite changes and tips!
