Yoga is a practice that has been around for thousands of years, offering numerous physical and mental benefits.

Whether you are a yogi or a beginner just starting out, you have likely heard about the various props and accessories that can enhance your yoga practice.

Among these tools, yoga blocks are one of the most commonly used props.

You may wonder just what yoga blocks are and why they are used?

Well, yoga blocks are an invaluable addition to any yoga practice and can make a practice even more rewarding, mentally and physically.

What Are Yoga Blocks?

Yoga blocks, also known as yoga bricks, are rectangular props made from materials such as foam, cork, or wood.

They come in various sizes, typically ranging from 3 inches to 9 inches in height, with the most common size being 4 inches by 6 inches by 9 inches.

These blocks are designed to provide support, stability, and alignment assistance during yoga poses and stretches.

6 Reasons Why to Use Yoga Blocks:

1. Improved Alignment.

One of the primary reasons to use yoga blocks is to enhance your alignment during poses.

They can help you achieve proper positioning in postures where flexibility or strength is limited.

For example, if you are working on a standing forward fold (Uttanasana) and cannot reach the floor comfortably with your hands, placing yoga blocks beneath them allows you to maintain a straight back and spine alignment.

2. Increased Flexibility.

Yoga blocks can be used to increase your flexibility gradually.

Using blocks to modify poses allows you to work at your own pace, gradually reducing the block’s height as your flexibility improves.

This incremental approach to flexibility can help prevent injury and ensure a safer and more sustainable practice.

3. Enhanced Stability.

Balance is a fundamental aspect of yoga, and yoga blocks can provide added stability during challenging poses.

For instance, during balancing poses like Half Moon (Ardha Chandrasana), placing a block under your hand or foot can make finding and maintaining your balance easier.

This support allows you to confidently explore the posture, gradually building the strength and stability needed to perform it without the block.

4. Accessibility.

Yoga is an inclusive practice that can be adapted to various fitness levels and physical abilities.

Yoga blocks make yoga more accessible to individuals with limited mobility or injuries.

They offer a way to participate in a yoga class or practice at home, even when traditional poses may be too demanding.

Yoga instructors often encourage students to use props like blocks to modify poses and accommodate individual needs.

5. Deeper Stretching.

Yoga blocks can also facilitate deeper stretches by providing support and elevation.

For instance, in Pigeon Pose (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana), placing a block under your hip can alleviate pressure and allow you to relax into the stretch, ultimately enhancing your range of motion.

6. Restorative Yoga.

Yoga blocks are commonly used in restorative yoga practices, where the focus is on relaxation and rejuvenation.

By using blocks as props for supported poses, such as Supported Bridge Pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana), you can experience deep relaxation and stress relief.

What You Should Remember?

Yoga blocks are versatile and valuable tools that can benefit practitioners of all levels.

They offer support, stability, and alignment assistance, making yoga more accessible and enjoyable.

Your yoga trainer may already advise you to use blocks.

If not, they are a great option to improve your session.

Whether you’re using them to deepen your practice, recover from an injury, or enhance your overall yoga experience, yoga blocks are a worthwhile addition to your yoga toolkit.

So, the next time you roll out your yoga mat, consider incorporating these handy props into your practice for a more balanced and fulfilling journey on the mat.