Last Updated on April 2, 2024 by Francis
Yoga is a popular form of exercise that has been around for centuries. One of the tools commonly used in practicing yoga is the yoga block. But what is a yoga block and what is it used for? In this article, we will explore the purpose and benefits of yoga blocks in yoga practice.
Understanding the Purpose of Yoga Blocks
Yoga blocks are essential props that can help you advance in your yoga practice. They are small rectangular blocks made from different materials such as cork, foam, or wood, which can help you modify or deepen your yoga postures. Yoga blocks are used to create stability, alignment, and balance, and they can help you achieve proper form and alignment in your practice.
The Benefits of Yoga Blocks
There are several benefits of using yoga blocks, including:
Improved alignment: Yoga blocks can help you achieve proper alignment and form in your yoga postures by providing extra support, which can help you maintain your balance and stability.
Increased flexibility: Yoga blocks can help you increase your flexibility by providing a surface to support your body in different postures.
Reduced risk of injury: Yoga blocks can help you reduce the risk of injury by providing extra support and stability in challenging poses.
Different Types of Yoga Blocks
There are various types of yoga blocks available on the market, including cork, foam, and wood blocks. Each material has its unique advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of block material largely depends on personal preference and the type of yoga practice.
Cork Blocks
Cork blocks are environmentally friendly, sustainable, and offer excellent grip and support. They are firm and durable, making them ideal for more challenging postures. Cork blocks are also lightweight and easy to carry, making them perfect for traveling.
Foam Blocks
Foam blocks are lightweight, soft, and easy to grip, making them ideal for beginners or those who prefer a softer feel. They are available in various sizes, making them suitable for different body types and yoga practices.
Wood Blocks
Wood blocks are sturdy, durable, and provide excellent support and stability. They are also eco-friendly and aesthetically pleasing, making them a popular choice for many yoga practitioners. However, wood blocks can be heavy and challenging to carry, making them less ideal for traveling.
How to Use Yoga Blocks
Yoga blocks can be used in various ways to modify or deepen your yoga practice. Here are some common ways to use yoga blocks:
Support in seated postures: Yoga blocks can be used to sit on, providing extra height and support, which can help to maintain proper alignment and ease pressure on the hips and lower back.
Support in standing postures: Yoga blocks can be used to provide extra support and stability in standing postures, such as Triangle or Half Moon.
Support in backbends: Yoga blocks can be used to provide support in backbends, such as Bridge or Wheel, by placing them under the shoulder blades or hands.
Alignment in forward folds: Yoga blocks can be used to improve alignment in forward folds, such as Forward Bend, by placing them under the hands or feet.
FAQs – What Yoga Blocks Used For
What are yoga blocks?
Yoga blocks are rectangular or square props made from materials such as foam, cork or wood. They come in different shapes, sizes and densities and are used in yoga practice to enhance alignment, increase flexibility, and provide support.
How are yoga blocks used?
Yoga blocks can be used in a variety of poses to make them more accessible or to deepen the stretch. For example, they can be used as a support in standing balances, to help maintain alignment in poses like Triangle, or as a tool to sit on in seated poses to elevate the hips and increase length through the spine. Blocks can also be used in restorative yoga to support the body in gentle, relaxing poses.
What are the benefits of using yoga blocks?
Yoga blocks can help you get into postures that may otherwise be unavailable due to tightness or injury, and also help you to maintain proper alignment within postures. They can create space in your body, allowing you to move deeper into your practice, and can even help to make some challenging poses more accessible over time. Additionally, blocks can allow you to sustain postures for longer periods and make some restorative poses more comfortable.
Which yoga block should I choose?
The type of block you choose depends on personal preference or the specific needs of your practice. Foam blocks are lightweight and provide a little give, while cork blocks are heavier and sturdy, which makes them great for balance poses. Wood blocks are usually the heaviest and most durable, but not as common as foam or cork.
Are yoga blocks only for beginners?
Absolutely not! Yoga blocks can be used by yogis of all levels. Beginners may find them particularly helpful in gaining flexibility and stability, but experienced yogis can also benefit from using blocks to deepen their practice, build strength or find a new perspective on a familiar pose.
Where can I buy yoga blocks?
Yoga blocks are easily available in sports stores, online platforms, and yoga studios. They are affordable, and you would not have to spend beyond your budget to purchase some top-quality yoga blocks for your practice.
