What to bring to your yoga practice
Updated: Jan 13, 2021
Whether you're at home, in a studio, or at the gym yoga equipment can be quite confusing. There's so many different things within different things and everyone just gets overwhelmed. Let's fix that, shall we?
As a yoga instructor of 4 years in 2021 I have definitely gone through lots of trial and error before, during, and after my certification. I hate seeing others struggle, and some even quit, due to equipment alone.
Where do I start?
“Yoga can be intimidating. Your first time? Your 200th time? There's struggles in every yoga journey. Relieving you from those stressors would just be a whole lot better, wouldn't it?”
Starting on Amazon is probably the easiest and fastest. They really do seem to have everything. As time goes on definitely feel free to add to your stash or even upgrade! But for now I will be listing a few sturdy and long lasting items that will help you a long your journey to becoming, or continuing, your yogi path.
What in the absolute MAT
You've started your journey and are shopping for a mat.
1/2, 3/4, x, a^2 +b^2, find the y...
As you're shopping you slowly begin to feel like you're back in math class just trying to find the comfort level of laying on a floor. I'm not sure about you, but I definitely don't remember half of those math classes and wouldn't have a calculator on my phone if I did. First thing's first, if your mat is too thick it can actually cause balance issues and give you some real problems when packing up and traveling. Now, if the mat is too thin it'll feel like you're sleeping on nothing but a sheet and can tear super easy. What I have found that, no matter if it is inside or outside, a mat that is about 1/2" mat is perfect! Rounded edges on the linked mat makes it so it catches less and rolls out, and in, with ease. The thickness makes it so that it lasts for quite a long time, doesn't tear as easily, and doesn't cause as many issues in your environment!
What should I bring to the mat
Now that you have the perfect mat, you've practiced a bit, and you want to improve your style. During your practices you may find others using different ropes, bricks, blankets, etc. Let's get you into that yogi spirit!
First, I recommend a strap. With a strap you can deepen your stretches, boost your balance, boost your mobility, and even improve your brain function through concentration. Instead of using an elastic band I think you should think about a fabric one. Where elastic bands are stretchy and can help improve movement and posture it could also cause harm through recoil. Fabric bands don't cause that dangerous recoil and are SO much easier to wash and store. Plus all the hair and lint in the world doesn't stick to it like it seems to on the elastic bands.
Next, you'll need a block. A block allows you to slowly deepen into different poses, prop different body parts, and even fix your posture. Straight edges can cause slight pinches and pains during use so that is a probably going to be a no. There are also different weights and hardness. Harder blocks are used more for stabilization but not so much propping and posture. If it's too soft it could do the opposite of its job as well. A slightly squishy but medium feeling block is perfect for everyday use on anything and everything. Only one block is really needed but it is really helpful to have two in some positions.
Because you've taken the time to read this far you may as well get something out of it right?! Duh. Everyone loves a good deal and hates missing out so I went searching and found a great deal! Two blocks and a strap that work perfect in any situation.
I hope you all enjoy and if you ever have any questions feel free to reach out! My Instagram has quite a few tips and trick as well!