My favorite yoga props + shopping tips

One of the most frequently asked questions from students are how to find good quality yoga products. Although you don't need yoga gear to be able to practice, investing in them is worthwhile if you want to practice yoga regularly. Props are a useful way to enhance your practice, make it more comfortable and open doorways to postures that may otherwise be inaccessible. Here are my tried and true favorite essential products and where you can purchase them! I am in no way affiliated with or  benefitting from suggesting the yoga products listed below.  

Mats

• There are MANY different types of yoga mats. When choosing a mat consider the following:
  • Thickness
  • Weight
  • Grip (especially if you practice hot yoga)
  • Environmentally Friendly or not
•  If you want a thicker mat for comfort buy a thicker yoga specific mat. Rather than purchasing a pilates/exercise mat. Yoga mats are denser! 
• To prevent stains choose a darker color mat. 
• A good mat is going to cost between $50-10 but it is a worthwhile investment!

My Top Favorite Yoga Mat is the Manduka Pro Lite Mat. This mat is incredibly durable, including a lifetime guarantee, is thick enough to provide the support your body needs and isn't too heavy to tote around town.  If you practice a lot of hot yoga I recommend purchasing a Yoga towel for the top like Yogitoes. $100. 

Blankets

• The Yoga Blankets most commonly used are:
  • Mexican Yoga Blankets
  • Wool Yoga Blankets
• I recommend the Mexican Yoga Blankets because Wool can be irritating to some peoples skin. Wool blankets are also larger which makes them more cumbersome in many restorative postures.

My top pick for blankets is the Traditional Mexican Yoga Blankets from Yoga Accessories. $17/blanket

Blocks

• When purchasing blocks buy blocks that are of these dimensions:  4" x 6" x 9". Many retailers sell 2" blocks and these are not as stable or useful.
• In my opinion, Foam > Cork or Wood. Foam blocks are much more comfortable and versatile for all yoga postures especially restorative practices. 

My top picks for blocks are:
Manduka Recycled Foam Yoga Blocks. $20/block.
Gaiam Foam Yoga Blocks. $10/block.

Straps 

• Straps come in different lengths typically 6, 8 or 10 foot. Most of the yoga that I teach will work with any length so 8' is a good middle ground. 
• There are two different types of buckles on straps silver D-rings or plastic. 

My top pick for Straps are any strap with a metal D-ring! I've not found that certain brands are better than others. If you want a beautiful strap go for this one! 

Bolsters

• When it comes to bolsters there are many options and sizes and it can be fun to have a variety. 
• In my opinion an oblong one is the most widely used for most restorative postures and as a meditation prop. This shape offers is very versatile. 

​My top picks for bolsters are: 
Inner Space Yoga for a local option made regionally in NC.  These come in a variety of beautiful patterns and are very durable. $120. 
Hugger Mugger Standard Yoga Bolster. These are firm, long-lasting bolsters that come in plain colors and patterns. A yoga studio favorite. $89-99.

Other yoga props that I love and use frequently are: Eye Pillows and Coregeous balls. Coregeous balls are a non-traditional yoga prop but I use them for strategic strengthening and body massage. 

 If you're looking to add therapeutic weight in your practice go for Sandbags or a weighted blanket to cover up with. 

Happy Practicing y'all!