Yoga is one of the most popular and one of the oldest forms of exercise in existence. With unique poses such as the “Locus” or the “Tree,” students can improve their overall health and flexibility. Yoga accessories can help you achieve the results you want quicker and more efficiently. The right equipment can also help you stay motivated in your pursuit of great health. The following yoga accessories are invaluable to your success in yoga —at home or in your yoga class.
Yoga Mat and Bag
A yoga mat is a definite must-have when it comes to yoga accessories. The mat is as essential to yoga as a helmet is to cycling. Yoga mats help protect and support you while you are executing yoga positions. The best yoga mats will be lightweight, will prevent slipping, and will withstand numerous washings. You can find yoga mats in any sports equipment store or yoga accessories specialty store. You can also find them in local department stores. You should also get a bag to carry the mat. Some manufactures even include the mat bag for free.
Yoga Bolsters
In addition to the supportive mats, yoga bolsters are yoga accessories that improve your poses. Bolsters are made with foam cores and are wrapped in cotton. These yoga accessories add support to your neck, lower back, and abdomen while correctly aligning your spine. They are available in a small round size or a larger rectangular size. Much like the yoga mats, these yoga accessories are washable: just remove the cover and drop them into the washer.
Yoga Bricks
To modify positions to your flexibility level, yoga bricks are necessary. Made from sturdy, non-corrosive foam, these bricks provide stability under your hands and feet. These yoga accessories can improve yoga positions to give you the ultimate stretches and flexibility. Yoga bricks are sold individually or in pairs in a variety of colors and sizes. You can find these accessories at specialty stores that sell yoga accessories or online.
Yoga Straps
As you progress in your yoga classes, you will want to achieve poses that are more challenging. The best yoga accessories for improved poses are yoga straps. Made from durable 100 percent cotton, yoga straps help to deepen stretches and can make the easiest pose more challenging. Yoga straps are made with an easy release, helping you ease out of those difficult positions. Like other yoga accessories, they come in various sizes as well — from six to ten feet in length.
Yoga Tapes
Yoga tapes are available in a variety of yoga styles and exercises. If you would rather practice yoga in the comfort of your home, you will need these yoga accessories. You might want to search the Internet for more details on the various styles before you try them. These yoga accessories are available everywhere: sports equipment stores, retail stores, yoga accessory specialty stores, and online. From “Yoga for Better Flexibility” to “Yoga for Expectant Mothers,” you can find the tape that’s right for you. Even if you do attend yoga class, these yoga accessories will motivate you to continue to practice at home.
Now that you know which yoga accessories you will need, get out there and join a yoga class or start practicing right at home. Even with all of these accessories, the best accessories you can have are your own motivation and determination.
By Tamara C. Jude