Yoga props are popular because they make many yoga poses (asanas) easier to practice. Many department stores and yoga boutiques sell bolsters, blocks, wedges and straps, but you can also use regular household items for yoga props. If you decide to purchase only one accessory, consider buying a yoga mat, since it can keep you from sliding during practice.
Yoga Mat
Using sticky mats for yoga is an invention of a British yogi, Angela Farmer. Prior to yoga mats, yogis used blankets or the ground. If you do not have a yoga mat, you can try using a long bath towel or a woven blanket. Although yoga is preferably practiced barefoot, you can try using gloves and socks with rubber nubs to help you stick to carpets, floors and blankets.
Yoga Strap
Yoga straps are one of the easiest props to find at home. Try a belt, tie or any strapping material which is sturdy. Use the strap to help you stretch in forward folds or to assist you with the binding of poses like side angle. Some yoga mats come with a strap carrier. This strap often can be used as a yoga prop to help with stretches.
Yoga Wedge
Making an exact replica of a yoga wedge is not necessary. Basically, a wedge is used to lift the hips up a little higher than the legs in seated yoga poses. Try using a pillow or a partially folded blanket when you practice seated forward bends, butterflies and straddle stretches. Slide your homemade yoga wedge underneath your hips to make your seated poses more accessible.
Yoga Bolster
A yoga bolster is like a thick, sturdy pillow, and yogis use them in a variety of ways. For example, many yoga students like to put a bolster underneath their upper back in fish pose or to modify relaxation by placing the bolster under their legs. Instead of buying a bolster, try using a well-stuffed bed or decorative pillow. You can also roll up a blanket and hold it together with a belt or strap to use it as a bolster.
Yoga Block
A yoga block is a versatile tool for practice. When a yoga student can almost reach the floor in poses like triangle or side angle, she can put her hand on a block, instead. Some yogis use a block for a seat in lotus or child's pose. You can also prop up one hip with a block during pigeon pose. Try using a thick book, wooden block or any other block-like object.
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