Posted on 19th May 2011 @ 2:00 PM

Yoga Blocks

For starting yoga practitioners, as soon as they purchase their starter yoga kit they're presented with the essential yoga props used in the art of practicing yoga: a yoga mat, yoga straps and yoga blocks.

Although some might think that using yoga props such as yoga blocks might be cheating since expert yogis seldom use props in their practice of yoga, this is far from the truth. Props such as the yoga block help individuals to easily execute a pose, which brings them the benefits of what a properly executed pose can do without the hassle and strain.

Expert yogis have had many years of practice. Beginning yoga practitioners shouldn't have to be pressured if they aren't able to do a pose perfectly on their own. With the aid of props such as the yoga block, this eases them through. And with enough practice, the hard poses can then be done easily without an aid.

Yoga blocks are used primarily in standing and seated poses which adds extra length to the lower arm. Yoga blocks are also used for support during lying poses. The blocks provide extra flexibility to those who have a limited range, which in turn maximizes their ability to perform different types of yoga poses.

One of the commonly asked questions when choosing a yoga block is what size should be used. As yoga blocks come in different sizes, when choosing a size, it depends how one will be utilizing it as well as their own flexibility. Since yoga blocks are used to give more range to those with limited flexibility - people should consider their current flexibility capability when choosing the height of their yoga block. The Rolling Sands Harmony site provides an excellent guideline on their site on what size to use when purchasing a yoga block.

Yoga blocks usually come in the form of wood or foam and more recently, the environment friendly cork and bamboo. When choosing what type of material to get, for a yoga block, it is up to the individual. Wood is more firm, while foam gives a bit more cushion.

For those that don't like the chemically made foam, cork has become one of the more popular choices for the environment conscious. The cork yoga block is made out of renewable and sustainable cork which is also a biodegradable material. Similar to foam blocks they are have a soft texture and slip resistant.

For those looking for a more environment friendly alternative to wood blocks, the eco-friendly yoga block choice is bamboo. Bamboo is another sustainable material. Unlike trees (where wood yoga blocks are made from), bamboo is a fast growing plant. Similar to wood yoga blocks, bamboo blocks have less give and are less slip resistant than foam and cork - so they'll need to be properly placed to avoid any slips.

As always, it is a matter of the individual's needs and preference that governs the choice of what type and what size of yoga blocks to use. To find out which one fits your own needs when practicing yoga - you can visit the Rolling Sands Harmony site (http://www.rollingsandsharmony.com ) which as a wide array of yoga blocks to choose from, as well as helpful tips that will help you find the perfect yoga block choice for you.