Posted on 19th May 2011 @ 2:02 PM

Yoga Blanket

One of the props used in yoga is the yoga blanket. The most basic and most versatile of yoga props, a beginning yoga student can use any blanket or beach towel when practicing yoga. It is recommended however, to use blankets that are specifically used for yoga. Blankets can be used as protective padding from a cold, hard floor but is most used folded, as a support for the head and neck in lying poses, and the hips in sitting poses.

When choosing a yoga blanket, it is advised to find tightly woven blankets such as a Mexican blanket. Yoga blankets must be firm and flat and should not be of any fabric that might sink and collapse such as a comforter or a padded blanket, since the yoga blanket is primarily used to support the body. An example of the yoga blanket's use is in support for the shoulders for inverted postures such as the Sarvangasana or shoulder stand.

When doing inverted postures, there is a risk of spine and joint injury as the body puts increased pressure with mat and the floor. The yoga blanket serves as a pad to protect the spine and joints, easing the strain off the body. This also adds comfort which aids in better concentration in getting the pose correctly done.

The yoga blanket can also be used as a cushion for handstand poses. When rolled into a bolster shape and tied, one can place it between the head and the wall, to protect the head and serve as padding against the wall. Another yoga blanket can also be used underneath the hands, so as to relieve the pressure on the body's full weight during a handstand.

One other benefit of the yoga blanket is when doing breathing exercises. The use of a yoga blanket helps expand the rib cage and open the lungs. Rolled up and placed behind the back while lying down, it gives greater freedom to the lungs when breathing, which helps it fully expand.

Last but not the least yoga blankets can also be used to keep the body warm during the final relaxation or Savasana. During Savasana or other restorative poses, the yoga blanket can also be folded to be used for comfort as a cushion under the head.

Essentially, the two main purposes of the yoga blanket is for: 1) support and 2) safety and comfort when practicing yoga poses. This is why it is very important for everyone to know how to choose the right yoga blanket to fit their needs.

Rolling Sands Harmony has a wide variety of yoga blankets that you can choose from. Their selection of Mexican Yoga Blankets would be perfect for any person's yoga needs - from mat sized blankets that a beginning yoga student can use to cover a cold, hard floor doing seated poses, or regular sized blankets that can serve as a cushion for support in lying poses. Not only do they offer high quality, hand-woven Mexican Yoga Blankets, but for the aesthetically conscious, there's also a wonderful range of color choices. These lovely yoga blankets are available on their site at http://www.rollingsandsharmony.com/ or you can order via phone at 1-800-899-6851.