So do you need 1 or 2 yoga blocks?
I would definitely say if you’re going to invest in some yoga blocks, invest in a pair of two. Many of the ways yoga blocks are used is in helping you deepen into poses and usually requires one block, but the majority of the ways to use them for strengthening and improving flexibility in poses require two, one on each side.
Usually when you buy yoga blocks, they come in twos, unless you are buying more high end types of blocks such as bamboo, cork or wooden blocks. Foam blocks are cheaper and absolutely great to use. The choice is really what you feel comfortable using.
When you are in a pose that you feel you are struggling to stay in, you need to be using blocks.
When you do this, you are most likely not in good alignment and therefore not obtaining the full benefit of the pose.
Using yoga blocks will help prevent you from over straining yourself, improve your alignment, and get deeper into your poses. This in turn will increase your flexibility.
In the main anytime your hands are unable to touch the ground in a pose, it would be beneficial for you to use yoga blocks.
Yes, there are alternatives such as resting your hands on your shins or ankle instead, but blocks provide much more stability and comfort than doing that, which in turn helps you get deeper into the pose and improve your flexibility.
Here are a few different ways you can use yoga blocks in different poses to get better alignment and therefore get a deeper stretch.
1. Start With The Basics If you're new to using yoga blocks, start with basic poses. Use the blocks to support your body as you ease into the poses, and gradually increase the intensity as you become more comfortable. Next time you are in class grab a couple and play around and have fun as you use your blocks.
2. Use The Blocks To Modify Poses If you find that certain poses are challenging in any way, use the blocks to modify them. For example, if you have tight hamstrings and struggle to touch your toes, place a block under your hands to raise the floor and make the pose more accessible.
3. Use The Blocks To Support Your Body Use the blocks to support your body in poses where you need extra stability or balance. For example, in tree pose, you can place a block under your lifted foot for added support.
4. Use The Blocks To Deepen Your Stretches If you want to deepen your stretches, use the blocks to help you get into the pose more fully. For example, in pigeon pose, you can place a block under your hip to help you sink deeper into the stretch and find stability.
5. Use The Blocks To Help You Relax
Finally, you can use the blocks to help you relax in restorative poses for example in Yin classes. For example, in supported fish pose, you can place a block under your upper back to help you release tension in your chest and shoulders. One of my favourite poses!
With practice, you'll find that yoga blocks can be a valuable tool in your practice, helping you to deepen your stretches, improve your alignment, and find greater ease and relaxation in your yoga practice.
Here are some great ways you can use yoga blocks in various poses:
1. Downward-Facing Dog If you find that your hands don't reach the floor in this pose or have wrist pain, place a block under each hand to raise the floor and make the pose more accessible.
2. Triangle Pose Place a block on the floor next to your front foot and rest your hand on it, rather than trying to reach the floor. This will help you maintain proper alignment and deepen the stretch.
3. Bridge Pose Place a block under your sacrum (the bony part at the base of your spine) to support your lower back and allow for a deeper stretch in your hips or under the bum for a more gentle stretch.
4. Half Pigeon Pose Place a block under your hip to help you sink deeper into the stretch and maintain proper alignment.
5. Standing Forward Fold Place your hands on each block to support your upper body and help you maintain a straight, long spine.
Remember that there are many other poses where you can use yoga blocks as well. Don't be afraid to experiment and find what works best for your body. Using yoga blocks can help you modify poses, deepen your stretches, and maintain proper alignment, so give them a try and see how they can enhance your yoga practice.
Should you need any blocks let me know as I have some on offer!
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