Yoga Blocks: The Ultimate Tool for Support and Stability

Yoga blocks are a smooth block of wood or of firm but comfortable material, such as hard foam rubber or cork, used as a prop to elevate your yoga practice. They help in providing support, stability, and alignment during poses. They help in extending reach and offer safety in challenging poses. They are a helpful prop if you want to enhance your practice to another level.

Key Functions of Yoga Blocks

Yoga blocks help to boost yoga practice by serving required support, making it more accessible and effective. Here are the key functions of a yoga block:

1. Offering Support: Yoga blocks offer physical support in challenging poses, allowing the body to achieve proper alignment and maintain stability.
2. Alignment: Yoga Blocks help to ensure the body alignment is correct by providing extra height or cushioning. This is extremely helpful in poses which require forward bending, back bending or standing poses like Ardha Chandrasana (Half Moon Pose).
3. Increases Flexibility: Yoga blocks help in deepening the stretches and provide a more comfortable way to access a greater range of motion without putting extra strain on the body.
4. Balance: They provide added stability and balance while performing certain poses like Vrksasana (Tree Pose) or Virbhadrasana III (Warrior III Pose). Placing a block under the hand or foot can prevent wobbling, making it easier to hold poses for longer.
5. Elevation: Blocks help in elevating the hips in seated poses, such as Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Fold Pose), to release tension in the lower back and make the pose more comfortable.
6. Deepening Poses: Blocks can assist in deepening certain poses, for example, they can be placed between the thighs in Setubandha Sarvangasana (Bridge Pose) to engage the inner thighs more or under the hands in Adho Mukho Svanasana (Downward Dog Pose)  to improve posture and strength.

Types of Yoga Blocks

1. Wooden Yoga Blocks

Wooden blocks are excellent in providing support and durability as they are hard and sturdy. They are perfect for advanced practices as they provide a solid base.

2. Cork Yoga Blocks

Cork is a natural material, making it an attractive choice for yoga practitioners concerned about ecological impact. It provides a good grip, and since it is naturally waterproof, it usefully resists absorbing sweat. Cork yoga blocks are comparatively lighter than wood and provide a good balance of comfort and support. It’s easy to travel with as it’s lightweight.

3. Foam Yoga Blocks

Foam blocks are lightweight, soft, and easy to handle. They are comparatively lighter than cork which makes them convenient to carry around. They provide gentle support, making them a great option for beginners or those needing extra cushioning in poses.

4. Infinity Blocks

Infinity blocks are designed to be versatile and flexible to support various poses like Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Dog Pose) and Chaturanga Dandasana (Four Limbed Staff Pose). It offers invaluable support for individuals with weaker neck and shoulders, promoting a safer and more comfortable practice.

5. Quarter Round Blocks

Quarter round blocks have a curved shape, generally used for shoulder and back support. It is beneficial for specific postures like Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Dog Pose).

6. Triangular Blocks

Triangular blocks are designed with three sides with different dimensions. This shape helps support the body in varied poses, such as Utthita Parsvakonasana (Extended Side Angle Pose) or for elevating the hips in certain poses like Viparita Karani (Legs Up the Wall Pose) offering varied height options for different needs.

Benefits of Using Yoga Blocks

1. Enhances Alignment: Blocks assist in maintaining proper alignment, reducing strain and risk of injury.
2. Increases Flexibility: They can help with deepening stretches by bringing the ground closer, especially in standing poses like Ardha Chandrasana (Half Moon Pose) or Prasarita Padottanasana (Wide-Legged Forward Bend Pose).
3. Support & Stability: Blocks provide stability and support in challenging poses, especially for beginners or those working on balance.

How to Use Yoga Blocks for Stability

1. In Standing Poses: Use a block under your hand in poses like Trikonasana (Triangle Pose) to bring the floor closer and prevent over-reaching.
2. In Balance Poses: Place a block under the foot or hand for added support in poses like Virbhadrasana III (Warrior III) to maintain better control.
3. In Seated Poses: Sit on a block to elevate the hips above the knees in poses like Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Fold Pose) to relieve tension in the lower back.

Yoga Blocks for Different Skill Levels

1. Beginners: Yoga blocks are essential for beginners to build confidence in their practice by providing support in various poses.
2. Intermediate: For intermediate yogis, blocks help deepen stretches, improve alignment, and support more challenging asanas like Urdhva Dhanurasana (Wheel Pose).
3. Advanced: Advanced practitioners can use blocks to intensify their practice and move on to more complex asanas like Hanumanasana (Monkey Pose/Splits).

How to Choose the Right Yoga Block

1. Material: Foam blocks are ideal for beginners, while wooden and cork blocks suit those who want to go for more challenging poses and require more support.
2. Density: Choose a block with suitable firmness for your practice. Foam blocks are softer, while wooden or cork blocks are more rigid.
3. Size: Standard blocks are typical but choose based on your needs and support for postures.

Care and Maintenance of Yoga Blocks

1. Wooden Blocks: Wipe with a damp cloth and occasional wood polish to maintain shine of the wooden block.
2. Cork Blocks: Clean with a dry or lightly damp cloth to avoid water damage; store them away from direct sunlight.
3. Foam Blocks: Clean with a mild soap solution and avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the surface.

Conclusion

Yoga blocks are a valuable tool for practitioners of all levels. They provide support, enhance flexibility, and make poses more accessible. Choosing the right block for your practice, taking care of it, and using it properly can help deepen your practice, improve alignment, and prevent injuries, ultimately making yoga more enjoyable and effective.