Essential Equipment for Practicing Yoga at Home
What equipment do I need for Zoom yoga or Online yoga?
If you're looking to start practicing yoga from the comfort of your home, having some basic equipment will really support your yoga practice. Having the right yoga gear not only enhances your poses but also elevates your overall experience - allowing you to find poses that feel really good for your body. Whether you're just starting your yoga journey or looking to take it to the next level, having the essential equipment can make a world of difference.
If you’re attending an in-person class you may not need to buy any equipment before your first class (many studios will rent you mats or equipment, and for your first couple of in-person classes you can borrow my equipment before you decide to purchase).
In this article, I’m breaking down the essential yoga equipment for beginners and equipment to take your practice to the next level for those more experienced. For each, I’ve also shared substitutes you can use if you are waiting to invest, these are hopefully things that should be commonly available in your household so you can start practicing with equipment without delay!
Yoga Equipment Basics: For Beginners
Yoga Mat: Your Sacred Space
Let's start with the holy grail of yoga equipment – the yoga mat. A reliable mat provides the foundation for your practice, offering stability and comfort during those challenging physical postures.
If you're just beginning, a clean, non-slippery carpet or a large towel can serve as a temporary substitute until you're ready to invest in a good quality yoga mat. Remember, your comfort is key!
Yoga Bricks: Your Yoga Buddies
For those tricky poses that require a little extra support, yoga bricks are your best friends. They help with posture alignment and flexibility, making those challenging poses a tad more accessible. In your early yoga stages then two bricks can be really helpful. As you progress you may find that you only use one, or move to the thinner ‘blocks’ - see below.
If you're still testing the waters, sturdy thick books or small boxes (like boardgames!) can easily double up as yoga bricks.
Yoga Strap: Your Flexibility Friend
If you’re working on your flexibility, a yoga strap can be your best friends. They can help to support stretches so you can find a comfortable depth that feels well supported, as well as act like extensions of your arms in tricky balance poses.
A dressing gown cord, belt or an old scarf can serve as a temporary strap until you’re ready to invest in your own yoga strap.
Here’s me in action with the trusty yoga strap! This is “Extended Hand To Big Toe” pose - if you struggle to touch your toes with your hand you can use the strap to find this pose :)
Plus, if you're planning to join one of my in-person classes, remember you can always borrow mats, bricks and straps to get a feel for them before making a purchase. Click here to join a class - your first class is free!
Taking Practice to the Next Level: Props To Support You To Deepen Your Yoga Practice
Now, let's explore how to step up your practice with some additional props to help you develop your yoga practice further…
Bolster: Embrace Comfort and Relaxation
When it comes to restorative poses, a bolster is a game-changer. It supports your body and enhances relaxation, allowing you to sink deeper into those calming poses.
Can't get your hands on a bolster just yet? No worries! Firm pillows or a stack of blankets can serve as an excellent substitute, providing similar support and comfort.
Blankets: Soft Support for Every Pose
Whether you need extra cushioning or support, blankets are versatile props that can elevate your practice. They not only offer comfort - offering padding if you have tricky knees for example - but also assist in maintaining proper alignment during various poses.
Don't have a yoga blanket? Thick towels or even your cozy bedspreads can be a great alternative to get you started.
Blocks: The Versatile Supporters
Blocks, especially the thinner foam ones, are fantastic tools for stabilising and balancing during challenging poses. As you find your flexibility and strength increases, the height can be just right to bring the floor up a bit to make a tricky pose accessible!
If you don't have yoga blocks on hand, don't fret! A thick book or cushion can serve as a perfect substitute, providing you with the support you need to master those intricate poses.
Eye Pillows: Unwind and Relax
For that added touch of relaxation during your meditation or Savasana, eye pillows are a must-have. They promote a deeper sense of calmness and help you to unwind after a challenging practice.
No eye pillows? Try an eye mask (from a plane ride or other!) or pop a scarf over your eyes so you start to get the benefits of the darkening to help you draw deeper inside yourself.
Conclusion: Find Your Yoga Potential with the Right Gear
Remember, the key to a fulfilling yoga journey lies in finding what works best for you. As you develop your yoga practice, the right equipment can support your growth. Start with the basics and gradually add more props as you evolve.
If you're interested in purchasing any of the equipment mentioned in this article, don't hesitate to reach out to me on hannah@workerbeeyoga.co.uk - I can supply locally or provide online recommendations if you are further away.
Mark your calendars: Online Yoga Props Special Class - 1st Nov 7.30pm!
We’re hosting a one-off "Yoga Props Special," on November 1st at 7.30 pm. Join us for an enlightening session led by the phenomenal Chantelle Magrath, our guest teacher who is looking forward to teaching you exactly how to use these props effectively to enhance your yoga practice. You won't want to miss it!
If you’ve never tried an online class with me, you can try this class for FREE by using the code FIRSTCLASS23 at checkout
