Give Me My Props (And Make Them Pretty)

Using all your prop options can help you make the most of your practice. Experienced teachers prescribe them to help make your vinyasa more accessible, your restorative more restful and even add new sensations to your yin practice.

These days you can find perfectly functional sticky mats and foam blocks in your local superstore or discount center.  Yoga equipment outlets offer standard straps, bolsters, blankets and more. But if you’re investing in a committed home practice, why not use props that are unique, beautiful and eco-friendly? Using equipment that’s appealing to the senses makes your practice a pleasure. Here are a few of our favorite props that will serve you well in your practice—and look great doing it. 

Home and Travel Mat

Insist on a yoga mat that won’t slip and slide, but one that greets you with an inspiring design to bring pleasure to your practice. This one has a matching travel version.

Flex-n-Fly Blue Rise 2.0 Mat  

Eco-Friendly Mat

This natural jute mat is made from premium organic fibers that repel sweat and odor.

Ajna Organic Jute Yoga Mat

Wooden Blocks

Environmentally friendly bamboo blocks are strong and beautiful. 

Hugger Mugger Bamboo Yoga Block

Cork Blocks

Cork is a sturdy and eco-friendly option—and these take the natural aesthetic up a notch with embossed designs. 

Peace Yoga Cork Yoga Blocks with Designs

Buckwheat-Filled Bolster

This gray quilted option adjusts naturally to your shape. Plus, it has matching meditation pillows.

Brentwood Home Crystal Cove Buckwheat-Filled Yoga Bolster

Firm Bolster

Looking for a bolster that’s both supportive and good looking? Here’s a traditional shape enveloped in soft faux suede the color of crystals—emerald, amethyst, quartz and sapphire.

Ajna Eco-Suede Yoga Bolster 

Textured Blanket

Choose a textured cotton blanket in a monochromatic tone-on-tone pattern for a sophisticated take on the traditional yoga blanket.

Manduka Cotton Blanket

Mexican-Style Blanket

This version is similar to to the serape-style blankets offered at many studios, but comes in an array of solid colors.

Native Yoga Solid Color Woven Yoga Blanket

Artful Strap

A strap can be pretty basic—or just plain pretty. This artful design is inspired by Balinese textiles. 

Yoga Design Lab

Thick Cotton Strap

This traditional strap comes in a variety of lengths and an array of colors from bright to sophisticated.

Tumaz 

Yoga Chair

A kitchen chair will do the job if you need a sturdy prop, but foldable “Iyengar chairs” are specially modified for yoga practice. If you need support for a wider variety of poses, try a version with lumbar support attachments.

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