We have already written about the importance and necessity of props, but it is worth repeating. Props are not useless things in yoga. They are useful both for a beginner, in order to master an asana of any complexity, and for a pro, in order to bring fresh ideas to daily practice. Support blocks, belts, bolsters and even the mats themselves - all these are props, which will be discussed below.

Mats

The main function of a yoga mat is to ensure the safety of the practitioner: to prevent slipping. During practice, the hands and feet of a yogi sweat, a quality mat provides a strong grip, your hands and feet do not slip, and the Young Downward Dog does not slip.

The mat protects your back from bruises and discomfort, making the surface for practice softer. The mat also limits your personal space in the yoga room. This is your personal island for practice, where outsiders are not allowed.

Blankets

Blankets and throws are not only great for a warm and cozy Shavasana, but they also help protect your back from unnecessary bending. Fold the blanket as you like and place it under your lower back or neck for a comfortable asana.

Belts

Belts help develop flexibility and comfortably perform those asanas when you can't reach your toes with your hand. By putting a belt on your foot, you can keep your back straight and strive for perfection. Long belts - 3 m and more are universal, they will also suit tall yogis. 

Blocks

Blocks and bricks regulate the height and help to build the correct body position in a particular asana. They are good because you can use them on any side (wide or narrow), compensating for the lack of the necessary centimeters. The blocks can be under the hips or arms. You can sit on the blocks. When performing Sukhasana (the simplest sitting asana in yoga) with the help of a block, your spine will maintain a natural body position, if its constitution requires it. 

Bolsters

Bolsters differ from blocks in that they are soft and flexible. This means that you cannot lean on them, but you can rely on them. You can lie down on a bolster, placing it under your head and along your body between your shoulder blades, with your arms spread out along the mat - this will open up your chest and you will feel a relaxing effect.

Other objects

Buying all the yoga gear can be difficult. But for yoga at home, you can use any available means: regular blankets instead of special blankets or bolsters, a thick book instead of a block, a chair or a wall as a support for performing some asanas. The main thing is to be safe and not slip!

5 New Year's Gifts for a Yogi

What to give a yogi for New Year? To save you from racking your brains, we have compiled a selection of five unusual New Year gifts. You will have something to provide Santa Claus with, and something to put under the tree yourself.

1. Yoga Mat "Shiva Trident Gray" EGOyoga
Want to make someone the king of the mat? The Shiva Trident mat will be a royal gift! Made of rubber, it does not slip, even if your palms are wet. The mat has a drawing of the Trident of Shiva - a sign of power in the three worlds (physical, astral and causal). It means awakening, action and wisdom. The mat is longer and wider than regular mats (185x68), so during practice there will be room to turn around and become wiser.

2. Sadhu-board "Yin-Yang"
A great gift even for those who are not into yoga. Anyone will want to challenge themselves and stand on nails. The Sadhu-board "Yin-Yang" in a new design will please both esotericists and ordinary stern guys. Standing on nails strengthens health and immunity, relieves stress and fatigue, energizes, and clears the mind. Want to experience new sensations? Give a sadhu board to yourself or a friend!

3. Yoga jumpsuit "Shanty Red"
Girls in red are always especially popular. A girl in a tight red jumpsuit from the Russian brand UrbanYoga will become the star of any yoga studio, because it fits perfectly, emphasizes the figure, gives freedom on the mat, in the hammock, on the pole - anywhere! The jumpsuit is made of elastic cotton. Comfortable, stylish and wearable. If you add a red Santa hat to it, it can pass for a New Year's outfit.

4. Meditation pillow "Mandala"
A meditation pillow and designer home accessory will look cozy under any Christmas tree. It is more comfortable to meditate on such a pillow than on the floor, because it is much easier to straighten the spine if the pelvis is slightly raised. Inside the pillow is buckwheat husk. Such pillows retain their shape well and please eco-activists.