Props in yoga get a bad rap. Somewhere along the line, people started thinking that using a block, strap, or bolster means you’re “not good enough” at yoga. And, starting my practice with a Bikram Yoga background where props of any kind are not allowed, I know it took me some time to come around to using them in my own practice. 

So, let’s take a collective deep breath and let that all of that nonsense go. Ready? Inhale, exhale, and read on to find out why yoga props are about to become your new best friends when you step on your yoga mat.

1. Props Help You Get All of the Benefits of the Pose (Without the Drama)

 You know that moment when you’re trying to make the shape of Half Moon Pose (Ardha Chandrasana) and you can't reach the floor, your balance on your supporting leg starts to waiver and you feel like you're going to simply fall on your face?  Enter: the yoga block.

A block lets you maintain proper alignment while realizing the yoga pose, so you can get the benefits of strengthening your core, legs and ankles and improving your balance. No more straining, no more bobbling all over the place, no more awkward grunting. Just sweet, sweet relief. Trust me, your body will thank you.

2. They’re the Great Equalizer

Yoga props are like the great equalizers of the yoga world. Can’t reach your foot for Dancer Pose? Boom, grab a strap. Knees opening up too far in Bridge Pose? Put a block in between them and squeeze. Props help level the playing field, making even the more advanced yoga postures accessible for everyone, whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned yogi who just isn’t as bendy today (it happens!).

3. They Prevent Injuries (Because Who Has Time for That?)

Let’s be honest: nothing kills a yoga vibe like tweaking your back while trying to force yourself into a yoga pose. Props are there to support you—literally. They keep you from misalignment in your yoga poses and help you realize new things about your practice. And, they stop you from overextending, overreaching, and over-efforting (yoga is hard enough!). Remember, yoga is about feeling good in your body. Use the block. 

4. Props Teach You Patience (Which, Let’s Face It, We All Need)

We live in a world of instant gratification, but yoga teaches us to slow down. Props are an invitation to meet yourself where you are today. Can’t quite nail Full Splits (Hanumasana)? That’s okay—grab a block, place it under your hamstring for support and work on finding new depths each time you encounter the yoga pose. It’s all about progress, not perfection. Bonus: learning to embrace props on your mat might even make you more patient off the mat. Maybe.

5. Props Are the Comfort You Didn’t Know You Needed

Props aren’t just for “hard” poses. They’re also there to help you melt into the deliciously relaxing ones. Picture this: you’re lying in Savasana, a bolster under your knees, a blanket covering you, and an eye pillow gently blocking out the world. Heaven, right? Props make those restorative moments even sweeter. Treat yourself—you deserve it.

6. They’re a Confidence Booster

Let’s debunk the “props are for beginners” myth right now. Or, the even worse myth, "props are for yogis that aren't 'good enough' yet." (Yuck!)

Even the most advanced yogis use props because they know the secret: props make everything better.

Using blocks to master Firefly Pose or a strap to get deeper into King Pigeon Pose doesn’t mean you’re bad at yoga. It means you’re smart. Confidence comes from working with your body, not against it.

 7. Props Are Fun!

Last but not least, let’s not forget that props add a playful element to your practice. Who doesn’t love experimenting with a yoga wheel or seeing just how many ways you can use a block? Props keep your practice fresh and exciting. Plus, they make for great Instagram photos. Just saying.

Final Thoughts

Using props isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of wisdom. They’re tools designed to enhance your yoga practice, making it safer, more accessible, and—let’s be honest—way more enjoyable. So the next time you roll out your yoga mat, grab a block, a strap, or even a bolster, and embrace the magic of props. Your body (and your sanity) will thank you.

Now go forth and prop it like it’s hot!

Big Hugs, 

Tori G. ♡