Yoga can be practiced by anyone. However, many people find that they cannot perform the exercises correctly due to a lack of flexibility and stability. These are one of the reasons for using yoga blocks. Yoga blocks, also known as yoga bricks, are rectangular blocks that can vary in material and size.
There are basically three primary uses for yoga blocks. They can help with balance, flexibility and stability.
Additional balance through the use of yoga blocks
Many yoga exercises require good balance. As a beginner, you may struggle with keeping your balance while also having to build strength. This often results in a forced posture, which loses the effect of the exercise and can lead to injuries. In addition, you lose the peace and focus because you are purely concentrating on not falling. A strategically placed yoga block makes the exercise easier. For example, in a standing exercise you no longer have to go all the way to the ground or mat, but you can bridge the gap with a yoga block.
Yoga blocks as an aid to flexibility
Many yoga exercises require some flexibility. For the novice yogi, this can be an obstacle to performing exercises. Yoga blocks shorten the distance to the floor, so you can perform several yoga exercises correctly. In addition, they also provide a focal point to force yourself to touch the block and get the most out of the exercise.
Yoga blocks help with support
For exercises where you need to hold one pose for an extended period of time, yoga blocks can be a helpful aid. A yoga block can literally be a support to perform certain asanas. For example, you can use a yoga block in the bridge pose. In this exercise, you place the bridge between your lower back and your buttocks. In the half-moon pose, you place the block under the hand reaching for the ground. This allows you to hold the pose for a longer period of time.
Yoga blocks for the advanced yogi
In addition to the principles of making yoga easier and more accessible with blocks, blocks can also make yoga more challenging.
First, yoga blocks help make challenging poses more accessible. Exercises that require a lot of balance and stability can be made easier by using a yoga block. This allows you to first get used to the exercise and build muscle strength, after which you can perform the exercise without a yoga block.
Secondly, you can use yoga blocks to make the exercises more challenging. The blocks add resistance to common movements. For example, squeeze a yoga block between your legs during a plank or buttock bridge and you’ll immediately feel new muscles tighten.
The different yoga blocks
Yoga blocks are available in different materials, colors and shapes. A yoga block is made of wood, EVA foam or cork. The last two materials are used the most because they are softer than wood.
EVA foam yoga block
EVA foam yoga blocks are lightweight and available in different colors. These blocks are slightly springy making them soft and comfortable to the touch. They are often used in exercises with sensitive pressure points such as the spine. Furthermore, the EVA foam yoga blocks from Bamboa Yoga have rounded corners for optimal comfort.
Yoga blocks made of cork
Cork is a natural material making this the preferred choice for many users. These blocks are biodegradable and recyclable. A cork yoga block bounces slightly and is an anti-slip material. This allows you to train stable and safe. Furthermore, the cork yoga blocks from Bamboa Yoga have rounded corners so they are easy to grasp.
With yoga blocks you can make your exercises accessible to your own level. Use a yoga block for extra balance, flexibility or support. In addition, you can increase or decrease the difficulty of the exercises with the help of a yoga block. At Bamboa Yoga you will find various yoga accessories, such as yoga blocks, foam rollers and straps.
