Which Style of Yoga Use Different Styles of Yoga Blocks
Which Styles of Yoga Use Different Styles of Blocks
Yoga blocks are used in many different styles of yoga, but they are particularly associated with Iyengar Yoga, where props are an important part of the practice. In Iyengar Yoga, blocks can be used to help students achieve and maintain alignment while working within their individual physical capabilities. Traditional rectangular wooden blocks are especially associated with this approach, although modern Iyengar practices can also use blocks made from other materials.
Blocks are also widely used in Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin, Restorative, and other styles of yoga. In Hatha and Vinyasa practices, blocks may help with reach, balance, and alignment in standing and seated poses. Yin and Restorative Yoga frequently use blocks to provide support during longer-held poses, while softer foam blocks may be preferred when the block will come into direct contact with the body. The style of block does not necessarily belong to one specific style of yoga; the choice between foam, cork, wood, rectangular, or curved blocks generally depends on the pose, the amount of support needed, and the practitioner's preference.