How, When, and Why To Use Yoga Blocks

Yoga Block

Yoga blocks are made from durable, scratch-resistant, lightweight foam, and are shaped like rectangles with rounded edges.

The blocks measure 9″ wide by 6″ high by 4″ deep, and come in multiple colors, with prices ranging from $9.00 to $12.00.

Five Reasons You Need To Use Yoga Blocks

  1. Prevents struggling, and makes your practice more enjoyable.
  2. Safely supports and modifies poses.
  3. Brings the floor closer to you.
  4. Provides stability, and extra height.
  5. Braces your weight, and keeps you balanced.

Who Benefits From Using Blocks?

Triangle Pose with block.
  • Seniors
  • Beginners
  • Pregnant Women
  • Runners
  • Anyone with tight muscles, or injuries.

How To Use Yoga Blocks 

  • Under your hand in Trikonasa (Triangle Pose), and in Arda Chandrasana (Half Moon Pose).
  • Under your feet or low back in Setu Bandasana Sarvangasana (Bridge Pose).
  • Sitting on a block in Gomukhasana (Cow Face Pose), and Virasana (Hero Pose).
  • Under your head when there is excessive arching of your neck in supine poses, as in Ananda Balasana (Happy Baby Pose).

When To Use A Yoga Block

  • Can’t reach the mat in Uttanasana (Standing Forward Bend)?  You need a block under each hand.
  • Using your fingertips instead of the palms of your hands?  Use a block under your hand.
  • Is your front knee bending in Parivritta Trikonasana (Revolved Triangle)? Use a block under your hand.
  • Do your feet hurt in Virasana (Hero Pose)?  Sit on a block.

Where To Buy Yoga Blocks

There are many internet sites where you buy Yoga blocks. Three are listed below.  These companies also sell a full line of Yoga clothing and equipment.

Copyright 2013 Irene Pastore and Blue Moon Personal Training

The Lunge Stretch for Tight Hips

The Lunge Stretch

This is an excellent basic stretch to help open the hips. If you practice Yoga and have difficulty with hip openers, make the Lunge Stretch part of your regular stretching routine.  This stretch targets the iliopsoas muscle.

Lunge Stretch
Lunge Stretch

How To Do the Lunge Stretch

  1. Get onto all fours.
  2. Bring your right leg forward within your ability. You may have to align your right knee directly under your right hip, unless you have more flexibility, and can bring your leg further back.
  3. Place your hands on either side of your right foot.
  4. Hold the Lunge Stretch for 15 to 20 seconds.
  5. Repeat the stretch on the left side.

How To Modify the Lunch Stretch

  • If you have difficulty reaching the mat, place a Yoga block under each hand.
  • Place a folded towel under your knee for added cushioning.
Yoga Blocks
Yoga Blocks

 Copyright 2013 Irene Pastore and Tour De Core Personal Training