Know the difference between yoga stones and blocks

If the yoga teacher asks everyone to grab a block for today's course, were they ever confused what they actually mean? Talk about these brick -shaped props that are often used in postures likeTrikonasana(triangle pose) orArdha Chandrasana? (Crescent Pose) or do they mean those long, flat squares that students often sit on to support the hips and spine? The difference between a “brick” and a “block” can be confusing, but as similar as they may seem, they actually serve two very different purposes. Read on to understand the difference between bricks and blocks, who might need them, and how to use them.

What is the brick and what is the block?

Prepare to be confident the next time you're asked to grab a pad! The 'brick' is the smaller, brick-shaped support (hence the name). This is the type of support you might use to support your bottom hand in an extended side angle pose, although with the growing number of creative and hybrid yoga classes, there are now many creative ways to use stones that you may never have thought of. The 'block' is the flatter support, and although it looks simple, it's actually something you can use in countless ways.

When would you use a brick?

As already mentioned, bricks are ideal for supporting the lower hand in attitudes such as triangular and extended side angle. While some people have hip flexibility or arm length to reach the floor, others can use a block to work on it (or not because touching the soil - or its toes - is not really the goal of yoga). A yoga stone can also be used to train the deeper core muscles of the inner thighs if you practice posture asNavasana(Boatpose) or forearmplant positions. It is usually a good idea to have a stone next to you when practicing so that you can use it in any attitude during class.

When would you use a block?

The most common way, a. to use Block serves as support when sitting. If you feel uncomfortable sitting on the floorSukhasanaor any type of cross-legged position, sitting a little higher on a block or two can make a big difference. Sitting slightly higher allows the hip muscles to relax, allowing for a more comfortable position and more length in the lumbar spine. Especially when sitting for long periods of time in meditation or for pranayama, a block can help your mind move away from your body and toward the breath, a mantra, or your chosen meditative focus. If your hips, hamstrings, or lower back feel tight in floor-based yoga posesPaschimottanasana(Sitting forward folding) orUpavistha Konasana(Seated Wide-Legged Forward Bend), a block can prevent muscle tension and help your nervous system relax in the pose. The more the nervous system relaxes, the more confident your muscles will feel to relax and lengthen.

Are blocks and bricks only suitable for beginners?

Absolutely not! Although beginners yogis will definitely benefit from the use of blocks and stones to improve comfort and trust in yoga postures, you will usually see experienced students who are the first to use the props. We all have different bodies, and instead of being a hypermobil gymnast, some of the most advanced yoga students are those who actually listen to their bodies and use the props they need. The more you practice, the more you learn what is physically easy for your body and when it may need a little more time to open up. Perhaps you also find that just because magazines and books show people in certain postures that these postures are not suitable for them. In such situations, you can make the posture fit with a block or brickShe,rather than trying to force yourself into a pose. Additionally, stones and blocks can also be used to make many poses more difficult.

Should I choose a foam block or a cork block?

Which material you choose depends on your needs. Foam blocks and bricks are lighter, easy to transport and do not let anyone jump when they fall over in class. The yoga matt foam blocks and bricks are made of high -quality, non -toxic foam and are particularly durable and scratch -resistant. They are also one of the most popular available props and are available in a number of colors that meet their preferences. If you are a yoga studio owner, opt for the wholesale box with 30 stones, and box with 20 blocks in different shades or a uniform color.

Cork and brick yoga blocks come with the advantage of being naturally antibacterial, sustainable and incredibly robust. Use the cork blocks and stones for your home workouts or if you are passionate about purchasing more environmentally friendly props as absolutely no toxic chemicals are used in the production of the Yogamatters cork props. If you are a yoga studio, a set of cork supports is especially wonderful for restorative or yin classes where students can support their limbs and relax completely.

Which blocks and bricks are best to buy first?

If you are a beginner yogi that goes to class for the first time (or want to give a potential yogi with its first props), we recommend the yogamatters yoga frequo-kit. For those who want to make their practice more sustainable and environmentally conscious, choose the Kork yoga block, brick and mat, and the hemp eye pillow and belt. If you are looking for new props on the way back to class, try the (link removed), and the yoga battles (link removed) and (link removed) you can also easily in the (link removed).

Now you know what the brick and what the block is, how you prefer to use it? Do you have a creative handling of bricks? Do you often use your yoga block in class?

Discover all yoga mats that are perfect for your yoga trip and your personal yoga practice in our instructions for yoga mats.