Yogic Knowledge

How to use Yoga blocks? – A comprehensive guide to unlock the secret of Yoga blocks

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Yoga blocks are an essential tool for any yogi, but many people don’t understand the power that they possess. They can help you improve your practice and make the most of each pose, but only if you know how to use Yoga blocks properly. So, if you’re ready to take your Yoga practice to the next level, it’s time to learn how to use a Yoga block. The suspense is real; read on to find out how to make the most of your Yoga block!

What is a Yoga block?

A Yoga block is a simple, inexpensive tool that can be used to support and deepen Yoga postures. It is made of foam, wood, or plastic and is typically the size of a brick or a block. Yoga blocks are used to help you position your body in the correct alignment, and they can provide support and stability in postures that are difficult or uncomfortable. For example, a Yoga block can be placed under the hips in a seated forward bend to help maintain alignment and stability. Yoga blocks can also be used to increase the height of certain poses, such as the downward facing dog, to make them more accessible. Overall, Yoga blocks are a versatile and useful tool that can help practitioners of all levels to deepen their practice.

Types of Yoga blocks

Yoga blocks come in different sizes and materials. The main materials used for Yoga blocks are cork, foam, wood, cotton and bamboo blocks. If you’re on the hunt for that perfect Yoga block, it’s important to know the difference between the various kinds.

Foam blocks

Foam blocks may not be as sturdy as the other kinds, but they make up for it with their softer and lighter composition. Perfect for those who are starting out and need some extra support in their postures, because foam blocks are so lightweight and comfy. They’re also great for restorative Yoga, since they’re not as hard. An added bonus? They’re easy to take to class.

Cork blocks 

Cork blocks are a great option for beginners who want a bit more stability and grip than foam blocks provide. They’re heavier, so they help build a stronger foundation in poses. Plus, cork blocks are eco-friendly and usually last longer than foam. The downside? They can be kind of uncomfortable during restorative poses.

Wooden blocks 

Traditional wooden blocks used to be the go-to for yogis, but today they are not as popular. They are solid and can last a long time, but they are more expensive and they can get slippery when you begin to perspire. Not ideal for novices as they are much tougher than foam blocks and not so forgiving for restorative poses.

Cotton blocks

The cotton Yoga blocks are perfect for providing extra support and stability for your Yoga routine. They are lightweight and easy to handle, making them the perfect companion for your practice. The cotton material is soft and comfortable, providing a comfortable feel for your hands and feet. The blocks also provide a steady foundation for your poses, allowing you to stay in perfect alignment. With the cotton Yoga blocks, you can expect to have a more successful and enjoyable practice.

Bamboo blocks

Bamboo Yoga blocks are an excellent way to deepen your Yoga practice. They provide stability and support, allowing you to hold poses for longer, and can help you learn new poses more quickly. Bamboo blocks are also thermally insulated and moisture-resistant, making them durable and ideal for use in both hot and cold Yoga classes. They come in various sizes and shapes, so you can find the perfect block for your practice.


What is a Yoga block used for?

Yoga blocks are a fantastic prop to have in your Yoga practice. They can not only help you extend your arms, but also support your back, hips, and head. You can use Yoga blocks to stabilise poses and make them more accessible, as well as deepen stretches and add balance to challenging poses. They’re great for getting the most out of crescent moon pose, bridge pose, and many more. Furthermore, Yoga blocks can support range of motion, allowing your body to get closer to the floor.

Why should you use a Yoga block?

Yoga blocks can be incredibly helpful in deepening your Yoga practice. The blocks provide stability and support which helps to improve your form, balance and alignment. They can also be used to help reach harder poses that may not be attainable without the block, and also to help with modifications of poses. Additionally, they can help to increase your range of motion, making your practice even more effective. In short, Yoga blocks are a great tool to have in your Yoga practice.
Who should use Yoga blocks?


Even if you thought Yoga blocks were just for beginners, you might be surprised to learn that they can – and should – be used by all levels of practitioners. Everyone’s body is different and so it makes sense that props should be too. So, try them out in different ways to find out what feels good for you! It’s common for Yoga teachers to ask for or suggest the use of one or two blocks for their classes. These blocks are especially helpful for starting yogis and those with injuries or physical limitations, but more experienced people can also use them to learn challenging poses safely.


How to find the right block height?

Yoga blocks are a great way to help deepen your Yoga practice. But with so many options out there, it can be difficult to know which one is best for you. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right Yoga block

The 9x6x2 thinner than average Yoga block size is perfect for people who want a more challenging practice. This size Yoga block is also great for people who want to use a Yoga block to assist with poses that require more flexibility.

The 9x6x3 is the average Yoga block size. It is a great size for all levels of Yoga, whether you are just starting out or have been practising for a while. It is also a great size for restorative Yoga, as it allows for a comfortable and secure posture. If you have small hands, you may find it difficult to manoeuvre the bigger blocks. To make things a little easier, start with thinner blocks. The traditional size of 9″ x 6″ x 3″ is a great option for everyone, and you can switch it up as your flexibility increases and you no longer need as much support.

The 9x6x4 traditional Yoga blocks provide a wider, more stable platform for more advanced poses. They are made from sturdy foam and covered with a non-slip surface, so you can feel secure in your practice. The blocks come in a variety of colours to match your style. Choose from vibrant blues, greens, and purples, or go for a classic look with neutral hues. With these wider Yoga blocks, you can deepen your practice and make your poses more powerful.


Benefits of using Yoga blocks

Here are some compelling motivations to incorporate Yoga blocks in your practice: 

Emotional benefits


Increases your confidence 

As you continue your Yoga journey, it can be intimidating to attempt more challenging postures. Blocks can provide the assurance you need to take your practice to the next level with ease and confidence.

Eliminates your fear

Yoga blocks can be used to help eliminate fear from our lives. By focusing on the blocks, we can take our minds off of our worries and anxieties, allowing us to relax and be present in the moment. With the help of Yoga blocks, we can become more aware of our breath and be more mindful of our thoughts. Through regular practice, we can begin to replace our fears with a sense of peace and wellbeing.

Lets you relax 

Yoga blocks allow you to experience a much deeper stretch. They provide support that can help you sink further into each pose. Restorative practices often use blocks to help your body to relax and let go, allowing for a deeper practice.

Reduces your stress

Yoga is a great way to manage stress and release built-up tension. Some poses may be more challenging than others, but you should still be able to find a comfortable position. If you’re having trouble settling into a posture, consider using blocks for extra support and to make the pose more accessible.

Physical benefits


Reduces injury risk

In Yoga, blocks are your best friend when it comes to avoiding injuries. They provide extra support, making it easier to find your balance and reduce the strain on your joints and muscles. Using blocks also keeps you from forcing your body into postures that your body isn’t ready for, helping to prevent any unexpected injuries.

Makes the ground more accessible 

If you’re having trouble getting to the floor in certain poses, using a block can help. With a block, you can create extra length and make the ground more accessible without straining your body or compromising your form. This way, you can get the full benefit of the pose.

Provides you right alignment 

Maintaining proper alignment in your Yoga poses is essential for both injury prevention and making sure you’re getting the most out of the pose. That’s where Yoga blocks come in – they can help you to achieve the right alignment and get more out of your Yoga practice. Yoga blocks can support your body and help you stay in correct alignment while taking your pose to the next level.

Provides you extra support 

Yoga blocks can be a real lifesaver during restorative and Yin poses, when you just don’t have the energy to hold the pose. They help you to support your body, letting you relax into the pose without putting in too much effort.

Helps you get into complex pose

Yoga blocks can help you move deeper into postures and give you a greater range of motion. This is especially advantageous for those who are stiff in certain parts of their body or striving for more complicated poses.

Provides flexibility 

Blocks help you to touch the floor in forward bends or opening your chest in backbends. Blocks provide support for your hands or feet, allowing you to lengthen your spine and deepen into poses. They’re great for yogis of all levels to increase stability and flexibility. Make 

Increases your strength 

Incorporating Yoga blocks into your practice can help you build strength and gain more power. They can be used as a support for poses like warrior III or handstand, allowing you to use your own body weight to give your upper body and core a real workout. This is an excellent way to increase your strength and power!

Provides you stability 

Yoga blocks are a great way to master your balance poses! If you’re struggling to stay stable in a tricky pose, just place a block under your hands or feet to help you out. This will give you a stable base to help you find your centre of gravity and stay in the pose. It’s a great way to challenge yourself without having to worry about falling over!

Makes Yoga easier for you

Yoga blocks are a great way to open up Yoga to everyone, regardless of skill or physical condition. They can make poses more comfortable and allow you to get the most out of your practice, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi. With the support of Yoga blocks, you can now enjoy the many benefits of Yoga with ease.


How to use Yoga blocks for various purposes?

The use of Yoga blocks is a popular and beneficial practice in the world of Yoga. Blocks can be used for a variety of purposes, including to help with balance, to support the head or hips, or to provide additional length or support for the body. Let’s explore the different ways in which Yoga blocks can be used by incorporating it in some of the Yoga poses. 

How to use Yoga blocks for arm balancing?

To do arm balancing here are the poses you can try:

Chin stand pose

Chin stand pose is a challenging Yoga pose that requires a lot of strength and balance. It is often used as a preparatory pose for arm balancing poses, as it helps to build the necessary strength and stability in the arms and core. When practising chin stand pose, you are essentially balancing on your forearms with your legs extended overhead. This pose can be quite challenging, but with practice, it can help you to improve your arm balancing skills and overall strength and stability.

Steps
  1. Begin in downward facing dog pose.
  2. Place two blocks at their highest height shoulder-width apart.
  3. Place your hands on the blocks and walk your feet in towards your hands.
  4. Lift one leg up and place it on the block.
  5. Lift your other leg up and place it on the other block.
  6. Begin to bend your elbows and lower your head towards the ground, keeping your feet on the blocks.
  7. Once your head is close to the ground, engage your core and lift your feet off the blocks, coming into chin stand pose.
  8. Hold the pose for a few breaths before coming back down to the ground.

Peacock pose

Peacock pose is a great way to improve arm balancing. It strengthens your arms and shoulders, while also increasing your core stability. It’s a challenging pose, but with practice, you’ll be able to hold it for longer periods of time.

Steps
  1. To do Peacock Pose using blocks, start by placing two blocks shoulder-width apart on your mat. 
  2. Next, come into a kneeling position with your knees hip-width apart and place your hands on the blocks. 
  3. Then, slowly lift your knees off the ground and walk your feet towards your hands until your hips are directly over your shoulders. 
  4. Finally, engage your core and slowly straighten your arms to come into the full expression of the pose. 
  5. Remember to breathe deeply and listen to your body as you move through this challenging pose.

Eight angle pose

Eight Angle Pose is a challenging arm balancing pose that offers a multitude of benefits. This pose strengthens the arms, wrists, and core, while also improving balance and concentration. By engaging the core and using the arms to lift the body, practitioners can achieve a greater sense of control and stability in their practice. Additionally, Eight Angle Pose can help to improve flexibility in the hips and hamstrings, making it a great pose for overall health and wellness.

Steps
  1. To do an eight angle pose using blocks, start by sitting on the floor with your legs straight out in front of you. 
  2. Place the blocks in front of you, one on each side. Bend your knees and place your feet flat on the floor. 
  3. Bring your hands behind you and place them on the blocks, fingers pointing forward. 
  4. Lift your hips up and forward, so your weight is on your hands and feet. 
  5. At the same time, shift your weight onto your right foot and lift your left foot off the ground. 
  6. Bend your left knee and bring it toward your chest, then hook your left foot behind your right elbow. 
  7. Keep your hands on the blocks for support. 
  8. Slowly lower your hips back down toward the floor, keeping your left foot hooked behind your elbow. 
  9. Hold for a few breaths, then release and repeat on the other side.

How to use Yoga blocks for drilling?

For drilling here are the poses you can try:

Dolphin push-ups

Dolphin push ups are a great exercise for drilling. They help to build upper body strength and improve core stability. By performing dolphin push ups regularly, you can increase your endurance and control over your body. It’s a challenging exercise, but it’s worth it for the results you’ll see.

Steps
  1. Begin in a downward facing dog pose with your hands on the blocks.
  2. Lift your hips up and back, creating an inverted V-shape with your body.
  3. Lower your forearms to the ground, keeping your elbows directly under your shoulders.
  4. Push through your hands and forearms to lift your hips up and back into the inverted V-shape.
  5. Repeat the pushup motion, lowering your forearms to the ground and then pushing back up.
  6. Continue for several repetitions, making sure to keep your core engaged and your hips lifted.
  7. Release the pose by lowering your knees to the ground and resting in child’s pose.

Donkey kicks

Donkey kicks are a great way to improve your drilling technique. By engaging your core and glutes, you’ll be able to generate more power and stability in your movements. Additionally, donkey kicks can help improve your balance and coordination, making you a better all-around athlete. 

Steps
  1. Start by placing two blocks on the ground, shoulder-width apart.
  2. Place your hands on the blocks and come into a tabletop position with your knees directly under your hips and your wrists directly under your shoulders.
  3. Engage your core and lift one leg up and back, keeping it bent at a 90-degree angle.
  4. Hold for a few seconds before lowering back down to the starting position.
  5. Repeat on the other side.
  6. Continue alternating sides for the desired number of repetitions.  

Modified airplane

Modified airplane pose is a great way to improve your drilling skills. By modifying the traditional airplane pose, you can engage more core muscles and increase stability, which can lead to better balance and control during drilling. This modification involves bending the knees slightly and bringing the arms closer to the body, which helps to activate the core muscles and improve overall posture. 

Steps
  1. Begin in a tabletop position with your hands and knees on the mat.
  2. Place two Yoga blocks on the mat, one at the top of the mat and one at the bottom.
  3. Step your right foot forward between the blocks and place it on the mat.
  4. Lower your left knee to the mat and slide your left foot back behind you.
  5. Place your left hand on the left Yoga block and reach your right arm up towards the ceiling.
  6. Take a deep inhale and exhale as you twist your torso to the right, bringing your right hand down to the right Yoga block.
  7. Hold the pose for a few breaths, then release and switch sides. 

How to use Yoga blocks for hip opening?

For hip opening here are the poses you can try:

Runner’s Lunge

Runner’s lunge pose is a great way to open up your hips and stretch your legs. This pose can be especially beneficial for those who spend a lot of time sitting, as it helps to release tension in the hips and lower back.

Steps
  1. Begin in a high plank position with your hands shoulder-width apart on the blocks.
  2. Step your right foot forward between your hands, keeping your right knee directly over your ankle.
  3. Lower your left knee onto the mat, keeping your left foot untucked.
  4. Inhale and lift your chest, pressing your hips forward and sinking deeper into the stretch.
  5. Exhale and release your head and neck, gazing forward.
  6. Hold for 5-10 breaths before releasing and repeating on the other side.

Twisted Side Lunge 

Twisted side lunge pose is beneficial for hip opening because it targets the hip flexors, which are responsible for the majority of hip movement. The pose also stretches the quadriceps, hamstrings, and gluteal muscles.

Steps
  1. Begin in a standing position with your feet hip-width apart and your arms at your sides.
  2. Step your left foot back and to the right, coming into a lunge position with your right knee bent at a 90-degree angle and your left leg straight behind you.
  3. Place a block on the ground to the inside of your right foot and reach your left arm up towards the ceiling.
  4. Twist your torso to the right and bring your left arm down towards the block, resting your hand on top of it.
  5. Hold the pose for several breaths, then release and repeat on the other side.

Butterfly pose 

Butterfly pose is a hip opener that helps to stretch the hips and groyne. It is a great pose for those who sit for long periods of time or who have tight hips. When performed correctly, butterfly pose can help to improve hip mobility and reduce pain and tension in the hips.

Steps
  1. Place two blocks on the ground shoulder-width apart.
  2. Lie down on your back and place your hands on the blocks, with your fingers facing towards your feet.
  3. Bring your knees into your chest and lift your hips up off the ground.
  4. Spread your knees wide and bring your feet together, so that your legs resemble a butterfly’s wings.
  5. Hold the pose for up to 30 seconds, then slowly lower your hips back down to the ground.

How to use Yoga blocks for back pain?

To get rid of back pain here are the poses you can try:

Seated Forward Bend

Ready to ease those tense muscles? Give the Seated Forward Bend a try! This Yoga pose is a great way to relieve tightness in your hamstrings, lower back, shoulders, and arms. Using a block can help you create the perfect curve in your spine, so you can avoid hunching your back, which is a common mistake. 

Steps
  1. Sit on the block with your legs pointing towards one edge of the mat.
  2. You can keep them straight, or give them a slight bend – whatever is most comfortable.
  3. But don’t forget to flex your feet upwards to protect your knees!
  4. Take a deep breath. As you breathe in, lift your arms up above your head.
  5. When you exhale, slowly start to bend forward, and grab onto your big toes or your wrists, hooking your hands onto the flat of your foot.
  6. Look towards your shins, and keep your back as straight as possible.
  7. Hold this pose for 5-10 breaths.

Supported Bridge Pose

The Supported Bridge Pose is a great way to strengthen your lower back, hips, hamstrings, and core. It can also help alleviate lower back pain by keeping your pelvis in a balanced position.

Steps
  1. To start, lay on your back with a block nearby. Bend your knees and place your feet on the ground, hip-width apart. This will help you to feel more grounded.
  2. Place your arms alongside your body, palms facing down
  3. Inhale and press into your arms and feet, lifting your hips towards the ceiling.
  4. Grab your block and slide it underneath your sacrum.
  5. Lower your hips back down to rest on the block.
  6. Stretch your legs out in front of you with your feet wide apart. Let your toes turn out and your heels inwards.
  7. Turn your palms up and close your eyes. Hold the pose for 8 breaths.


How to use Yoga blocks for stretching?

For stretching here are some of the poses you can try:

Steps

Triangle pose


If you are having difficulty getting your hands to the ground in Triangle Pose, don’t worry! You can use a block instead. The reason you can’t reach the floor is because your hamstrings are tight. Triangle Pose is an excellent posture for improving your alignment, yet it can be difficult if you are feeling uncomfortable.

Steps 
  1. Begin your practice in Mountain Pose, with your feet spread wide.
  2. Then turn your left toes to the left at 90 degrees, with your right toes pointing ahead.
  3. Put a Yoga block close to the heel of your left foot.
  4. Reach both arms up above and gracefully lower your left arm to rest on the block.
  5. With your right arm, reach up and extend your fingertips towards the sky. Gaze up towards your fingertips.
  6. Draw your navel in and make sure your body is aligned, not hunched or curved.
  7. Adjust the block as needed, so you’re in the correct posture and gain a good stretch.

Standing Forward Fold

Standing forward fold is a great way to stretch your hamstrings, calves and hips, as well as help improve your posture. It also helps reduce stress, soothe anxiety and improve digestion. Additionally, it helps to loosen your spine and relieve lower back pain. All in all, a forward fold can help you enjoy a more relaxed, healthy lifestyle.

Steps
  1. To get around this, start in Mountain Pose with two blocks in front of your feet.
  2. Put your hands on your hips and, while keeping your back straight.
  3. Engage your core and use it to fold your hips towards the ground.
  4. As soon as you start to feel your spine curl and stretch.
  5. Let your hands rest on the Yoga blocks.
  6. You can adjust the height and distance of the blocks to suit your needs.
  7. Keeping them farther away will give you more control for a gentler stretch, while bringing them closer to your feet will give you a deeper stretch in your hamstrings and hips.

Downward Dog


Downward Dog is a popular Yoga pose that requires upper body strength and stretches out your arms, shoulders, abdomen, legs, and hips. This pose can help improve your spine’s flexibility and reduce your back pain.


Steps
  1. To get into the pose, start on all fours or in a tabletop position.
  2. Place a block under each of your hands, either on the thin side or the wide side.
  3. Make sure that your palms are pressed firmly into the blocks to avoid slipping. 
  4. As you exhale, tuck your toes in and lift your hips up into the air.
  5. This will create an inverted V-shape with your body.
  6. Keep your back straight, although you can have a slight bend in the knees.
  7. Alternatively, you can keep your legs straight and place your feet flat on the floor. Sustain this position for 5 to 10 breaths.

How to use Yoga blocks to open the chest?

For open chest here are some of the poses you can try:

Upward Facing Dog 


The Upward Facing Dog is an awesome Yoga pose that opens your chest and makes you feel amazing! This stretch helps to loosen up your chest, lungs, shoulders, and abs–plus, it strengthens your spine, arms, wrists, and thighs. Give it a shot–you won’t regret it! 

Steps
  1. To begin, start from Downward Dog with both your palms on the blocks.
  2. Step forward into a High Plank Pose and then lower your hips down to the mat.
  3. Lift your chest and gaze forward.
  4. If possible, lift your toes off the mat and press your hands firmly onto the blocks.
  5. Open your chest and collar bones, and draw your shoulders away from your ears. 
  6. Extend your tailbone down toward your heels to reduce pressure in the lower back.
  7. Roll your inner thighs upward to create space in the lower back and lift your legs off the mat.

Camel pose


Camel stance can be a great Yoga pose for people who want to open up their chest, but it’s important to be mindful of any back pain or tightness in the shoulders before attempting it. 

Steps
  1. To start, come into Hero’s Pose.
  2. Lift your seat off your heels and straighten your legs so that your knees are about hip-distance apart and your toes are not tucked.
  3. Next, place one block on each side of your heels, starting with the tallest height.
  4. Lift up tall through your chest and put your hands onto your hips.
  5. Then, bring one hand at a time onto each block with your fingertips facing inward.
  6. You can come into a mild backbend, letting your gaze fall backwards.
  7. To come out of the pose, bring one hand at a time back onto your hips and lift up to the neutral spine.

Fish Pose


It’s time to unwind and open up your upper back and chest with Fish Pose! This pose is perfect for relieving tension in the cervical spine and upper back muscles. 

Steps
  1. Start by positioning one or two blocks longwise in the middle of your mat.
  2. Place the blocks between your shoulder blades and head.
  3. Sit in front of the blocks, bend your knees, and have your feet flat on the ground.
  4. Lean back and gently lower yourself onto the blocks.
  5. Move them around until they’re exactly beneath your shoulder blades.
  6. Tilt your head back and rest the crown of your head on the ground or the second Yoga block.
  7. Stretch your arms down your sides, palms face up, and maintain the pose for 8 breaths. Enjoy!

How to use Yoga blocks to enhance stability:

To enhance stability here are some of the poses you can try: 

Sun Salutation 


Feel the stability and support of your adductors by using a block between your thighs as you move through Sun Salutations. This will help you to experience the transitions more effectively.

Steps
  1. Place the block in its narrowest setting between your thighs, making sure there’s no excess length in front of your thighs.
  2. Take a deep breath in and reach your arms overhead, exhaling as you hinge into a Standing Forward Bend.
  3. Let the block provide a gentle, supportive hug as your arms reach above you and your body bends forward.
  4. On the inhale, press down through your feet to hinge up to standing with arms over the head and on the exhale, return to your starting Mountain Pose.
  5. Repeat this two to three more times, feeling the effects of the block and noticing any transitions that you tend to lose focus on.
  6. Finally, take one more Sun Salutation without the block to see if you can maintain your awareness of the adductor muscles without the prop. Happy flow-ing!

How to use Yoga blocks to reduce knee discomfort?

To reduce knee pain here are some of the poses you can try:

Hero’s Pose 


The hero pose can be a great way to improve flexibility in the knees, ankles, and thighs. It can also help with counteracting slouching posture, as well as improving breathing. Cycling and other quad-intensive activities can benefit from this pose as well. Doing this pose regularly can help strengthen the quads and ankles, as well as improving overall posture.

Steps
  1. Kneeling with your knees and feet hip-distance apart.
  2. Place the block between your shins on the medium-height level.
  3. Begin to slowly shift your body back and sit on top of the block.
  4. Make sure to lengthen the spine and gently engage the core, while keeping the back of the neck long.
  5. Place your palms on top of your thighs.
  6. By lifting the hips above the level of your knees, you can reduce stress and discomfort on the knees.
  7. This will allow you to sit in this position for a longer period of time and take full advantage of the stretch for your feet, ankles, and thighs.

How to use Yoga blocks to release tight muscles?

To release tight muscles here are some of the poses you can try:

Revolved Triangle

Revolved Triangle is a great exercise for toning the thigh, calf, and hamstring muscles. It also helps to open up your chest, invigorate your abdominal organs, and strengthen your hip muscles. If you’re looking to improve your balance, this is a great pose to add to your routine.

Steps
  1. Start with a low lunge position with your right leg ahead.
  2. Nudge your left foot a few inches up so you can press the left heel into the ground with the foot at a 45-degree angle.
  3. Put a block inside your right foot.
  4. Then, stretch out your right leg so you are in a pyramid pose, keeping the back heel grounded.
  5. Lay your left fingertips on the block in your right foot and lift your chest a bit to achieve a flat back.
  6. Breathe in and raise your right arm high so your upper body is in a twist.
  7. Stretch up through your right fingertips. Remain for 5 breaths.

Malasana

It can be a tough one for most people. If you’re feeling tightness in your hips, lower back, calves, and chest, it can feel like an impossible position to get into. But don’t give up yet! Placing a block beneath the sitting bones will give you extra support and make it easier to open up the hips and lower back. Give it a try! 

Steps
  1. Start in a standing position with a block beneath you, either on the medium or high setting.
  2. Spread your toes wider than hip-width apart, with your heels in and toes out.
  3. Place your hands together at your heart centre.
  4. Take a deep breath and slowly lower your hips towards the block, maintaining a lifted chest.
  5. Once your hips are almost touching the block, shift the block underneath your sitting bones.
  6. Now, sit on it, being sure to keep your elbows actively pressing your thighs open with your upper arms and your shoulder blades squeezing together.
  7. Hold this posture for 8 breaths.

Chair pose

It can be tough on your knees, especially if you have existing pain or forget to keep the weight in your heels. To practise it more safely, try putting a block beneath your heels to reduce the strain. It’ll create the same great benefits as the pose normally would but with less discomfort.

Steps
  1. Start off by grabbing a block and putting it on the floor, then stand in front of it with your feet together.
  2. Reach down, pick up your heels and slide the block beneath them.
  3. Once your heels are securely perched on the block, reach your arms up and make sure your hands are framing your ears.
  4. From here, inhale deeply and sit your hips back into a high squat.
  5. Keep your pelvis slightly tucked in and as you exhale, draw your navel up and in.
  6. Squeeze your glutes and thighs together. 
  7. Hold the pose for 8 breaths

How to use Yoga blocks to flatten the stomach?

To flatten your stomach here are some of the poses you can try:

Tree Pose


Tree pose is an awesome Yoga posture for achieving a flat tummy. All you need to do is stand tall and steady like a tree, and make sure you keep your balance. This pose stretches your belly and can help you get rid of those extra inches and get a slim figure. Do it right and you can also get a toned stomach!

Steps
  1. Straighten your body.
  2. Make sure your shoulders and hips are in line.
  3. Now, shift your weight onto your left foot. Tense your core muscles.
  4. Next, place your right heel on the inner thigh of your left leg.
  5. Inhale deeply and reach your hands towards the sky, meeting your palms together.
  6. Exhale and hold the pose for at least 5 breaths.
  7. Repeat the Yoga for a flat belly 5 times.

How to use Yoga blocks for neck pain?

To reduce neck pain here are some of the poses you can try:

Extended Puppy Pose

Doing the Extended Puppy Pose with Yoga blocks is a great way to reduce strain in your neck and deepen the stretch in your sides, back, shoulders, and chest. You can use one block under your forehead or two blocks – one under each palm – like you would in Downward Dog. With a block or two, you’ll be able to better relax into the pose and enjoy the full benefits of this stretch.

Steps
  1. Bring your wrists to the floor so they’re beneath your shoulders.
  2. Your knees should be beneath your hips.
  3. From this tabletop position, slowly walk your hands forward until your hips are hovering over your knees and your thighs are at a 90-degree angle from the mat.
  4. Don’t go any further than you can without shifting your hips ahead of your knees.
  5. Bring your chest towards the ground to open up your upper back.
  6. You can either prop a block under your forehead or use two blocks underneath your palms.
  7. Hold this pose for 5 to 10 breaths.

Thread-the-Needle Pose

It is an awesome pose for loosening the stiff muscles in your upper body and shoulders. Plus, it’ll send a rush of fresh blood to your arms and hands, giving you that much-needed energy boost. 

Steps
  1. Wind your body downward.
  2. Take your feet off the ground.
  3. Keep your feet and legs aligned.
  4. To maintain your balance, lower your forehead onto a block. 
  5. Keep this pose for 3–5 breaths.
  6. Then let your feet touch the floor.
  7. Do the same on the other side.

Myofascial Release On Block


Myofascial release is a great way to reduce soreness and help your muscles recover quickly. It can also boost blood flow. Plus, it helps keep your muscles at their normal functional length. 

Steps
  1. Grab a block and rest your head on the edge of it so that your neck and the base of your skull meet.
  2. Hold it here for 8 slow breaths before turning your head to the right as far as you can.
  3. After that, move your head back towards the centre of your body until you feel a small mass of muscle.
  4. Hold it there for 8 breaths.
  5. Move your head back a quarter of the way towards the centre while still keeping it slightly tilted to the right.
  6. You’ll feel another small mass of muscle, and pause and breathe here for 8 slow breaths before going back to the centre.
  7. Then repeat the process on the other side.

FAQs


Is one block sufficient for Yoga?

Yes, one block is sufficient for Yoga. The block can be used to enhance any pose you do, making it easier to hold it for longer and also to give you extra support and stability. It can also be used as a prop to help with alignment and posture when performing poses that require extra balance. Additionally, blocks can be used to make poses more challenging, such as taking a pose that you already know and making it harder by using the block for support.

Is it necessary to have two blocks for Yoga?

It is not necessary to have two blocks for Yoga, but they can be helpful if you are looking to deepen certain poses. Utilising two blocks can help you find a greater range of motion and balance in a pose. It can also help if you are looking to explore arm balances or transitions between poses. Additionally, two blocks can give you more support and a sense of security while practising.

How to use Yoga foam blocks?

Get the most out of your foam Yoga blocks! Pick the right size for you – if you’re a beginner, bigger blocks can help with support; then switch to a smaller one for improved balance. Place it under your hands, feet, or hips for extra support. Keep it on a secure, non-slippery surface for safety. Spice it up with other props like straps and blankets for more support and modifications. Have a safe, beneficial Yoga practice!

How to use Yoga straps and blocks?

Yoga straps and blocks can add extra support and stability to your poses. The straps can help you reach further and balance better, and the blocks can help you with alignment and flexibility. Anchor the strap around your foot or leg, and wrap it around the block. Now you can use it to get deeper into poses like Triangle and Revolved Triangle. Blocks also support your body in poses like Downward Dog and Half Moon. With regular practice, you can use them to meet your goals and deepen your practice.

How to use cork blocks for Yoga?

Got a Yoga practice? Cork blocks are your best friend. They help with balance and alignment and provide support during poses. Just place one block on either side of the body and sit down. Take a few deep breaths and slowly move your body into the desired Yoga pose. Use the blocks for support if needed – keep your body aligned and balanced. Once the pose is complete, take a few more moments to relax and enjoy the stretch.

How to use Yoga blocks for beginners?

Yoga blocks are an excellent way for newbies to learn and practice poses without any issues. They provide a stable base for balanced poses, support for positions that need help, and a lift for poses that need it. You can also use them to deepen and expand poses. For beginners, start seated or standing and place the block beside you for balance or to deepen the poses. If you’re using it for support, place it at the right height to maintain alignment and balance. If you’re using it to deepen a pose, slowly move into the position and use the block to help keep your body in line and move further. To make the most of Yoga blocks, practice regularly and make sure to use them right.

Conclusion 

All in all, Yoga blocks are a total game-changer for yogis looking to take their practice to the next level. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned pro, blocks can help you get the most out of each pose. They provide extra support and stability, as well as helping you refine your form and alignment. So don’t hesitate to grab a few blocks and reap the rewards!

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