Why do you have two yoga blocks?

Having two yoga blocks serves several purposes during a yoga practice. The blocks can provide support, increase range of motion, improve alignment, and make poses more accessible. While one block can be useful, having two opens up more possibilities.

Using Two Blocks for Symmetry and Support

One of the main reasons to use two yoga blocks is to create symmetry in a pose. When doing a pose like Extended Side Angle, placing a block under each hand evenly distributes the weight and provides stability on both sides of the body. This prevents overstretching or collapsing on one side.

Having two blocks also allows you to stack them to create more height and support in poses where greater elevation is needed. For example, in a seated forward fold, stacking the blocks can help reduce rounding in the spine and bring the torso closer to the legs if there is limited flexibility.

Similarly, in Warrior I, placing a block under each front foot can help maintain proper alignment if the hips are tight. The blocks act like a wedge to lift the heel higher and square off the hips.

Modifying Poses with Two Blocks

Another benefit of having two blocks is being able to modify poses in different ways. This makes yoga more accessible for people with limitations or varying fitness levels.

Blocks can be used to add a gentler option for beginners or take weight off of sensitive joints. For instance, placing a block under each hand in Table Top or under each foot in Downward Facing Dog can reduce wrist and ankle strain.

The blocks also provide a progression by allowing you to gradually decrease their height as flexibility increases. Blocks make the shape of the pose more attainable while building strength.

Common Ways to Use Blocks

Here are some common ways to utilize two blocks in yoga poses:

  • Under hands in Downward Facing Dog
  • Under feet in Downward Facing Dog
  • Under hands in a Standing Forward Fold
  • Under front foot in Warrior I
  • Under hands in Extended Side Angle Pose
  • Support thighs in Bound Angle Pose
  • Raise seated posture in Seated Forward Fold
  • Elevate hips in Bridge Pose
  • Support head in Shoulder Stand

Using Blocks for Range of Motion

One of the biggest benefits of yoga blocks is that they can help increase range of motion in various poses. The blocks essentially act like an extension of your body to safely take you deeper into stretches and strengthen flexibility.

For example, in Triangle Pose, placing a block on the pinky toe side of the front foot allows your torso to open and reach further past your front leg. This creates more space to stretch the sides of the waist and rib cage.

In poses like Pyramid or Half Split, blocks under both hands increase the distance you can fold over your front leg. Maintaining length in the spine versus rounding enables a deeper overall stretch.

Blocks can even be used to deepen backbends like Bridge and Wheel. Placing them under the hands lifts the chest higher and encourages greater extension through the front of the torso.

How Blocks Increase Flexibility

There are a few key ways that blocks help improve flexibility:

  • Allow you to gently ease into deeper poses
  • Help maintain proper alignment as you increase range of motion
  • Reduce risk of overstretching or straining
  • Give you something to actively press against and lengthen your body
  • Provide elevation for maximum stretch with control

Enhancing Alignment with Two Blocks

Using two blocks is also very effective for improving alignment in yoga poses. Poor alignment can place undue stress on muscles and joints and even lead to injury over time.

Blocks reinforce proper form by bringing various body parts into optimal positions. For example, placing blocks under the hands in Downward Facing Dog can help press the shoulders back and down away from the ears.

In Tree Pose, a block between the thighs aligns the pelvis and creates lift through the lower belly and spine. Blocks under the big toes in a Standing Forward Fold keep the feet actively rooted while effectively tilting the pelvis forward.

Stacking blocks can also help correct alignment in seated postures. Elevating the hips promotes the natural curves of the spine versus slumping and rounding forward.

Common Alignment Benefits of Blocks

Some alignment corrections that blocks commonly provide include:

  • Squaring hips and shoulders
  • Rolling shoulders back and down
  • Lengthening the spine
  • Engaging leg muscles
  • Tilting pelvis properly
  • Centering weight evenly
  • Reducing arch in lower back
  • Lifting the chest

Using Blocks in Different Types of Yoga

Yoga blocks serve beneficial purposes across yoga styles and ability levels. They can be integrated in many creative ways depending on your practice.

Blocks in Vinyasa and Power Yoga

For dynamic styles like Vinyasa and Power Yoga, blocks are extremely helpful for proper alignment in flowing postures. They also allow students to experience the deeper aspects of poses that require increased flexibility.

Blocks can provide added support during one-legged balances like Standing Bow or Crow Pose. They also give beginners an opportunity to join in faster-paced classes in a safe way.

Blocks in Hatha and Gentle Yoga

In more gently-paced practices like Hatha and Gentle Yoga, blocks have space to become an integral prop. Blocks help harness stability in held poses and provide unlimited modifications.

Students can use blocks to find comfort, work within range of motion limitations, and progressively challenge themselves. The blocks complement slower exploration of mindfulness-based movement.

Blocks in Restorative Yoga

Restorative Yoga relies on props to facilitate complete mental and physical relaxation. Blocks help achieve proper body positioning for maximum rest.

They are used to support the body in passive poses for extended periods of time. Having two blocks allows symmetrical resting for both sides of the body. This helps quiet the nervous system.

Choosing Good Yoga Blocks

To fully benefit from using two yoga blocks in your practice, it helps to choose good quality blocks. Here are some things to look for when selecting blocks:

  • Material – Cork and foam are preferred over wood due to being less slippery and more joint-friendly.
  • Density – Denser blocks keep their shape better for stability.
  • Size – Standard size is around 9x6x4 inches but there are also smaller or mini options.
  • Texture – Some level of stickiness helps with gripping and preventing sliding.
  • Shape – Different shapes like wedges and ramps serve unique purposes.
  • Weight – Lighter blocks are more portable and easier to adjust.

Finding blocks with the appropriate qualities for your needs and practice style will allow you to get the most out of using them.

Caring for Yoga Blocks

Making your two yoga blocks last means properly maintaining them. Here are some tips for keeping blocks in good condition:

  • Check for any cracks or damage after use. Replace blocks if compromised.
  • Clean regularly with gentle soap and water, especially after heavy sweating.
  • Avoid harsh cleaners which can deteriorate the material.
  • Allow blocks to air dry thoroughly if washing.
  • Store blocks in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
  • To sanitize, occasionally wipe down with diluted tea tree oil or eucalyptus oil.
  • Travel with blocks in a bag to prevent damage.

With proper care and maintenance, a quality pair of yoga blocks can last for many years of enjoyable practice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are yoga blocks necessary?

Yoga blocks are not mandatory, but they are very useful props to have on hand. Blocks make poses more accessible, improve alignment, increase flexibility, and add support. They allow students to customize their practice to their own body and abilities. Many poses can be enhanced with the strategic use of blocks.

What size yoga blocks should I get?

The standard yoga block size is around 9 inches long x 6 inches wide x 4 inches high. This medium size is suitable for most needs. You can also find more compact mini blocks around 4 x 6 x 2 inches for hand placement or travel. Larger 10 x 8 x 4 inch blocks work well for restorative yoga.

How many yoga blocks are ideal?

Having at least two yoga blocks is recommended so you can use one for each side of the body to promote symmetry. Some students prefer four blocks to allow using two on each side or stack combinations. One block alone limits options, while more than four may be excessive.

Should I get cork or foam blocks?

Both cork and foam blocks have advantages. Cork provides great traction and moldability but is more expensive. Foam is ultimately cheaper, still grippy, and comes in fun colors. However, foam retains odors and weighs more. Try out each kind to determine your personal preference.

Can I use yoga blocks every practice?

You can absolutely incorporate yoga blocks into every practice. Using props whenever needed allows you to go deeper, hold proper alignment, and feel more stable. Don’t feel pressured to avoid blocks in favor of “purist” yoga. Props serve a very useful purpose.

Conclusion

Having two yoga blocks available provides more options to enhance your practice in various ways. Blocks support proper form, increase range of motion, offer modifications, and aid relaxation. Investing in a quality pair of blocks can elevate almost any yoga pose while making yoga more accessible. Integrate blocks strategically throughout your routines to amplify the benefits.

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