What Does Yoga Blocks Do?

10 minutes read

Yoga blocks, also known as yoga bricks, are versatile and essential props used in yoga practice. These blocks are typically made of foam, cork, or wood and are rectangular in shape. They provide support, stability, and aid in maintaining proper alignment during yoga poses.


The primary purpose of yoga blocks is to modify and adapt poses to meet individual needs and abilities. They act as extensions of your arms, hands, or feet, helping to bridge the gap between the floor and your body. By placing the blocks in various positions, you can increase or decrease the height, width, or length of a pose, allowing for a more comfortable and accessible practice.


Yoga blocks are particularly useful for beginners or those who may have limited flexibility, strength, or balance. They offer assistance in achieving proper alignment and can prevent strain or injury. For example, if you're working on a standing forward bend but cannot touch the floor yet, you can place a block beneath your hands to support your weight and gradually work towards the full pose.


In addition to modifying poses, yoga blocks can also be used to deepen stretches, increase flexibility, and build strength. For instance, in a supported bridge pose, you can place a block under your sacrum to help release tension in the lower back and open up the chest.


Moreover, yoga blocks can be utilized for seated poses, such as the hero's pose. By sitting on a block, you elevate your hips, making it easier to maintain an upright spine and reducing strain on the knees and ankles.


Overall, yoga blocks are versatile tools that enhance your yoga practice by providing stability, support, alignment, and versatility. Incorporating them into your routine can help you progress in your practice, cultivate body awareness, and ensure a safe and comfortable experience.

Best Yoga Blocks in December 2024

1
Manduka Yoga Cork Block - Yoga Prop and Accessory, Good for Travel, Comfortable Edges, Lightweight, Extra Firm Cork, 4" x 6" x 9" (10 x 15 x 22.5 cm) (Pack of 2)

Rating is 5 out of 5

Manduka Yoga Cork Block - Yoga Prop and Accessory, Good for Travel, Comfortable Edges, Lightweight, Extra Firm Cork, 4" x 6" x 9" (10 x 15 x 22.5 cm) (Pack of 2)

  • MANDUKA CORK BLOCK: Made of sustainable cork, this high-quality cork yoga block has a firmness not found in foam blocks and allows you to feel secure in the support it provides. Easy to grip textured surface-- Great for beginner to advanced yogis
  • SAFE AND EFFECTIVE: Improve your practice by using blocks to maintain proper alignment, deepen your stretches, and to help stay safe by reducing injury and muscle strain. Perfect for restorative yoga classes, Pilates, meditation, fitness and exercise
  • LIGHTWEIGHT AND STURDY: Cork blocks have a firmness and support not found in foam blocks. Featuring a rounded edge for maximum comfort, support, and grip. Manduka’s Cork Yoga Block weighs less than coarse-grain cork commonly used for blocks
  • SUSTAINABLE CORK: Cork is a renewable, sustainable material. Responsibly made with no toxic chemicals produced during harvesting or manufacturing. Manduka is committed to creating responsibly sourced products while minimizing environmental waste
  • PRODUCT DETAILS: 9" x 6" x 4" Cork yoga block; Pack of 2; Keep your blocks looking great by wiping down after each use with Manduka's Botanical Cleaner
2
Gaiam Essentials Yoga Block (Set Of 2) - Supportive Latex-Free Eva Foam Soft Non-Slip Surface For Yoga, Pilates, Meditation, Grey

Rating is 5 out of 5

Gaiam Essentials Yoga Block (Set Of 2) - Supportive Latex-Free Eva Foam Soft Non-Slip Surface For Yoga, Pilates, Meditation, Grey

  • Stability plus balance: Yoga blocks provide the stability and balance needed in your practice to help with optimal alignment, deeper poses and increased strength
  • Durable supportive foam: These lightweight and supportive foam blocks are constructed of a durable foam with a nonslip surface and beveled edges for easy gripping. Premium blocks are 50 percentage denser than standard EVA blocks
  • Modify plus align: Use under your hands, feet or seat (meditation) to ensure the proper alignment needed in order to safely support and modify poses to suit your level of flexibility If you feel tight, don't risk injury and grab a block or two
  • Extend plus deepen stretches: Blocks make for the ideal yoga prop and companion, as they are an important tool in your practice to help extend, support and deepen your stretches while also working to increase your range of motion
  • Care info: Spot clean with mild detergent towel or air dry (Dimensions: 9 inches W x 6 inches H x 4 inches D / Weight: 4.6 ounce) Sold as 2 Pack
3
Hugger Mugger Big Blue Foam Yoga Block

Rating is 5 out of 5

Hugger Mugger Big Blue Foam Yoga Block

  • About the size of a block and a half
  • Lightweight and easy to Transport
  • Beveled edges are comfortable for Supported and restorative poses
  • Great for taller or less flexible yogis
4
Manduka Yoga Recycled Foam Block - Yoga Prop and Accessory, Comfortable Edges, Lightweight, Firm, Non Slip Recycled Foam, Midnight Blue, 9" x 6" x 4" (22.5 x 15 x 10 cm)(Pack of 2)

Rating is 5 out of 5

Manduka Yoga Recycled Foam Block - Yoga Prop and Accessory, Comfortable Edges, Lightweight, Firm, Non Slip Recycled Foam, Midnight Blue, 9" x 6" x 4" (22.5 x 15 x 10 cm)(Pack of 2)

  • RECYCLED FOAM YOGA BLOCK: Step up your routine with the unbeatable style, comfort and support of Manduka’s Recycled Foam Block. Great for yoga, barre, pilates, and home fitness. Lightweight and portable for home exercise or at the gym or studio
  • STABILITY AND BALANCE: Featuring slip-resistant contoured edges for comfort, firm stability, balance and support in any yoga pose. Great for beginner to advanced yogis. High-density foam is durable and more firm, less squishy than other yoga blocks
  • SAFE AND EFFECTIVE: Improve your practice by using blocks to maintain proper alignment, deepen your stretches, and to help stay safe by reducing injury and muscle strain. Perfect for restorative yoga classes, Pilates, meditation, fitness and exercise
  • SUSTAINABILITY: Manduka's recycled yoga blocks contain between 50% - 75% recycled post-industrial and post-consumer EVA foam for lightweight comfort with a conscience. High-performance sustainable fitness accessories to minimize environmental impact
  • PRODUCT DETAILS: 9” x 6” x 4”; Pack of 2; Weighs 0.9 lbs. To clean: Wipe with a damp cloth or with an organic household cleaner such as a 50/50 organic apple cider vinegar & water solution. Midnight Color


What is the purpose of yoga blocks?

The purpose of yoga blocks is to provide support, stability, and modification in various yoga poses. They are usually made of foam, cork, or wood, and come in different sizes and shapes.


Here are some common uses and benefits of yoga blocks:

  1. Stability: Yoga blocks can be placed under hands, feet, or hips to help achieve proper alignment and stability, especially for beginners or individuals with limited flexibility.
  2. Extension: They can be used to extend the reach in certain poses, such as by placing them on the ground to bring the floor closer to the practitioner's hands or by placing them between the hands to gradually deepen stretches.
  3. Support: Yoga blocks can also act as a support system during challenging poses, assisting in maintaining balance and preventing strain or injury.
  4. Modifications: They allow individuals to modify yoga poses according to their level of flexibility or injuries. By reducing the distance to the ground, blocks can make poses more accessible and comfortable.
  5. Core engagement: By incorporating yoga blocks into certain poses, they can help activate and strengthen the core muscles by adding an element of instability.

Overall, yoga blocks serve as versatile tools to adapt and enhance one's yoga practice, making it more accessible, safe, and effective for practitioners of all levels.


What are some tips for selecting eco-friendly yoga blocks?

  • Look for yoga blocks made from sustainable and renewable materials, such as cork or bamboo. These materials are eco-friendly and do not harm the environment during the production process.
  • Avoid blocks made from synthetic materials, such as foam or plastic, as they are not biodegradable and may release harmful chemicals during their lifespan.
  • Choose yoga blocks that are free from toxic substances like phthalates, heavy metals, or PVC. These substances can be harmful to your health and the environment.
  • Check if the yoga blocks are certified by eco-labels or organizations that verify their sustainability and environmental impact.
  • Consider supporting brands that have a commitment to sustainability and ethical production practices. Look for information on their website or packaging about their eco-friendly initiatives.
  • Look for blocks that are durable and long-lasting. Buying durable products reduces the need for frequent replacements, minimizing waste.
  • Consider the packaging of the yoga blocks. Opt for brands that use minimal and recyclable packaging materials to prevent excessive waste.
  • If possible, choose locally made yoga blocks to reduce carbon emissions associated with transportation.
  • Take care of your yoga blocks to prolong their lifespan. Clean them regularly and store them properly to prevent unnecessary wear and tear.
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