A Journey Into Yin Yoga

216 A JOURNEY INTO YIN YOGA

that each block has three heights. By rotating or turning the block, you can

achieve the height that is appropriate for you.

Bolster

A good-quality bolster is a must-have for your practice. Select a bolster that

is fairly firm and provides good support. I like the large, rectangular-shaped

bolsters as opposed to bolsters that are tube shaped. Although you could get

several bolsters, I find that one is enough. You will be able to use the bolster

in all sorts of ways to help you find your position. You can also use the bolster

as a cushion during meditation and pranayama practices.

Strap

A strap is another useful prop and is used more regularly in a restorative

yoga practice. If you find yourself inspired to do a mix of yin and restorative

yoga, then I would recommend adding one to your collection. A strap is also

helpful during cow face arms pose when the shoulders are tight. Also, if you

are stiff in your forward bends, a strap can be helpful. Straps provide lever-

age to help create a deeper stretch. An example of how this works would

be to lasso the strap around the bottom of the foot on the extended leg in

half-butterfly pose. Holding the strap with both hands, you can pull yourself

into the stretch. As your flexibility improves, you may find that the strap is

FIGURE 7.1 Yoga props and tools: block, bolsters, and strap.