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Props can aid in achieving proper alignment from "summary" of Yoga Anatomy by Leslie Kaminoff,Amy Matthews
When practicing yoga, props can play a crucial role in helping you achieve the proper alignment in your poses. These tools are not meant to be crutches or shortcuts, but rather supports that can enhance your practice by providing the necessary assistance to help you find the right positioning. By using props such as blocks, straps, blankets, or bolsters, you can create more space in your body, allowing for a deeper exploration of the poses. One of the main benefits of using props is that they can help you avoid unnecessary strain or discomfort in your practice. For example, if you are struggling to reach the floor in a standing forward bend, placing a block under your hand can help you maintain length in your spine and prevent rounding in your back. This not only ensures that you are practicing the pose safely, but it also enables you to experience the full benefits of the stretch. Props can also be particularly useful for beginners who may not have the flexibility or strength to achieve certain poses on their own. For instance, using a strap in a seated forward bend can help you reach your feet and deepen the stretch without compromising your alignment. This can be especially helpful for individuals with tight hamstrings or limited range of motion. Furthermore, props can be used to provide additional support and stability in more advanced poses. For example, using a block under your lower back in bridge pose can help you lift higher and open your chest more fully. By utilizing props in this way, you can refine your alignment and access the pose with greater ease and awareness.- Props are valuable tools that can assist you in finding proper alignment in your yoga practice. Whether you are a beginner looking to build strength and flexibility or an experienced practitioner striving to deepen your practice, props can offer support and guidance to help you move safely and mindfully through your poses. Embrace the use of props as an integral part of your practice, and you may discover new possibilities and insights in your yoga journey.
