Props are fantastic tools that offer endlessly creative ways for finding more space, freedom, strength, and stability in yoga poses. Here are a few suggestions with blocks as props, feel free to try at home.
Lift Your Toes in Camel Pose
Not a fan of this back bend? This variation can feel great throughout the entire spine. With the heels elevated, not only is the back bend not as deep, but having the feet above the knees (angling the shins) shifts the weight more into the thighs making it easier to press the hips forward and keep the thighs vertical, please pad the knees in this variation.
Uplift Your Down Dog
Placing your hands on blocks in downward facing dog pose can help you to maintain a lift through the underside of your arms and your shoulders. You may find that this creates more stability and allows you to find more length through your spine.
Place two blocks lengthwise, flat side at the front of your mat. From all fours, place your hands on the blocks with fingers spread, and press back into down dog. Lightly gripping the blocks with your fingertips, press down through the pads of your fingers and palms, thumbs may wrap around the block, and extend out through your arms. Lift the underside of your arms and shoulders away from the floor. Broaden your collarbones, and soften the muscles down the nape of your neck. Resist dropping your armpits toward the floor as you press the tops of your thighs back, lengthening your spine. The extra height you gain from having your hands on the blocks may also help you to move more smoothly through plank to chaturanga to upward facing dog if you felt like taking a vinyasa or two, or perhaps a low lunge with a twist!
Enjoy.
Lift Your Toes in Camel Pose
Not a fan of this back bend? This variation can feel great throughout the entire spine. With the heels elevated, not only is the back bend not as deep, but having the feet above the knees (angling the shins) shifts the weight more into the thighs making it easier to press the hips forward and keep the thighs vertical, please pad the knees in this variation.
Uplift Your Down Dog
Placing your hands on blocks in downward facing dog pose can help you to maintain a lift through the underside of your arms and your shoulders. You may find that this creates more stability and allows you to find more length through your spine.
Place two blocks lengthwise, flat side at the front of your mat. From all fours, place your hands on the blocks with fingers spread, and press back into down dog. Lightly gripping the blocks with your fingertips, press down through the pads of your fingers and palms, thumbs may wrap around the block, and extend out through your arms. Lift the underside of your arms and shoulders away from the floor. Broaden your collarbones, and soften the muscles down the nape of your neck. Resist dropping your armpits toward the floor as you press the tops of your thighs back, lengthening your spine. The extra height you gain from having your hands on the blocks may also help you to move more smoothly through plank to chaturanga to upward facing dog if you felt like taking a vinyasa or two, or perhaps a low lunge with a twist!
Enjoy.