| Many people do not know what is needed to take a | | | | much that your pose will be disrupted. This is an |
| yoga class or to perform it in their home. Not many | | | | essential part of yoga especially for beginners and is a |
| things are needed; however there are some essentials | | | | useful and helpful technique to get you into the desired |
| to that are a must when performing this exercise. A | | | | pose. |
| mat, strap and blocks are some of the basics things | | | | The blocks are used for keeping you balanced while |
| that you will need. | | | | performing this exercise. It is normally made of cork or |
| The mat is light weight and padded and used to | | | | foam, so that it is soft but sturdy. They are used when |
| perform the exercise. They come in many different | | | | doing poses that you have one hand on the ground or |
| textures which are all made specially to prevent | | | | you are standing with only one foot touching the |
| slipping. The texture of it is much like that of a hot tub | | | | ground. When a position requires you to have only one |
| cover or insulator. Some people prefer a specific | | | | hand on the ground it is often difficult to bend and let |
| texture but none are proven to be better than the | | | | your hand touch the ground comfortably. With a yoga |
| other. No matter what it's made of they will all serve | | | | block you will not have to bend as far but still have |
| the same purpose. An average mat comes in two | | | | something sturdy to touch. For poses that require you |
| sizes; 28" x 42" or 28" x 84". Depending on your height | | | | to stand on one foot the block will allow you to have |
| you can choose the one that's most appropriate for | | | | support on both sides of your foot giving you more |
| you. | | | | support and stability. These are a great asset for |
| A strap is a tool used to help gain flexibility. By using | | | | beginners and will help you to gain balance and |
| the strap people are able to hold their poses longer | | | | become better at this particular type of exercise. |
| and deeper than they could on their own. It is used to | | | | This exercise requires just a few things and all are |
| grasp a limb that normally would not be in reach of | | | | easily accessible. A mat, strap and block can all be |
| your hands. Like the mats, they come in different sizes | | | | purchased where exercise equipment is sold. Before |
| so that you can get the correct length for your height. | | | | buying these items it would be in your best interest to |
| They are typically made of two different textures, | | | | see if the class you are taking provides them. It is not |
| cotton and nylon, so that you can choose what fits | | | | necessary to have these items, however they are a |
| you best. Cotton and nylon are the two main choices | | | | all very helpful. |
| because they give some room for pull but not so | | | | |