Props in Iyengar Yoga: A Complete Guide
One of the hallmarks of Iyengar yoga is the use of props—tools that make poses accessible, safe, and deeply transformative. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced practitioner, props allow you to experience alignment and stability in every posture. This Iyengar yoga props guide will help you understand the purpose of each item—and how to integrate them into your practice.
Why Props Matter in Iyengar Yoga
- Accessibility: Props adapt the pose to your body, not the other way around.
- Alignment: They help refine posture and bring precision to every pose.
- Safety: Props prevent strain and injury by offering support where needed.
- Depth: They allow you to hold poses longer and experience their full benefits.
Essential Iyengar Yoga Props
1. Yoga Block
Used for stability in standing poses like Trikonasana or to bring the floor closer in Adho Mukha Svanasana.
Supta Baddha Konasana Variation in Malaika Padma Pune Chic Yoga shorts in the color "Grasshopper"
2. Yoga Strap (Belt)
Helps extend reach in seated forward bends, bind poses, and improve shoulder opening.
Adho Mukha Svanasana in Malaika Padma Pune Chic Yoga shorts in the color "Grasshopper"
3. Bolster
Supports restorative poses, opens the chest, and promotes deep relaxation.
Bolster and chair combination in Malaika Padma Pune Chic Yoga Shorts in the color "Sapphire".
4. Chair
Provides balance and alignment support, especially in backbends and inversions.
Eyal Shifroni in Pune Chick Yoga Shorts using a chair, in Malaika Padma in the color "Waterfall". From the book: "A chair for Yoga" by Eyal Shifroni
5. Blankets
Used for cushioning, height, or support under the head, shoulders, or hips.
Yoga Blanket and Block used to support a pose in Malaika Padma Pune Chic Yoga Shorts in the color "Light On".
6. Wall Ropes
Common in Iyengar studios, ropes provide traction for spinal extensions and inversions.
Eyal Shifroni in Pune Chick Yoga Shorts using a ropes, in Malaika Padma in the color "Boulder". From the book: "Ropes for Yoga" by Eyal Shifroni
7. Yoga Shorts (Apparel as a Prop) 👕
Though not always thought of as a “prop,” fitted apparel is essential in Iyengar practice. Shorts like Malaika Padma’s organic cotton Iyengar yoga shorts allow teachers (and practitioners) to clearly see the lines of the legs, hips, and pelvis. Just as props reveal alignment, proper clothing makes alignment visible.
Malaika Padma Pune Chic Yoga Shorts in the color "Kathmandu"
How to Start Using Props
- Begin with blocks and straps—the most versatile tools.
- Practice under the guidance of an Iyengar teacher to learn safe setup.
- Don’t view props as a “crutch”—they’re an integral part of the method.
Props are central to Iyengar yoga, helping every student—regardless of experience—experience the depth of each pose with precision and safety. Alongside blocks, belts, and bolsters, Malaika Padma’s fair trade, organic cotton yoga shorts play their part in supporting alignment and mindful practice.
Equip yourself with the right tools—on the mat and in your clothing—for a grounded, transformative yoga journey.