Top 5 Yoga Props for Your Home Practice
- Joy Bartholomew
- Jun 23
- 4 min read
When I first started my yoga practice, I refused to use props. I was flexible. I was strong. I didn't need a block or strap to "do yoga". I've got this!
Now that I'm a few decades past that ego-centric person, and a more mature and humble yogi, I am embracing all that props can help teach me about myself physically, mentally, and emotionally when on my mat.
Props aren't "crutches" or designed to make you feel you aren't capable of doing "real yoga". They are to bolster your safety and confidence, help with alignment and ease, and help you explore new ways to access poses. So whether you are a beginner or a seasoned yogi, props can elevate your home practice.
Here’s a roundup of the five essential yoga props I use to create a studio-worthy experience at home.
1. Yoga Mat
A yoga mat is the foundation of your practice, providing cushioning and grip to keep you stable. For home use, choose a mat that suits your needs—thicker mats (around 1/4 inch) offer more comfort for sensitive joints, while thinner ones (1/8 inch) provide better stability for standing poses. Popular options include the Lululemon “The Mat” ($68) for its grippy, absorbent surface, ideal for regular or hot yoga, or budget-friendly Gaiam mats ($30 or less) for colorful, reliable grip. A high-quality mat transforms any space into your personal yoga sanctuary.
How to Use: Use it for all poses to protect your spine and joints, increase slipping, and use throughout your practice (seated, standing or lying down) for comfort and stability.
2. Yoga Blocks
Yoga blocks are the most versatile prop, perfect for bringing the floor closer in for poses like Triangle or Forward Folds, or providing support in balancing poses, such as Half Moon. Opt for foam blocks for lighter weight and comfort (great for restorative poses) or cork for sturdiness in standing poses. A standard size is 4”x6”x9”, and a pair is often recommended. They’re affordable, starting at $10-$15 for a set.
How to Use: Place a block under your hand in Triangle Pose to maintain alignment or under your hips in Bridge Pose for support.
3. Yoga Strap
A yoga strap extends your reach, making poses like Seated Forward Fold or Shoulder Stretches more accessible, and helps hold poses in more comfort, like Legs Up The Wall. An 8-foot strap with an adjustable buckle (like the Lululemon or Halfmoon strap, $5-$15) is ideal for most practitioners, though taller individuals may prefer a 10-foot version. Straps are especially helpful for tight hamstrings or shoulders. A belt or scarf can also be an option.
How to Use: Loop the strap around your feet in a Seated Forward Fold to gently pull yourself forward while keeping your back straight.
4. Yoga Blanket
A folded blanket adds cushioning, height, or warmth to your practice. Mexican-style yoga blankets are popular for their firmness and durability, but any sturdy household blanket works. Use them to elevate your hips in seated poses, pad your knees in Cat-Cow, or cozy up in Savasana. They’re versatile and often cost $10-$20 or less, if you use one from home.
How to Use: Stack under your hips in Easy Pose to align your pelvis or place under your knees in Thread-the-Needle for comfort.
5. Yoga Bolster
A bolster is a game-changer for restorative and yin yoga, offering firm support for deep relaxation. Rectangular or round bolsters (like the Hugger Mugger Standard Bolster, $50-$80) are great for backbends, chest openers, or Savasana. If you don’t have one, roll up a firm blanket or use couch cushions as a substitute.
How to Use: Place under your back in Supported Fish Pose to open your chest or under your knees in Savasana to relax your lower back.
Why Use Yoga Props at Home?
Props aren’t just for beginners—they’re tools to enhance anyone's practice. They help you find proper alignment, prevent strain, and make poses more comfortable, allowing you to focus on breath and mindfulness. Props can transform your practice by making it “more accessible and fun,” regardless of your experience level. Plus, many props are affordable or can be substituted with household items (e.g., books for blocks, a scarf for a strap).
Building a home yoga practice doesn’t require a ton of gear, but these five props—mat, blocks, strap, blanket, and bolster—can make a world of difference. Start with a quality mat and add props as your practice evolves. Explore how these tools feel in your body, and don’t hesitate to get creative with household alternatives. Namaste!
Joy Bartholomew is the founder of Reinvent Retired Travel and Wellness. She is a travel advisor specializing in helping empty-nesters, retirees, and the "50+ travelers" find their perfect vacation, whether it's a new city, country, or continent. She enjoys helping couples, individuals and groups check off itineraries from their bucket-list, and enjoy all of the luxuries and comforts in midlife on a mid-level budget. As a yoga teacher, she works with the same 50+ travelers to improve their health and wellness so they can travel better for longer and enjoy all of life's blessings.
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