Yoga Alignment & Prop-Based Training in Mumbai
I use props like blocks, belts, and chairs to break down complex poses. It is not about looking perfect; it is about finding the right alignment for your body, staying safe, and building a foundation that lasts.
"Less talk, more practice." Here, students are using blocks on their heads to maintain stability and alignment in Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana. Props help us find the correct engagement in the body.
Demonstrating how to use a belt to achieve a deeper lateral bend in a standing pose. The belt helps the student to crawl their hand down towards the foot without compromising the alignment of the pose.
A class focused on alignment. Here, I'm demonstrating how to use the wall and blocks for support in Prasarita Padottanasana to lengthen the spine correctly before folding forward.
The art of alignment in Trikonasana (Triangle Pose). With the help of another teacher, I'm adjusting a student to feel the correct rotation in the torso and extension through the arms.
A tutorial on using a belt and blocks for Eka Pada Rajakapotasana. Props are essential tools for learning advanced backbends safely, allowing you to work on the pose step by step.
A workshop in Surat for yoga teachers, where I demonstrated how to use a strap to assist a student in Supta Padangusthasana. Understanding how to use props is key for any teacher.
A glimpse of our 5-day chair yoga workshop. Here I am demonstrating how a simple chair can be used to explore twists and hip openers in a supported way.
A tutorial on how to use a chair and a block to correctly practice Utthita Parsvakonasana (Extended Side Angle Pose). This method helps you understand the alignment without straining.
Demonstrating Natarajasana (Dancer's Pose) with the help of a chair. The chair provides balance and support, allowing you to focus on the backbend and opening the shoulder.
Another angle of using the chair for Natarajasana. This prop makes the pose more accessible and helps in building the strength and flexibility required for the full expression.
About Alignment & Props: Building a Safe, Strong Foundation
Using props is how we move past limitations. If you struggle with a pose, it is rarely a lack of flexibility; it is often a lack of understanding where your body needs support. I use blocks and chairs not to make things easier, but to create the right geometry so your joints stay safe while your muscles get stronger. Whether you are working on backbends or simple standing poses, these tools provide the immediate feedback your body needs to learn correctly.
My teaching is built on four pillars: Mobility, Flexibility, Strength, and Awareness. Most people think yoga is just about flexibility, but without the other three, you are just stretching—not building a practice.
Why We Use Props
Props are not just for beginners. They are tools that teach your body the 'why' and 'how' of a pose.
- Mobility: We use chairs and blocks to access ranges of motion your muscles might be guarding against, helping you open up without force.
- Strength: By using blocks in poses like Utkatasana (Chair Pose), you learn to engage your thighs and core without putting stress on your knees.
- Alignment: If you are a teacher or a student in Mumbai looking to deepen your Hatha or Ashtanga Vinyasa practice, understanding these mechanics is essential.
My Approach in Mumbai
Whether you join my sessions at The Yoga Tribe Studio in Andheri West or 5th GEAR in Malad, the goal is the same: to create a sustainable practice. I break down advanced asanas into manageable drills. We don't rush. We use walls for support, belts for leverage, and blocks for stability.
If you have been doing yoga for a while and feel like you have hit a wall, or if you are worried about injury, this prop-based approach is likely the missing piece. It is about being a happy practitioner, not a perfect one. Come by, bring your mat, and let’s put in the work.
Ajinkya Meher
I’m Ajinkya. I believe you don’t need to be perfect to be a great practitioner. I’ve spent years learning how to teach the body, not just the pose, using simple props to make complex movements accessible. If you’re ready to show up and put in the work, I’ll be right there to guide your alignment.
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