Accessible Yoga: How Props Deepen Your Practice

This video shows preparatory poses for Kapotasana (pigeon pose). It's a process that can take months, and props can be instrumental in that journey. Remember, it's about consistent practice, not reaching the final pose in one day.

Using a yoga strap to work on my backbends. A strap is a fantastic tool for opening up the shoulders, allowing for a deeper and safer heart-opening experience without forcing the body.

The wall is one of the best props you can have. Here, I'm using it to practice my Pincha Mayurasana (forearm stand), building shoulder strength and finding the correct alignment in a supported way.

This is a restorative pose using yoga blocks to support the sacrum. It allows for a gentle, passive backbend that helps to release tension in the lower back and calm the nervous system.

Using two yoga blocks to support my upper back in a supported fish pose. This is one of my favorite ways to open my chest and shoulders, especially after a long day. It encourages deep, relaxing breaths.

Another variation of a restorative bridge pose with blocks. By bringing the knees toward the chest, you can add a gentle release for the lower back while still getting the benefits of the heart-opening stretch.

This is my first unsupported drop-back with overhead arms, but I practiced for a long time with wall support. The wall is an excellent teacher for building the strength and confidence needed for advanced backbends.

Here's a handstand flow using the wall for support and stability. The wall allows you to play with different leg movements and build the endurance needed to eventually hold the pose in the center of the room.

I'm using a yoga wheel and blocks here to work on my Vrischikasana (scorpion pose). Props provide the support needed to explore advanced poses like this safely, helping to catch the feet and deepen the backbend incrementally.