What is a yoga block?

A yoga block is a tool that you use during asanas and stretching exercises to bring the ground closer. Yoga blocks are widely used by yoga practitioners. But physiotherapists also use them a lot, for example to support the back; or as support under the hands. It is a necessary accessory for certain standing and sitting asanas or stretching exercises.
It looks a bit like a large brick, but only in a softer material. Usually it is made of wood, foam or cork. The latter 2 materials are popular for yoga blocks, because they are softer and therefore kinder to your feet, toes and joints.

Yoga block in cork

The yoga block in cork is made of natural cork, which is a 100% natural and environmentally friendly material.

Did you know that cork harvesting is an environmentally safe process that was done 3,000 years ago? Every ten years, the cork is peeled off the bark of long-lived cork oaks. In this way there is a guarantee that the trees and the surrounding ecosystem remain healthy. Cork is extremely durable.

This yoga block in cork has beautiful rounded edges and corners. This ensures that you cannot hurt yourself during your practice moments. You also have extra comfort and an easy handle so that you can properly balance your body weight. You can tilt the yoga block in 3 ways.

Why should I use a yoga block?

If you want to perform the yoga postures more easily or to hold them longer, it can be useful, especially in the beginning of your first steps in yoga, to use a yoga block. You have better balance, you can focus better on the posture and thanks to the yoga block, the performance of the asana is fully utilized.

Know that not only novice yogis use such a block. Even very experienced yogis use a yoga block for extra support and increase the scope to properly perform the yoga posture.

It also depends on which yoga style you practice, how often you train and how much you need a block. For example, it is used less often with Vinyasa Yoga but more often with Yin Yoga.

• Creation and design by Brigitta Callens. Also see her yoga mats!