That is the question, but what is the answer?
Me? I’m a prop junkie!
Five years ago though, at the beginning of my yoga journey, it was a very different story. I often heard “can’t” associated with props:
If you “can’t” reach the floor use a block.
If you “can’t” maintain balance use the wall.
If you “can’t” straighten your leg then use a strap.
I was already struggling with a sense of not belonging in a yoga studio. After all, I didn’t conform to the yoga image that was presented in books, online or in the media. That coupled with the notion that I should use blocks because I “can’t” do a pose made me shy away from props almost completely. I’ll show you, my ego yelled shaking fist and all! (I call her Lenora and she can be real…um…feisty?)
As I began to spend more time on my mat I realized 2 things:
The first is that there is no place for “can’t “ in yoga. Can’t is a negative and can imply failure. Failure? In yoga? Nope! Hard stop. There is only try and try again and try as many more times as needed until you reach your destination in a pose – wherever that may be (and using any and all the props needed to get you there).
The second is I was spending too much time and energy trying to fit my body into a pose. Props provided me with an opportunity to adapt the pose to my body. Blocks brought the ground closer to my hands. A bolster allowed me to sit up straight and be comfortable. A strap brought ease to my shoulders when I was guided to hug knees to chest.
Mind. Blown.
Props are an extension of your practice that can provide temporary support; support that can enhance your practice by empowering you to engage and sustain postures longer or settle and relax more deeply.
As if that wasn’t enough, what I really dig about props is that they’re there when you need them. Take them today, leave them tomorrow. Tune into your body and determine when and if a prop will provide ease, stability, strength or release.
Props enable me to move more joyfully and joy filled movement nourishes my soul.
To prop or not to prop? That is the question and the beautiful thing is that there isn’t a right or wrong answer because the use of props is as unique as your own personal practice.
So, do you prop or not?
We’d love to hear from you so drop us a comment below!
By Cheryl Hendsbee