Things You'll Need:
- Yoga Mat
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Step 1
Buy a yoga mat. If you only buy one piece of equipment, make sure it is a mat, which provides the best surface for practicing yoga. A quality mat should provide light support and keep you from slipping around, which means that it should be slightly sticky.
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Step 2
Look at the different types of blocks available before you purchase them. Blocks are used to support different parts of your body as you move through the various positions. Wood is the best choice, but foam and cork are also popular. Select firm blocks instead of squishy foam ones that will not support your weight.
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Step 3
Consider purchasing a yoga strap, which will help in reclining and stretching poses where your hands do not touch your feet or the floor. Select a strap that is just long enough for your height. Try to find one with only one seam, as straps that are pieced together tend to rip after repeated use.
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Step 4
Select a few blankets to use in your yoga practice. Blankets can provide support during certain asanas (yoga poses). With this piece of equipment, folding it is really the key. The Prevention magazine website offers a guide to proper folding techniques. See Resources below for a link.
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Step 5
Purchase a meditation cushion if you plan on meditating regularly. Select a cushion based on your body type and what feels comfortable to you. Since these cushions will be used to sit on for long periods of time, you should focus on comfort first.
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Step 6
Buy a yoga bag if you will be attending classes on a regular basis. A yoga bag not only protects your mat and makes it easy to carry, but it can hold other equipment you may need in class. Select one that, at the very least, has room for a water bottle, a towel and your keys.
