How To

How to Use a Yoga Block

By eHow Sports & Fitness Editor
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The yoga block is a useful tool not only for performing yoga poses, but many other exercises and gentle stretching as well. It can be used for people who aren't very flexible, have injuries or are in the mid to late stages of pregnancy. Yoga blocks aid in supporting the weight and aligning the body properly. Here's how to use a yoga block.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Slip the block under your heels while performing the Mountain Pose to assist with grounding. It will help your spine align correctly.

  2. Step 2

    Sit on the block during seated positions, especially twists, to make the poses more effective and comfortable. The yoga block supports the sacrum and lifts the pelvis off the ground.

  3. Step 3

    Use the blocks as a lift for the hands while performing poses such as the Half Moon pose and the Triangle pose. It's especially helpful for people with less flexibility who aren't able to extend into the pose fully without the blocks.

  4. Step 4

    Use a yoga block to assist in performing squats during mid to late pregnancy or if you have an injury. Place the yoga block in its side on the ground and use it to support your weight and help you keep your balance. Open the pelvis by moving the legs outward, press your elbows against your knees and press your palms together.

  5. Step 5

    Place a yoga block underneath your head to support your neck while meditating or performing abdominal exercises.

  6. Step 6

    Perform the bridge pose using two yoga blocks as follows. Position a yoga block on its side against a wall. Lie down on the floor on your back with your feet facing the wall, about two feet away from the block. Keep a second block by your side. Bed your legs and move your bottom down close to your feet. Press your feet into the floor and lift up your pelvis. Place the second yoga block under your sacrum. Hold the block on either side with your hands and roll your upper arms out to expand your chest. Extend one leg to the wall and place it on the first yoga block, then do the same with your other leg. Keep your feet pointed straight up. Press your heels down into the block, straighten your legs and slide away from the wall with the second block still under your sacrum. Keep your legs straight. Remain in this pose for about a minute, slowly inhaling and exhaling.

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eHow Article: How to Use a Yoga Block

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