Prop Spotlight - Blocks

Lets talk a bit about props. I used to be completely anti props. I was a major purist. All I needed was myself and the ground. Nowadays I'm really into my props when I need them. I still don't use bolsters and stuff, but I use blocks and straps pretty regularly. If you don't have any of your own blocks I recommend you get some. I own 2 pairs - one foam and one cork, but one pair should be sufficient for anyone. Some people get cork or wood for home and foam for taking out in public. There are also wooden blocks, but I've never used them so I can't say anything about them one way or the other.

I find that foam blocks are great for balancing on, putting under my spine (less hard edges), doing things where I fear I might drop them on myself, etc. I like my cork blocks for pretty much everything else. They're more eco-friendly, solid, wear well, and easy on the eyes. They're considerably more expensive, but if you can swing it they're worth it. I got mine for christmas one year.

Something to keep in mind: 
Using props doesn't always mean that you're doing the "modified" version of something. Even if it did that doesn't mean you don't need it sometimes. Let go of your ego and get some props. I like Yoga Accessories for that.

Just a few of the things you can do with blocks:

Place a block between your thighs to learn to draw your legs toward the midline.

Restorative bridge was the first pose to make me love blocks. Opens up the front hips.

Under shoulderblades a block helps open your chest. A M A Z I N G !
If you try this - roll to the side to come up. Not forward or you can hurt vertebrae.

Helps provide extra lift while you work on building more strength to hold yourself up.

Helps keep your poses from being soggy... and helps prevent pulled groins while still making you do the work.
I also suggest this method for pigeon pose.

Brings the ground to you so you can work on alignment more than depth.

Please don't try these poses without speaking to your Dr. first if you have any medical/physical problems (or if they're just beyond your capabilities - be honest). If you're unsure - seek a teacher's advice/supervision. Seek Peace At Your Own Risk!