A Guide to Yoga Blankets

Yoga blankets have been a staple in yoga classes around the world for centuries and are an essential part of any yoga student's arsenal. They are not only be used to keep you warm, but also prevent bad posture, provide comfort and support, soothe stress and tension away and can help you find your focus when used correctly.

A good quality yoga blanket is just a great investment, as they are the most versatile prop in both restorative and dynamic yoga poses. Being moldable and foldable, they can be used as a replacement bolster, be wrapped around a stack of books as a block equivalent, underneath your knees or wrists in kneeling positions, to support shoulder stand, as a cushion when you are meditating, but importantly provide warmth and security over your whole body or folded over the abdomen when completing lying meditations and savasana. Keeping warm after yoga class has a vital role in body healing and keeps your muscles warm to reduce fatigue and stress.

A dense weave that is weighted and stretch resistant, with 100% recycled fibres like cotton or wool blends will ensure your blanket is not only versatile but long-lasting. Overlocked edge stitching is also recommended as it prevents fraying. You will need to wash your blanket regularly and as most of these are wool will require a gentle cold wash cycle or hand wash and line or flat drying to prevent shrinkage and pilling.

With so many props, brands and designs on the market it is hard to know which ones will best suit your Yoga and Meditation practise, especially without being able to trial them first. Considering how lightweight a product is, how much support you require, if they are eco-friendly, what you want your practise to feel like and what beautiful colour scheme will make you smile and feel good while taking care of yourself are all important aspects of your purchase. Asking friends and coaches is also a great way to get feedback about the pros and cons of different brands and designs.

But the most important thing to remember is that no matter what props you use, that they are simply a tool to help you drop in, let go, ground yourself and support your incredible body, mind and soul. After all, you totally deserve it.