Yoga Accessories
Yoga is not an expensive hobby to take up. Fortunately the accessories it requires are relatively simple and even a complete novice will probably have some of the basic gear already. That said there are a few items that can be purchased for a relatively small sum. Here is a list of the main essentials for learning yoga.Clothes
Given that the essence of yoga is relaxation, the clothing worn should be casual and informal however it is worth bearing in mind that while loose-fitting garments meet the requirements for being both breathable and comfortable, shirts that are too baggy will flop down when the body is in an inverted position. This is particularly relevant, of course, for female practitioners in a group environment such as in a gym. Trousers are obviously preferable to shorts and these are generally less problematic although some of the more modern materials such as Lycra can cause the body to slip in some positions.Shoes
Shoes are normally not allowed in gyms or yoga studios so there is no requirement to invest in fancy and expensive designer-label trainers.Yoga mat
A yoga mat is a standard part of any yoga accessories although most gyms and yoga studios will either provide one as part of its session fees or separately hire out one to guests. The function of a yoga mat (or sticky mat) is to both demark your personal space (an important aspect of yoga) and to increase the friction between your hands and feet - something that can become important for beginners who may well perspire during some of the positions. The mat also obviously provides a softer surface on which to sit and this bit of comfort will be appreciated after sitting on a hard floor for a while. Apart from saving on the hire charges, there is always a question of how hygienic it is to share mats with an unspecified number of strangers. Most serious practitioners of yoga will soon find that they wish to purchase their own yoga mat.Optional Yoga Accessories
Students of Ivengar style yoga will be advised that it is essential to have the correct alignment in the various poses. In order to assist beginners to achieve these sometimes difficult positions, various 'props' are employed. Without these props, the body might not be sufficiently open and could even become injured. The principal props are as follows although it should be noted that this is mainly relevant for home practitioners as most gyms and yoga studios will have these essential elements of yoga accessories to hand.Blankets
One or two blankets are normally required. Initially these blankets are folded and used to lie or sit on during the session. They can also be used to help elevate the limbs if that is required by a particular position. Blankets also serve to help insulate the yoga practitioner from a cold floor and also to provide a warm covering during the final stage of each session during which relaxation and meditation takes place.Blocks
Blocks are used in yoga in a similar way to blankets - that is to help make the practitioner more comfortable and also to aid in aligning the body. Blocks are particularly useful when undertaking standing poses where the hands do not reach the ground.Straps
Not an instrument of torture nor a way for the instructor to discipline students, straps are used to aid contact between hands or between hands and feet where the two limbs do not quite reach each other.It is one of the great attractions of this form of exercise (and probably a direct consequence of its origins in complete poverty) that there is no need to invest in expensive paraphernalia. This means that everyone can 'afford' the necessary yoga accessories.