For pregnant and postpartum women, yoga can be a valuable and supportive practice that can help to prepare the body and mind for childbirth and to support the physical and emotional changes that occur during and after pregnancy. To make the most of your yoga practice, it can be helpful to use props and modifications that are specifically designed for pregnant and postpartum women.
Here are a few of the best yoga props for pregnant and postpartum women:
Yoga Block: A yoga block is a specially designed foam block that is an excellent addition to a prenatal yoga practice. This type of block is ideal for supporting the wrists and knees during pregnancy and can help provide a comfortable and stable base for postures. A yoga block can also be used as a prop for breastfeeding and other postpartum activities.
Yoga Strap: A yoga strap is a long, adjustable strap that can be used to help pregnant women to reach their feet and to support their weight during standing poses. This type of strap is especially helpful during the later stages of pregnancy, when flexibility and balance may be compromised. A yoga strap can also be used as a support for postures such as seated forward folds and restorative poses. And you don’t have to be pregnant to use a yoga strap! They are an excellent prop for any yoga practice.
Bolster: A bolster is a long, rectangular cushion that is filled with soft, supportive material. This is ideal for supporting the body during pregnancy and postpartum, and can be used for restorative poses such as reclined bound angle and supported child's pose. Honestly, I find it difficult to teach prenatal yoga classes without bolsters. They are my go-to prop! If you don’t have a bolster, you can try out pillows of various sizes. A bolster can also be used as a prop for breastfeeding postpartum.
Yoga Blanket: A yoga blanket is any large, soft blanket that can be used for warmth and support during pregnancy and postpartum. This type of blanket can be used as a prop for postures such as supported bridge and supported pigeon, and can provide added comfort and support for restorative poses. A yoga blanket can also be used during savasana for comfort or as a nursing blanket postpartum. A mama can never have too many blankets.
Birth Ball: A birth ball is just a large exercise ball, inflated properly. Not all birth balls are the same though, and you need to make sure to get the right size birth ball for your height. A birth ball is a wonderful support in the third trimester and while in labor! A birth ball can be used in child’s pose, malasana, while doing hip circles, and more.
Yoga is a valuable and supportive practice for pregnant and postpartum women! To make the most of your practice, it is vital to use props and modifications that are specifically designed for pregnant and postpartum women. Some of the best yoga props for pregnant and postpartum women include a pregnancy yoga block, a pregnancy yoga strap, a pregnancy bolster, and a pregnancy yoga blanket. These props will provide added support and comfort for your prenatal and postpartum yoga practice.
Remember, props are your friend - pregnant or not!