Tuesday Tip!

Prop use is increasing in the yoga industry as well as the wider health and fitness industry. This created a problem in 2020 as many things were sold out pretty quickly once gyms and other indoor fitness venues closed. But you don't really need a ton of props to participate and some props you can make yourself!

I recently decided to repurpose an old hard foam roller that I didn't use because I prefer a soft foam roller. I simply cut the ends off it with a sharp bread knife (that made 2 round yoga blocks) and then cut the remaining piece in half lengthwise to make two curved yoga block alternatives. Here are the four new props:
The curved semicircular ones are my favorites!
The round ones are almost the diameter of my hand:
A great shape for under my palms/hands!

I was able to make 4 yoga 'blocks' from one foam roller and the best part is the new curved semicircular yoga blocks I created are better (more comfortable) for some poses such as when laying on a yoga block for supported fish pose!

I also make my own yoga straps and wrote a tutorial to show other sewists how to do it! You can download the FREE printable tutorial here: https://adventurousquilter.yolasite.com/More-FREE-PDFs.php
You could even cut up an old pair of jeans to repurpose the denim and make a cute denim yoga strap!

When doing Yin Yoga I use a patchwork pouffe I made last year to support my upper body in forward bending poses!
I made several of these using scraps from my sewing studio! 
Upcoming Project Ideas
  • cute scrappy patchwork bolster for use during Yin yoga
  • cute scrappy patchwork meditation cushion
So many of the principles of yoga are contrary to the consumer culture that pervades the modern yoga industry! Don't feel you need the cute but expensive brand name yoga apparel or the expensive props! DIY or do without. You can substitute household items for many yoga props
  • instead of yoga blocks use a thick book
  • use a belt or towel instead of a yoga strap
  • for kneeling poses fold your mat to double thickness for extra padding instead of purchasing a yoga knee pad
For other health and fitness activities here are a few ideas
  • instead of dumbbells use a gallon bottle of water as a weight
  • Instead of purchasing a stand alone barre for at home barre classes use the back of a sturdy dining chair
  • Use your body weight! Lots of bodyweight fitness videos are available on YouTube!
So get creative and use what you have!

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