Yoga blocks can be invaluable tools in enhancing flexibility by providing support and modifying poses. They offer stability and help you achieve proper alignment, making stretches more accessible and effective. Here are some ways in which yoga blocks can be foundational in improving flexibility:
Alignment assistance:
Use blocks to bring the floor closer to you in standing forward bends or seated stretches. This helps maintain proper spinal alignment and prevents rounding of the back.
Supported splits:
For poses like the splits, place blocks under your hands for support. This allows you to focus on lengthening and stretching the muscles without straining or forcing your body into the pose.
Pike stretch:
Sit with your legs extended and place a block on your shins or feet. Reach forward, hinging at the hips, and use the block as a support to maintain a flat back and deepen the stretch.
Chest opener:
In chest-opening poses like camel pose or bridge pose, place a block under your hands or between your shoulder blades. This provides support and allows you to ease into the backbend gradually.
Hamstring stretch:
Sit with your legs extended and use a block to support your hands. This helps to maintain a straight spine while reaching forward, intensifying the stretch in the hamstrings.
Shoulder opener:
In poses like cow face pose or eagle pose, use blocks between your hands to create space and ease tension in the shoulders. This is particularly helpful if you find it challenging to bring your palms together.
Lizard pose modification:
In lizard pose, place blocks under your hands for added height. This modification allows you to focus on hip flexibility without compromising stability.
Seated forward bend:
Sit with your legs extended and place a block on your thighs or shins. As you hinge forward, use the block to support your hands, making the stretch more accessible and allowing for a longer hold.
Quad stretch:
In a kneeling position, use blocks under your hands to support your upper body. Bend one knee and bring the foot towards your glutes, grabbing the foot with your hand for a quad stretch.
Supported backbends:
Place blocks under your hands in backbends like bridge or wheel pose. This provides extra lift and support, making it easier to open the chest and lengthen the spine.
Remember to breathe deeply and mindfully in each stretch, and never push your body beyond its limits. Yoga blocks can empower you to explore and improve flexibility gradually, with proper alignment and support. Over time, as your flexibility increases, you may find that you need the blocks less frequently or can use them in more advanced ways to deepen your practice.
