Yoga props, like yoga straps, can help less flexible beginner yogis get the most out of their practice by providing support in poses they may be intimidated by. At the same time, yoga props can also deepen the intensity and challenge of intermediate and advanced asanas, making them a great addition to any yoga practice.
A yoga strap is a long, narrow strip of fabric or other material that can be used to help you stretch more effectively in yoga poses. If you can't quite reach your toes in a forward fold or clasp your hands behind your back in a cow face pose, a yoga strap can help you still get a good stretch without sacrificing alignment.
Here are some exercises you can do with a yoga strap.
1) Seated Forward Bend
If you have tight hamstrings, touching your toes can be difficult and may cause you to slump over in an uncomfortable arch, which can lead to injury. By using a yoga strap, you can keep your spine neutral and strong while still getting a deep hamstring stretch.
Sit on the ground with your legs extended in front of you, keeping your spine tall and your shoulders relaxed. Wrap the strap around the soles of your feet, holding on to the strap with both hands. Slowly lean forward from your hips, keeping your back straight as you walk your hands down the strap. Stop when you feel a deep stretch in your hamstrings. Hold for 30 seconds to 1 minute, then release.
2) Boat Pose
If you are having trouble balancing in boat pose, or if you are experiencing lower back pain, you can use a strap to help you. The strap will help reduce tension in your spine and allow you to keep your legs straight.
Sit on the ground with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Place the strap around your thighs, just above your knees.
Lean back slightly and lift your feet off the ground, balancing on your sit bones. Engage your core muscles and lift your legs so your thighs are parallel to the ground. Hold for 5 to 10 breaths, then release.
3) Crow Pose
Place the strap around your upper arms, just above your elbows. Bend your knees and place your hands on the ground. Walk your feet forward until your knees are directly above your wrists. Lift your feet off the ground and place your shins on the strap.
Engage your core muscles and lean forward, placing your weight on your hands. Keep your gaze forward and lift your feet off the ground. Hold for 5 to 10 breaths, then release.
4) Dancer's Pose
If you're looking to achieve a deep backbend in your yoga practice, but lack the flexibility to do so, you can use a yoga strap as a "cheat code." A yoga strap can help you get all the benefits of a backbend without risking injury.
Conclusion
If you're looking to add a little more flexibility to your yoga practice, yoga straps are a great addition. Yoga straps can help you achieve poses you may not be able to achieve on your own, and can also help you improve your flexibility and range of motion.
Interested in trying yoga bands? POWERBANDS® has all kinds of resistance bands you can incorporate into your workout. Visit our online store to take a look at some of our offerings.
