A yoga bolster is a common prop for restorative and other relaxing yoga classes. Here are a few things to consider when deciding whether you need one…

One reason why yoga is such an accessible form of exercise is that you don’t need a lot of expensive equipment. Really the only thing you absolutely need is a yoga mat. However, depending on your fitness level and what type of yoga you are doing, certain yoga props may be very helpful. For example, a yoga bolster comes in very handy if you are doing any sort of restorative or Yin yoga practice. Even in other types of yoga classes, a bolster can be very helpful for adding support and comfort during certain poses, as well as helping to maintain proper alignment during specific yoga postures.

Yoga bolsters can provide support for your back, neck, legs, and more, and allow you to maintain correct alignment and positioning while resting in a pose. They are also great for beginners who may have limited flexibility. Bolsters can also be helpful for those who are recovering from injuries or have other physical limitations.

While bolsters may be one of the bulkier yoga props, they are generally lightweight and not super expensive. Some yoga studios will have bolsters available for students to use during class. This is also a good way to get a feel for what type of bolster you may wish to purchase, as most yoga studios have a variety of different bolster sizes and shapes on hand.

There are a number of different sizes and shapes of bolsters and it is important that you get the correct one for the type of exercises that you are doing. It’s best to consult with a trained yoga instructor who knows precisely what you are doing and what your requirements are in order to choose the correct bolster for you. If you are doing yoga at home, videos may also help provide some guidance.

So, do you have to have a yoga bolster to do yoga?

No, but depending on the type of yoga you are doing, they can come in very handy. Those who maintain a regular yoga practice will likely want to get a bolster at some point.

Visit our online store for a curated selection of some of the best yoga bolsters we’ve found in various shapes and sizes.