A new Pink Floyd song, perhaps? Nah, just a bad joke from a not funny blogger.
Seriously, though...there are yoga props of all kinds out there. One of the less obvious yoga assists -- although readily available -- is the wall. Yep, everyone has a wall and it doesn't cost anything to use it (and you don't have to lug it around with you to yoga class). Yoga at the Wall is a new book that offers a wide variety of creative yoga posture adaptations as well as illustrations of each pose, dos and don'ts, contraindications, and a variety of practice sequences for every level of practitioner.
I've used the wall myself, but I've never seen such a comprehensive resource. Using a wall is great for balance, stability, and a sense of ease and opening in your yoga postures. Some use it only for working with elderly or impaired students, but I think it's great for yogis of all capabilities. Click here to learn more or click here to buy the book on Amazon.
I first tried yoga using a wall in Warrior II. Here's an idea of what it looks like (nope, that's not me in the photo). The wall provides excellent support and allows you to really open in the pose. If you're wanting to try something a little more advanced, try Warrior III using a wall assist. As you can feel if you try either/both of these -- using the wall isn't just for the injured or those with limited capacity. It's for everyone!
If you are someone who struggles with health challenges, I recommend Relax Into Yoga, a fabulous DVD that offers 4 main practices for varied levels of mobility as well as 3 special practices to build strength and stability, improve balance, and promote relaxation. Carol Krucoff -- whose work I respect greatly -- has teamed up with yoga therapist Kimberly Carson to offer this DVD of safe and simple practices that include practices that can be done in a bed, with a chair, and lying down on the floor.
Yes, us yogis need support every now and again -- and we shouldn't be ashamed to use it!
Namaste!
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