:: September 2005 Volume 4/Number 6

PROPS: The Tools and
Toys of Iyengar Yoga

By Laura Faye

The utilization of props is one of the most distinguishing aspects of the Iyengar Yoga method.

The unlimited potential, creativity and ingenuity of their employment are testimony to the genius of Iyengar yoga as both science and art. In Iyengar Yoga props can be incorporated for a number of reasons. They are often considered invaluable as therapeutic aids to support postures for those who might not otherwise be able to hold particular poses important for their health.

Iyengar Yoga also takes advantage of props to teach specific actions such as gripping, squeezing, elongating or lifting. Once the action is felt and learned, it can be duplicated and the prop is no longer necessary. Props can also be used to make postures more challenging, to stretch further, to work harder and to expand. The set-ups are a wonderland of possibility ranging from a single block to complex combinations and arrangements.

BACKLESS FOLDING CHAIR
If the definition of creativity is to take the familiar and see it in a fresh new way, then the commonplace metal folding chair with the back removed is a glorious combination of ingenuity, freedom and inspiration. Back bend chair unlocks the upper thoracic in preparation for backbends; and headstand with two chairs releases tight trapezius muscles. Support the lower legs to relax the spine or flip it over for a super strong calf stretch.

Press the heels into the chair legs and use the symmetry of the seat to help keep the pelvis square while pulling on the back rim and the seat of the backless folding chair to deepen and extend the twist action in bharadvajasana (seated twist).
Photo: Laura Faye

STICKY MAT
Not just for standing on, the mat can be rolled and placed behind knees to open the joint, under the metatarsals to stretch the calf or along the spine to release the back muscles.

Often taken for granted, the sticky mat does more than simply lie on the ground; roll up two together and stand on them in uttanasana (intense stretch) to stretch and strengthen the ankles, arches, and calves.
Photo: Karen Lee Fisher

STRAPS/BELTS
Instead of scrunching or collapsing, maintain proper alignment by holding on with a strap. Being tied down and pulled open can make the pose stronger and deeper. Teachers also use belts and straps to demonstrate the sensation of rotation or give adjustments to students.

Increase the intensity of supta baddhakonasana (lying bound angle pose) and supta virasana (lying hero pose) by tightening a strap around the legs and hips. Although the hips, back and leg stretch is stronger, the strap does the work, so the pose becomes restful.
Photo: Karen Lee Fisher

BACKBEND BENCH
Because of its size and price, the backbend bench is less common than other props. Its main function is chest opening and reverses kyphosis.

Take time to breathe, walk in closer, fine-tune alignment and open the chest by holding the backbend bench with the hands and placing the feet on the rungs in vrschikasana
(scorpion pose).
Photo: Laura Faye

Laura Faye holds degrees in Biology and Chemistry, as well as certification to teach yoga according to the Iyengar tradition. She has been teaching and practicing yoga for over 20 years. Laura’s husband, Bobby King, builds yoga props consistent with Iyengar specifications.

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