Yoga Accessories have started to enhance the yoga expedition only since the past two decades even though the origins of Yoga are very ancient. They are about as eclectic and range from the essential to the frivolous and fun. In the beginning it can be a mystery as to what you need by way of accessories. So we lay out some of the most essential yoga accessories together with bits of whimsy driven necessity that may be fancied once in a while.

Certain styles of yoga emphasize some accessories more than others. There is no hard and fast rule; if it helps with your practice use it. Since yoga is about making it as accessible as possible to adopt postures and bring the body into a state of poise and equilibrium for dynamics into meditation, then whatever helps the process is good.

Here are some of the most important Yoga accessories you will need in your regular practices.

1. Yoga mats

A Yoga mat is an essential accessory for Yoga practice, whether it is a standard non slip mat, ultra sticky or even an Indian Yoga rug mat. This is because it is essential to have a good surface that supports postures and is safe to work on. By far the most popular style is the sticky-mat. It is so called because it grips the floor and does not slide.

The beauty about having one’s own mat is that that just by laying down on it, you get immersed and attuned to your yoga space. It sharpens the focus and awareness to what you are about to do and helps create just the right mental state for a session. Yoga Mats are really one of the more useful yoga accessories though not considered absolutely essential by some.

2. Yoga blocks

Yoga blocks are simple tools that help you ease into difficult poses by strengthening, stretching, and aligning your body without strain. They open up the possibilities of letting your body stretch and enter more deeply into your practices with safety and confidence.

A Yoga block shortens the distance between you and the floor, providing a stable anchor point thereby reducing strain. You can use it to ground your lower hand in a standing pose, to space the hands in the peacock pose, or to support your hips in the bridge pose. Check out the Yoga blocks and their different uses.

3. Yoga straps

Yoga straps help you grasp your limbs that are normally out of reach. They also help you hold poses longer, greatly increasing flexibility. Yoga Straps normally come in three lengths, 6′, 8′ and 10′. They also come in different buckle styles on sturdy 1-1/2 inch cotton webbing that adjust easily and hold securely. Check out for comfort and fit before you buy.

4. Yoga blankets and rugs

Yoga rugs provide a bit more cushion than sticky mats. They are perfect for absorbing perspiration for the hot styles of Yoga. In order to avoid slipping on hardwood floors, it is advisable to place a sticky mat beneath your rug. Yoga blankets are a versatile accessory that functions as a prop.

5. Yoga bags and totes

The unique shape of a Yoga bag provides an interesting challenge when it comes to transporting your gear. Fortunately, you have mat bags, carriers and totes to solve this problem, from the practical to the luxurious. Nowadays, Yoga bags are available in all sizes, styles and colors. These are among the most practical of Yoga accessories.