The blanket assists with so much more than a means to keep warm.
Folded, the blanket can provide support in a number of ways - the most common being for behind the head and to access the lower spine.
The blanket:
Supports the body.
Ways to use the blanket as a prop:
Head and neck alignment - when a yoga teacher places a folded blanket behind a student's head in a reclined position it has more to do with alignment than comfort. For students whose head tips back when lying down, the blanket helps lift and lengthen to create a better alignment. A slight roll under the neck can help release neck pain.
Lifts tailbone into the body - many find it difficult to sit on the floor without collapsing into the lower back which in turn affects the upper back. The added height of a folded blanket (or in some cases considerably more) helps to bring the tailbone and lower back into the body. You cannot get lift in the spine if you’re collapsing into it. Another added benefit is the release of the inner groins, added height can open the groin area allowing it to release.
Opening the chest - one of the greatest benefits of yoga is learning to open
the chest, this opening happens across the poses. In the salamba sarvangasana (shoulder stand) inversion very few students can effectively open the chest without support, which leads to a collapsing of the spine. Creating enough height under the shoulders and arms with a stable support helps students to get the lift in the spine required to open the chest and protect the neck.
Choosing the correct type of blanket is also
important to create a stable support that actually works with you and not against you...
Cotton yoga blankets can be folded or rolled with clean lines and have enough firmness to support your weight.
Mexican blankets are often used but don’t quite offer the same support as a good yoga blanket. There can be some slide happening depending on the pose you’re using it for, but can be of great benefit when needed.
Fleece blankets are not recommended as they do not hold their shape when folded, usually slip and because of their softness, cannot fully support your weight.
There are so many ways to use a blanket, if you're curious on learning how to improve your yoga and access the different areas of your body?
Creating a healthier body can be overwhelming...
Taking one moment at a time to relieve an ache or pain can make a goal more achievable, and worth your time.
Wishing you great health, Tanya
Tanya is a certified Iyengar Yoga teacher based out of Abbotsford, BC Canada. She has been teaching since 2015.
Her greatest joy is being able to help discover movement.
