When you think about yoga classes, it's super important to help everyone practice at their own level. Not everyone is the same when they come into a class, and that’s where tools called props and adjustments can really help. Let’s look at how to use these tools so everyone can enjoy their yoga experience.

What Are Props?

Props are tools that help both beginners and more skilled practitioners do yoga better. Here’s how different props can help:

1. Blocks:

   • Beginners might have trouble reaching the floor in poses like Triangle or Extended Side Angle. Blocks can help them stay safe and aligned.
   • Advanced yogis can use blocks to make their practice harder by allowing for deeper stretches or tricky poses, like moving into a handstand.

2. Straps:

   • Newbies can use straps in poses like Shoulder Stretch or Bound Angle Pose to help with flexibility.
   • More experienced yogis can use straps to push their stretches further, like in a seated forward fold.

3. Blankets:

   • Blankets add comfort and support, especially in seated poses or Savasana. Beginners can sit on a blanket to make their hips feel better.
   • Advanced students can also use blankets in restful poses to help them relax fully.

4. Bolsters:

   • For new students, bolsters can help them rest their bodies in easier positions, making yoga more accessible.
   • Experienced yogis can use bolsters in Yin Yoga to help stretch muscles more deeply and hold poses longer.

Adjustments for Everyone

Physical adjustments can also help tune yoga to different levels. Here are a few ideas:

1. Gentle Guidance: Use kind words or light touches to help students find the perfect pose. If a beginner is having trouble with downward dog, suggest bending their knees or walking their feet in closer.

2. Listening to the Body: Remind everyone to pay attention to how they feel. It's perfectly fine to skip some poses or change them to feel better. For example, if someone feels tight in a backbend, let them know they can move into child's pose instead.

3. Clear Options: Show different ways to do a pose in your class. For instance, when showing Cobra Pose, demonstrate the full pose with straight elbows for advanced students and then show dropping to the forearms for beginners.

Building a Friendly Atmosphere

Finally, create a space where everyone feels welcomed. Use friendly language, focus on progress instead of being perfect, and celebrate small wins.

Example: Sun Salutation

When leading a Sun Salutation:

• For beginners, remind them to take their time and use blocks under their hands. They can step back to plank instead of jumping back for a smoother change.
• For intermediate and advanced practitioners, suggest adding a chaturanga or a jump back, reminding them to tighten their core and stay aligned.

Using props and making adjustments are key to making yoga welcoming for all. By adding these tools, you improve the experience for everyone and build a friendly yoga community. Keep trying new things and remember that everyone’s journey in yoga is different!