Yoga Props: Support for Your Body, Your Practice, and Your Needs

In adaptive and accessible yoga, props aren’t extras—they’re essentials. Whether you're attending a class seated, standing, or lying down, the right support can help you feel more grounded, comfortable, and safe.

This guide covers:

• Safety tips (especially for chair yoga)

• Household items you can use as props

• Affordable links to accessible prop options online

Safety First — Especially for Chair Yoga

If you’ll be doing yoga in a chair, here are some key safety considerations:

• Choose a sturdy chair without wheels (or lock the wheels if present), rotation or armrests whenever possible.

• Avoid folding chairs unless they’re specifically designed for weight-bearing movement.

• Place your chair on a yoga mat or a non-slip surface to prevent it from sliding.

• Wall behind the chair? Even better. This offers added security for balance.

• If using a wheelchair, walker, or rollator, modifications can be made for you — let your instructor know in advance to ensure cues are tailored to ensure your safety.

👉 If you're ever unsure about a setup, it's okay to pause and adjust. Your safety and comfort matter more than any pose.

Household Items That Work Great as Yoga Props

No need to invest in special gear right away — many common items work beautifully:

The goal is to create stability and ease—not to have matching gear.

Recommended Affordable Yoga Props

If you’re ready to invest in some go-to props, here are a few budget-friendly favorites:

Mats

• Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat – good cushion for knees and wrists

• Manduka PRO Yoga Mat 6mm - investment for those ready for lifetime mat

• Manduka eKOLite Yoga Mat 4mm - my favorite travel yoga mat

Blocks & Straps

• Gaiam Yoga Block & Strap Set

• Cork Yoga Blocks

• 10 Loop Strap

• Deep Zen wrist support blocks, knee pads and strap

Bolsters & Cushions

• Gaiam Yoga Bolster - great starter bolster

• Hugger Mugger Bolseter - investment bolster

• Buckwheat Crescent Meditation Cushion

Chairs

• Folding chair with back – armless and sturdy

• Or check your local thrift store or Facebook Marketplace

Note: Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase at no extra cost to you. All suggestions are things I personally use or recommend based on safety and accessibility.

A Few Final Tips

• Don’t worry about what things look like — your props are here to support you.

• Keep your setup nearby so it’s easy to grab what you need.

• If you ever feel discomfort or strain, that’s a sign to add support — not push through.

Questions?

Need help figuring out what props might work best for you or how to set up your space? Feel free to reach out or ask before class — I’m happy to help you adapt your practice with ease and dignity.