Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards

I think I skipped out on blocks completely when I started, and probably straps too... but I was jumping into everything fast

Straps are good if you can't reach your toes with your legs straight, can't clasp your hands behind your back (either straight behind or with one arm reaching up and back and the other reaching down and back), or ... can't think of anything else at the moment. Some people need a strap for years, others never need it. You could always try a towel first (or maybe a fabric belt?) and see if that helps before buying a strap.

Blocks are useful if you want gentle back bend/stretches so you can place it under your back, or instead of doing a shoulder stand you can have your back on the floor, legs in the air, and lower back on the block to make it more of an inversion. They are also good for things like side angle or triangle when you're supposed to have your hands on the floor but you can't reach. For the side angle types of things, I tend to support myself on my leg instead of the ground. You can try out the postures and if you are having problems because of not being able to touch the floor and you want more support for your back or sides, then you can get a block. You might be able to use a book for some of these... I haven't tried replacements.

You will need a tape and a mat though! And a nice hard floor to practice on.

Great decision to try out yoga! Good luck, and I hope this helps.

Becca

--------------------
At least I've learned a lot about my
body...

IBS-A and still figuring things out

Print Remind Me Notify Moderator