Yoga Swag
Over the years I've tried MANY different yoga accessories, props, apparel, etc...
I'm often asked questions like- How do you keep your hair out of the way? What kind of mat do you recommend to prevent slipping? How can I stabilize my wrists? What kind of blocks do you like?
Here I'll share some of my personal tried and true favorites.
These are NOT paid advertisements, just some items I've found helpful FOR ME and happy to recommend.
YogaPaws HANDS
YogaPaws HANDS
I discovered YogaPaws several years ago in pursuit of a way to continue my Vinyasa practice while experiencing pain and tingling along the ulnar nerve in my hand and wrist. Typical wrist supports were not helpful. I found YogaPaws online and decided to give them a try. Immediate Relief! I was able to practice again without pain AND I was able to more confidently attempt poses I'd previously avoided.
They are so simply designed, yet they offer just enough padding to cushion my wrists and completely eliminated the discomfort I'd experienced without them. The added bonus for me was the non-slip grippy exterior and absorbent interior which prevents sliding on a sweaty mat. I originally used only the Elite version, and I continue to use the Elite for my Vinyasa practice. They offer amazing relief and support in Chaturangas and Inversions. When they released the SkinThin version, I purchased a set to try with my Hot26 (Bikram-style practice) and fell in love with them once again! In my Hot26 practice the Elite version was a bit thicker than I needed, but the SkinThin offered just enough extra grip to help me move more deeply into poses without slipping or losing my grip.
Elite: The Maximalist — those in need of wrist support or those who love a little bit of cushion.
SkinThin: The Minimalist — offering a Barehand feeling.
YogaPaws PawPad
I initially tried the YogaPaws PawPad to provide extra cushioning under my arms in forearm stand (Pincha Mayurasana) and knee support in camel pose (Ustrasana). It proved to be a truly sturdy and versatile yoga prop. It can be also be used as a wrist aid or head, elbow or hip cushion. The PawPad can be rolled up and used as a support for deeper poses or therapeutically underneath the neck.
It's made of natural rubber (non-toxic, PVC & latex free) with a thick non slip cushion. Unlike the other lower-quality yoga pads that breakdown after a couple uses, this yoga pad lasts!
YogaPaws PawPad
Multifunctional Head Wraps
Multifunctional Head Wraps
After years of trying to keep my long hair out of the way during yoga practice, one day I tried on a head wrap at Whole Foods. It was a great concept, but the fabric was too loose to keep my hair in place during athletic activities.
Months later, I saw something similar online. The first brand I tried was Buff Original Multifunctional Headwear. It was a game-changer! No more hair falling in my face, on my back or getting caught on my clothes.
I've tried several by Buff and I'm a fan; however, they are pricey and there are only a few designs I like. I've recently tried a few other brands and, so far, all good! They also tend to be much less expensive. Jury still out on how long they last after many washes; the ones by Buff have washed well, but are starting to show some wear. I'd suggest checking out the latest inventory on Amazon.com and browsing the different brands if you'd like to give one a try.