This post discusses 7 yoga essentials for beginners you can’t do without!
So, you’ve decided you want to try yoga. You’ve chosen a specific style and found the perfect spot to practice.
You’re almost ready. All that’s left to do is grab your equipment. In this post, we’re covering seven yoga essentials for beginners.
I’m not saying you need to get everything on this list, but I guarantee there’s at least one item here you simply can’t live without.
This post contains affiliate links, meaning that if you choose to click through and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.
Yoga Essentials for Beginners
Part of the fun of beginning a yoga journey is picking out your yogi accessories.
But with yoga growing in popularity, the range of equipment options available can feel a bit overwhelming. You might wonder, “What do I need to bring to yoga?”
If you’re attending a class, some items may be provided, but this isn’t always the case.
Not to mention, if you’re practicing at home or anywhere else, having your own gear can be much more convenient and comfortable.
While not everything on this list will be necessary, a few items will definitely help to enhance your practice and make it more enjoyable.
Yoga Mat
A yoga mat is one of the first images that pops into your head when you think of the practice.
It provides a cushioned surface to help prevent injury and make your postures more comfortable.
It’s such an essential part of yoga that some practitioners see it as more than just a tool but a space where the mind can escape from daily stress and find peace.
When considering which yoga mat to get, consider what you need. Are you looking for comfort, something lightweight, eco-friendly, etc…
Here are a couple of suggestions:
NON-SLIP PINK YOGA MAT
This eco-friendly yoga mat is soft, skin-friendly, and lightweight. It has a double non-slip design that comes with a carry strap and storage bag. Comes in different colors.
This thick, lightweight yoga mat features a textured non-slip surface. Made from non-toxic material, it comes in a fun design and various colors. Plus, it includes a free downloadable yoga workout.
Comfortable Clothing
I love yoga apparel. The clothing is usually so comfortable you can wear it while practicing or when out and about.
But that’s the point. The clothing is often made from breathable, flexible fabrics like cotton or spandex that help regulate body temperature while reducing discomfort.
A must for anyone who has had to hold a challenging series of poses for any amount of time.
Plus, wearing the right clothing can boost your confidence and improve focus during your yogic session.
Whether you are looking for yoga clothing, gloves, or socks, make sure that it is made from breathable fabric that’s functional.
Here are a couple of suggestions:
This soft, stretchy yoga tracksuit is incredibly skin-friendly and provides a comfortable fit. Available in two other colors.
LONG SLEEVE YOGA OUTFIT
This smooth, long-sleeve yoga outfit is made from non-see-through ribbing fabric and offers excellent compression. Available in a variety of colors.
Yoga Blocks
Yoga blocks are one of the many reasons I tell people to try stretching.
They are incredibly useful for modifications, particularly for beginners or those with limited flexibility.
Blocks work by making the poses more accessible, promoting proper spine alignment, improved strength, and overall support.
When searching for yoga blocks, you may want to choose one that is easy to grip and lighter or heavier depending on your needs.
Here are some suggestions:
CORK YOGA BLOCKS
These 3 lb cork yoga blocks offer greater stability compared to lighter foam blocks.
FOAM YOGA BLOCK
This soft yoga block, made of foam, provides lightweight support for your practice.
Yoga Strap
Another lifesaver is the yoga strap. This is a must-have for achieving a deeper stretch and balanced alignment.
Straps encourage flexibility and prevent strain by allowing you to reach further into your pose.
This enhances mindfulness since you can focus more on the breath and less on perfecting the posture.
This is particularly helpful in yoga styles like Ashtanga because I don’t care how flexible you are, you’re going to need that strap at some point. This also goes for the yoga block.
When choosing a yoga strap, opt for one that is durable, provides a solid grip, and lengthy enough to perform asanas. Straps made from cotton are soft and comfortable to use while those made of nylon or polyester are more durable and better for grip.
Here are some suggestions:
COTTON YOGA STRAP
This cotton strap ranges from 8 to 10 feet and features sturdy D-rings for easy adjustment. Available in a variety of colors.
This nylon yoga strip has 12 loops so it’s good for beginners and expert yogis. It comes in other colors.
Yoga Towel
Now, you may ask, “How does a yoga towel differ from a regular towel?” Good question!
Often, a yoga towel consists of highly absorbent, texturized, and quick-drying material, providing a better grip and slip resistance.
These are qualities regular towels lack. Yoga towels are designed to fit over your yoga mat and help collect sweat, which reduces slipping and injury.
They are especially useful for hot yoga sessions.
For a yoga towel, choose one that is made from textured, microfiber material that is long enough to cover your yoga mat.
Here’s a suggestion:
This yoga mat towel has a non-slip, textured surface that provides a firm grip for the hands and feet. It’s light, quick-drying, and super absorbent. Plus, it comes in numerous vibrant color patterns.
Meditation Cushion or Bolster
Yoga is more than a physical practice. It also encourages you to reach deep inside yourself for a spiritual connection.
During these moments, a meditation cushion or bolster can provide gentle support, give comfort, and promote posture.
A meditation cushion allows you to sit for longer periods in relaxation.
Meditation cushions can come in different degrees of firmness, sizes, shapes, and materials. Think about your needs before you choose one.
For example, round cushions are great for sitting while rectangular cushions provide more room for different poses.
Also, taller pillows are better for those with limited flexibility particularly in the hips as opposed to shorter ones which are better for practitioners with a wider range of motion.
Here are some suggestions:
This eco-friendly bolster is made from 100% buckwheat hulls and is wrapped in foam patting to ensure natural comfort. It is ideal for those who need to reduce joint stress and lower back pain.
Okay, so I’m trying to be impartial but I’m literally gagging over a few of these items. This pillow is gorgeous. It’s about 20 inches in both length and width, 5 inches in height. It’s hand-sewn and built for comfort.
Yoga Bag
A yoga bag is definitely an essential item for a beginner. It will store all your gear, keeping everything organized and ready to transport when needed.
Think about it: you may be carrying a mat, blocks, straps, and other equipment to and from class, so having one bag is just super convenient.
This large tote bag features multiple compartments to hold all your belongings, including side pockets for easy access to items like your water bottle. It also comes with a convenient buckle for carrying your yoga mat to and from class.
If all these items speak to you, consider purchasing a yoga kit. The one below includes a yoga mat, straps, two blocks, a resistance band, and a little storage bag. It also comes in two different colors.
Start Your Yoga Journey
There’s your list of yoga essentials for beginners. Starting your yogi journey can be exciting, but be careful not to go overboard.
I remember being particularly obsessed with yoga mats when I began my practice. I would buy them even when I didn’t need any more.
I had so many, that I even seriously considered purchasing a yoga mat rack. Yes, I had a problem… Anyway, have fun choosing your essential yoga items, and enjoy your practice!
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