Ever try using shoe-boxes or books in place of yoga blocks? (Yeah, me too.) When you use an actual yoga block, you’ll quickly notice they’re far more effective than make-shift yoga props. Yoga blocks are designed with the ideal proportions, shape and weight to help extend your limbs and provide real stability. This 3-min. video (featuring yours-truly)  demonstrates how to use them in 3 different standing poses. Enjoy!

One of the physical goals in yoga is to stretch your muscles as far as they can go. Some of us are naturally flexible– surely you know someone that can jump up and touch their toes after having not exercised for months (like my 63-year-old Mom!) But for those with limited flexibility (like me!) yoga props can be very effective in helping to maximize stretches and protect you from muscle strain, or possibly even a tear.