FAQ'S
PROPS GUIDES
YOGA PROPS GUIDE
Yoga Props can be used for a number of reasons in our practice. Exploring and playing with props opens up endless possibilities to access new experiences, emotions and movements transforming your body and mind.
We are here to clear up some of the myths and mysteries surrounding these tools. Whether these are your first steps into yoga or you have been practicing for years we hope this helps understanding what equipment is available to you at every stage of your journey.
Read our guide to learn more about Yoga Props!
YOGA BLOCKS GUIDE
Yoga blocks are one of the most all purpose props in yoga. They are probably the most essential prop used to facilitate or add challenge to the poses, help with alignment, and release tension.
Blocks help us maintain anatomical alignment in poses. Placing your hand on a block in standing poses like Trikonasana (Triangle) can make the difference between feeling strained to feeling free and flowing. The practice of yoga is about steadying the mind and body, whilst breathing freely and being at ease in your poses. The use of yoga blocks is essential to help achieve this throughout your practice. They should be part of the foundation of any yogis practice regardless of their experience.
To keep all yogis supported we offer a variety of different shapes and size blocks that you’ll find in our Manduka Yoga Block Family.
Read on for our guide on yoga blocks: Yoga Blocks - The Foundation of Every Practice
CARE
YOGA EQUIPMENT CLEANING DURING COVID-19?
There’s no question that COVID-19 has changed the way we live and practice. In answer to the heightened concerns about mat and equipment hygiene, we’ve worked with our scientists and studios to develop the following guidelines for how to properly clean your yoga mat and equipment. Read all about how to take the best care of your yoga equipment here!
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I THOROUGHLY CLEAN MY MAT AND PROPS?
Generally speaking, you only want to thoroughly clean your yoga equipment when you feel it has been exposed to germs. If you are practicing at home and no one in your home is sick, you really don’t need to disinfect your gear very often. Having said that, given the current asymptomatic spread of COVID-19, thoroughly cleaning once a week is probably a good idea. If you are venturing back out into studios, you should thoroughly clean your mat and accessories after every class.
RECYCLED FOAM BLOCKS
HOW DO I CLEAN MY RECYCLED FOAM YOGA BLOCK?
We recommend to wipe the block clean with a damp cloth.
WHAT MAKES THE MANDUKA RECYCLED FOAM YOGA BLOCK SPECIAL?
Manduka's Recycled Foam Yoga Block is first among equals, it redefines the quality and recycled content standards for all foam blocks. Between 50% to 75% of each block is guaranteed to contain a mixture of postindustrial and post-consumer recycled EVA foam without compromising durability or performance.
Read on for our guide on yoga blocks: Yoga Blocks - The Foundation of Every Practice
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CORK BLOCKS AND FOAM BLOCKS?
Both our cork and foam blocks are very firm and offer great support during your practice. The foam block is a lightweight option with a softer touch, while the sustainable cork block, is for those who are looking for a bit more weight in their blocks.
Read on for our guide on yoga blocks: Yoga Blocks - The Foundation of Every Practice
RECYCLED FOAM YOGA MINI BLOCKS
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE STANDARD FOAM BLOCKS AND THE MINI FOAM BLOCKS?
Manduka's Recycled Foam Yoga Mini Block is the first among equals - consisting of over 50% recycled EVA foam, this lightweight yet firm yoga block provides unbeatable comfort, style and support.
The Mini Block with only 200 grams and these dimensions 10cm x 11.5cm x 15cm is a smaller, more portable version of our standard Foam Block. Great for yogis on the go or for those who want blocks at home but don’t have space for the full-sized version.
Although smaller in size, the Mini Block has the same comfort, style and support as the larger version. From balancing postures, to stretching, to supported back bends, a block can allow you to reach further, go a little deeper into your postures, and support you throughout your practice.
Read on for our guide on yoga blocks: Yoga Blocks - The Foundation of Every Practice
HOW DO I CARE FOR THE MINI BLOCKS?
We recommend to wipe the block clean with a damp cloth.
HOW MUCH DO THE MINI BLOCKS WEIGH?
This smaller, more portable alternative to our standard foam block weighs just 200 grams and its dimensions are: 10cm x 11.5cm x 15cm. In comparison to our standard foam block which weighs approx. 0.45 kg and measures 23cm x 15cm x 10cm.
Read on for our guide on yoga blocks: Yoga Blocks - The Foundation of Every Practice
UNBLOK
WHY DOES THE UNBLOK HAVE A CURVED SIDE?
The Recycled Foam unBLOK is here to take yoga poses a step further. With its functional, sleek design, and high-quality eco-friendly materials, this revolutionary block will help you unBLOK your practice this year. Designed by Manduka's founder Peter Sterios.
It is designed with contours and ergonomic support to be gentler on the body. The curved side can also offer an optional balance challenged when used with curved side down.
WHY IS THE UNBLOK CALLED THE UNBLOK?
First of all, this block has the ideal ergonomic design for those of us who spend hours every day on a keyboard or behind the wheel, to passively release and unblock those “gnarly” tension knots in the thoracic muscles of the back… Secondly, the name honors this block’s unique departure from the standard yoga block, with its dual curved profile that gives unmatched comfort and support for chest openers and passive backbends. And lastly, as one reviewer recently said and we wholeheartedly agree – it’s fun to say!
Read on for our guide on yoga blocks: Yoga Blocks - The Foundation of Every Practice
HOW DO I USE THE UNBLOK?
For 'How to' tips check out Manduka's founder Peter Sterios in this video! Here he explains the evolution of the unique “unBlok”, a state-of-the-art yoga block designed for superior comfort and multi-functionality.
If you are looking for even more guidance on the unBlok check out our blog post on Revisiting the Beauty and Functionality of the unBlok and Unwinding with the unBlok.
WHAT IS SPECIAL ABOUT THIS BLOCK?
The Recycled Foam unBLOK is here to take yoga poses a step further. With its functional, sleek design, and high-quality eco-friendly materials, this revolutionary block will help you unBLOK your practice this year. Designed by Manduka's founder Peter Sterios.
It is designed with contours and ergonomic support to be gentler on the body. The curved side can also offer an optional balance challenged when used with curved side down.
This block has the ideal ergonomic design for those of us who spend hours every day on a keyboard or behind the wheel, to passively release and unblock those “gnarly” tension knots in the thoracic muscles of the back… Secondly, the name honors this block’s unique departure from the standard yoga block, with its dual curved profile that gives unmatched comfort and support for chest openers and passive backbends. And lastly, as one reviewer recently said and we wholeheartedly agree – it’s fun to say!
Read on for our guide on yoga blocks: Yoga Blocks - The Foundation of Every Practice
HOW DO I CLEAN THE UNBLOK?
We recommend to wipe the block clean with a damp cloth.
CORK BLOCKS
HOW DO THE DIFFERENT BLOCKS COMPARE IN WEIGHT AND SIZE?
- Cork Yoga Block: 1.1kg; 23cm x 15cm x 10cm
- Lean Cork Yoga Block: 0.45kg; 22cm x 7cm x 11cm
- Recycled Foam Yoga Block: 0.41kg; 23cm x 15cm x 10cm
- Recycled Foam Yoga Mini Block: 200 grams; 10cm x 11.5cm x 15cm
- unBlok Recycled Foam Yoga Block: 0.38kg; 10cm x 15cm x 23cm
Read on for our guide on yoga blocks: Yoga Blocks - The Foundation of Every Practice
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE CORK BLOCK AND THE LEAN CORK BLOCK?
Made of sustainable cork, this high quality yoga block allows you to feel secure in the support it generously provides.
The Manduka Lean Cork Yoga Block is slimmer than its full-size counterpart, but it's equally supportive. The thinner width is comfortable to hold and easy to travel with, yet provides a solid, stable base for your practice.
- cork block: 23cm x 15cm x 10cm
- lean cork block: 22cm x 7cm x 11cm
Read on for our guide on yoga blocks: Yoga Blocks - The Foundation of Every Practice
ARE THE MANDUKA CORK BLOCKS SUSTAINABLE?
The Manduka cork blocks are made of cork which is a renewable, sustainable material, which comes from the bark of a Cork Oak Tree. There are also no toxic chemicals used in the manufacturing of our cork yoga blocks.
HOW DO I CLEAN MY CORK BLOCK?
We recommend to wipe the block clean with a damp cloth.
WHAT IS A BLOCK USED FOR?
Blocks can be used as needed for extra support in any yoga practice. From balancing postures, to stretching, to supported backbends, a block can allow you to reach further, go a little deeper into your postures and support you throughout your practice.
Read on for our guide on yoga blocks: Yoga Blocks - The Foundation of Every Practice
HOW DO YOU RECOMMEND TO CLEAN CORK BLOCKS?
Use Manduka’s Yoga Mat Wash & Refresh to keep your yoga block smelling fresh and clean, and to thoroughly clean your block: Use Manduka's Botanical Mat Cleaner. For further cleaning guidance, check out our Mat Care Guide.
BOLSTERS
WHAT DO I USE A BOLSTER FOR?
Yoga Bolsters are commonly used in restorative yoga, prenatal and Iyengar, but can be a valuable prop in any style. They are very helpful for postures relating to meditation and rest. Some yogis like placing them under their knees or back during Savasana for added comfort. Using a bolster can be a comfortable way to open the chest and help one focus on their breathing.
HOW DO I CLEAN MY MANDUKA BOLSTER?
Remove outer microfiber cover from inner pillow. Machine wash on cold with like colors. Hang or tumble dry on low. Tumble dry on low recommended. Do not use dryer sheets or scented detergents.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE ROUND, RECTANGULAR AND LEAN BOLSTER?
The enlight™ Round Yoga Bolster
- The enlight™ Round Yoga bolster is a lightweight, classic, round bolster perfect for your knees and back. Filled with a resilient, long lasting 30% recycled fiber-fill, this yoga bolster provides a soft cushioning and medium support
- Its traditional round shape gives you the ability to go deeper into your stretch
The enlight™ Rectangular Bolster
- With its space-saving rectangular shape, Manduka’s enlight™ Rectangular Bolster features 30% recycled fiber-fill that provides a soft cushioning and light support. With a sturdy, easy-carrying handle, the Manduka Rectangular bolster offers the greatest possible versatility, performance, and support for any practice
- The enlight™ Rectangular Bolster is a good building block bolster - great when you're first introducing a bolster into your practice
- The enlight™ Lean Bolster is a lightweight, slim, rectangular bolster featuring a resilient, long lasting 30% recycled fiber-fill that provides a soft cushioning and light support
- With a sturdy, easy-carrying handle, the enlight™ Lean bolster is great for targeted stretches, and can easily be combined with other bolsters or props for customizable support
WHAT MAKES MANDUKA BOLSTERS DIFFERENT?
- The enlight™ Bolsters contain a 30% recycled fiber-fill surrounded by cotton filling
- They are considerably lighter than traditional dense, heavy bolsters
- The lightweight bolsters allow you to easily move & reposition your bolster during your practice
- The cotton filling gives a soft cushion with light to medium support, while the recycled fiber-fill provides good rebound to allow the bolster to maintain its shape
STRAPS
HOW DO I CARE FOR MY MANDUKA YOGA STRAP?
We recommend to hand wash the strap and hang to dry.
WHAT ARE STRAPS USED FOR?
Yoga straps are a great addition to any practice! Providing extra length so you can reach further and stretch deeper, straps are a helpful tool for yogis of all levels. If you're using a strap to lengthen your reach for stretches that are just a bit too tight, the shorter length should suit you. If you're doing a restorative practice, the longer strap will give you more options.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE ALIGN AND THE UNFOLD STRAP?
The AligN yoga strap combines the traditional strap design of the legendary BKS Iyengar. Made with unbleached natural cotton webbing and an innovative sure-secure interlocking buckle, this strap will support and enhance your practice.
The UnfoLD yoga strap has a double square ring buckle and is also made of unbleached natural cotton webbing. Slightly narrower and thinner than the more traditional AligN Strap, the Unfold strap is easy to take on the go.
RECYCLED WOOL BLANKET
WHAT DO I USE A WOOL BLANKET FOR?
Blankets are commonly used in restorative yoga, prenatal and Iyengar and are a great substitute for a bolster. They are great for any postures relating to meditation and rest, as well as Savasana. Some yogis like placing it under their knees or back during Savasana for added comfort.
WILL THE WOOL BLANKET SHED OR STRETCH?
We have combed each Wool Blanket to reduce shedding and pilling but, like any wool product, fibers can come loose and separate. The dense weave of the Wool Blanket makes it resistant to stretching and super warm!
HOW DO I CARE FOR MY NEW WOOL BLANKET?
We recommend dry cleaning the Wool Blanket, as this will give it the best care and allow for a prolonged lifespan.
If you want to wash the Wool Blanket, we suggest hand washing or washing in a delicate cycle, using mild detergents. Do not put it in the dryer; always hang dry on a line. You may also iron the Wool Blanket!
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE WOOL AND COTTON BLANKET?
Made of 100% recycled fibers, the Recycled Wool Yoga Blanket is moldable and foldable to support your body in restorative and dynamic yoga poses. Wrap yourself in ultimate warmth, comfort and versatility. The Manduka recycled wool blanket is composed of 75% recycled wool and 25% recycled synthetic fibers.
With slightly larger dimensions, this Peruvian recycled cotton yoga blanket provides both versatility and coverage. Fold, roll and stack in any way that supports your pose - the luxe, rustic fabric moves the way you want it to. The Manduka cotton blanket is composed of 52.5% Recycled Cotton, 35% Recycled Acrylic and 12.5% Polyester.
WHERE IS THE WOOL BLANKET MADE?
Our recycled wool blankets are crafted in India.
WHAT IS SUSTAINABLE ABOUT THE RECYCLED WOOL BLANKET?
The Recycled Wool Blanket is woven from 75% recycled wool fibers and 25% recycled synthetic fibers. Textile waste cuttings, which are typically wasted, are collected and converted into fiber. This new fiber is then spun into new yarn and woven to produce the recycled fabric.
COTTON BLANKET
HOW DO I CARE FOR MY NEW COTTON BLANKET?
We recommend to machine wash cold separately on a gentle cotton cycle. Remove promptly. Do not bleach. Line dry and warm iron if needed, or dry clean.
WHAT DO I USE A COTTON BLANKET FOR?
Blankets are commonly used in restorative yoga, prenatal and Iyengar and are a great substitute for a bolster. They are great for any postures relating to meditation and rest, as well as Savasana. Some yogis like placing it under their knees or back during Savasana for added comfort.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE COTTON AND WOOL BLANKET?
Made of 100% recycled fibers, the Recycled Wool Yoga Blanket is moldable and foldable to support your body in restorative and dynamic yoga poses. Wrap yourself in ultimate warmth, comfort and versatility. The Manduka recycled wool blanket is composed of 75% recycled wool and 25% recycled synthetic fibers.
With slightly larger dimensions, this Peruvian recycled cotton yoga blanket provides both versatility and coverage. Fold, roll and stack in any way that supports your pose - the luxe, rustic fabric moves the way you want it to. The Manduka cotton blanket is composed of 52.5% Recycled Cotton, 35% Recycle
