6 Small Investments That Will Make A Difference To Your Yoga Practice

Guest Author: Jennifer McGregor

Nowadays, it is easier than ever to practice yoga without spending a cent. Anyone can get started with an online video and a towel on the floor, but the truth is that spending a bit of money on a yoga kit can really make a difference. As your commitment and skill level grows, you may want to start making a few of these small investments that can enhance your practice.

Yoga Apps

You already have what is arguably the most useful yoga tool of the modern world: a smartphone. Not only do you have access to millions of online routines and tutorials, but you can also download one of many excellent yoga apps to help track your progress. Some of these give you in-depth guidance from respected yogis, while others act as a handy library of poses.

Depending on where you practice, you may need to make sure you have a good data plan. Having your video hang, or the inability to download what you want to take with you is sure to throw a kink in things. With that in mind, contemplate what your needs are and how to best stay on track. If you’ve been itching for an upgrade, make sure to take advantage of deals that help you buy the latest iOS device or Android model.

Yoga Towel

You’ll be amazed at what remembering to carry a simple yoga towel can do to help your practice. Yoga towels are designed with enhanced grip, preventing any slipping and sliding during sweaty sessions and harder poses. According to Good Housekeeping’s guide, there are several great options in a variety of colors, from a full-sized model to a small hand towel.

Exercise Ball

While an exercise ball (also called a stability ball) is not a traditional yoga accessory per se, it can help you build the strength and balance you need to improve your yoga practice. There are a variety of core, lower body, and upper body exercises you can do with a ball that will make you feel more stable during your flow.

Straps

A yoga strap is both one of the cheapest accessories there is and one of the most useful. It is especially great for improving flexibility, allowing you to go much deeper into a stretch. It’s worth reading reviews to find a quality option, and steering clear of ultra-cheap yoga straps since they are not likely to be durable. Go for something from a reputable brand, and look for package deals with other props, like blocks.

Good Yoga Pants

The best yoga tights are sturdy, non-slippery, sweat-wicking, quick-drying, and not see-through. A high-quality pair can feel like a bit of an investment, especially from a trendier brand, but it will keep you comfortable, and can also motivate you to get on the mat. Of course, if your favorite old leggings still do the trick, carry on.

Alignment Yoga Mat

A slightly more expensive investment than most other items in this list, an alignment yoga mat is a great purchase for those who struggle with proper form. These mats have visual markers that make it easier to achieve correct alignment and can also be useful as focal points. According to VeryWell Fit, the best choices can cost upwards of $100, but there are also good options for as little as $30.

Don’t be tempted to go overboard and buy everything the second you aim to bump up your yoga journey. Investing in your yoga practice step by step will feel more rewarding, and you are much less likely to end up with a pile of stuff you don’t use. To start with, make sure you have the basics of a mat, comfy clothes, and a guide, whether that be a video, app, or in-person instructor. You can then build up your yoga kit from there.