Why are yoga props especially important for older people?
A. Props allow older beginners to safely practice poses they would ordinarily not be able to do. For example, if you are unable to bend forward and bring your hands to the floor without straining, you can place your hands on a chair or wall. As the backs of your legs become more flexible, you will find that you can put your hands on a lower prop, such as a bench or a block. By the time people at midlife and older start yoga, they often have a wide range of problems, ranging from back and neck pain to knee problems to old injuries. They may be recovering from surgery or coping with problems like arthritis. The more problems and health issues a person has, the more useful yoga props are. Props allow you to stay in poses longer, so you can experience their healing effects. By supporting the body in the yoga posture, muscles can lengthen in a passive, non strenuous way. By opening the body, the use of props also helps to improve blood circulation and breathing capacity. Props like walls an
