Props are not optional elements in Oncology Yoga. They are an essential part of the practice. They protect vulnerable joints, support balance, reduce unnecessary strain, and make poses accessible for bodies that have been through treatment. Using them is not a sign of limitation. It is good judgment.
The goal of a prop is simple: to make sure your practice is safe, accessible, and genuinely beneficial — not to make a pose look a certain way, but to let your body actually experience its benefits.
Why Props Matter
For anyone in active treatment or recovery, the body doesn’t always move, bend, or hold weight the way it used to — and that’s exactly what props are there for. They:
- Support a body that’s dealing with fatigue, reduced flexibility, or treatment side effects
- Encourage proper alignment, so a pose does what it’s meant to do rather than straining a joint
- Make it possible to enter a pose gradually, rather than forcing your way in
- Prevent over-stretching and unnecessary joint strain
- Provide the stability that actually lets you relax — you can’t let go of a pose you’re afraid of falling out of
Watch the props video below for a practical introduction to using each one.
Your Core Props
In a studio or class setting, props will typically be provided for you. At home, you can use what you already have — below are some suggestions for each.
Mat. A firm, non-slip mat gives your hands and feet a stable surface. A hardwood or low-pile carpeted floor works too — avoid tile or anything slippery. Too much cushioning under you actually makes balance harder, so firmer is generally better than plush.
Blocks. Blocks bring the floor up to you. They support your hands in standing poses, help you balance, and let you move into and out of a pose safely rather than reaching or straining for the ground. Teachers often use a simple check called the Block Test to find the right height for you — it’s not about your flexibility, it’s about protecting your spine and lower back and keeping your chest open so you can breathe fully. The number of blocks you need can change class to class, and that’s completely normal.
Chair. One of the most versatile props there is. A chair can support you periodically during practice, or serve as your base for the entire class. It’s especially helpful if you’re dealing with reduced mobility, significant fatigue, a concern about falling, or if you use a wheelchair — or if you’re simply curious about trying yoga with more support underneath you. A sturdy, non-slip chair is what you want; if you’re using a wheelchair, lock the brakes and adjust footrests as needed.
Blanket. A yoga blanket folds into whatever shape you need — extra cushioning under the knees, hips, neck, or shoulders, or a way to keep one side of the body in balance with the other if your flexibility isn’t even on both sides. Any substantial household blanket works; a towel is usually too thin to do the job.
Bolster. A firm, supportive cushion used mainly in restorative poses, so your body can fully release into a shape rather than working to hold it. This is where deep rest actually happens.
Strap. A strap connects one part of the body to another — extending your reach, improving alignment, or helping you settle more fully into a stretch or a restorative pose.
Eye pillow. Darkness helps the body rest. In any resting pose, a soft weight over the eyes helps the eye muscles fully let go and can quiet a busy mind.
Household Alternatives
You don’t need a fully stocked yoga closet to start. Here’s what works at home:
| Prop | Household alternative |
|---|---|
| Yoga mat | Any non-slip surface |
| Yoga blocks (4 recommended) | Firm books, stacked and taped |
| Blanket | Any firm home blanket |
| Bolster | Thick bed quilt, rolled blankets, or a couch cushion |
| Strap | Belt, scarf, or exercise band |
| Chair or stool | Any sturdy dining chair |
| Eye pillow | Folded face cloth |
Over time, investing in a set of foam blocks and a strap will make a meaningful difference in your practice. They’re inexpensive, widely available online, and will outlast almost any DIY substitute.
One more practical note: if you’re practicing in a shared studio space, bring your own towel to lay over communal props. It’s a small habit, and a considerate one — especially for anyone whose immune system is more vulnerable during treatment.
Think of Props Like a Seatbelt
They’re there every time — not because something is going to go wrong, but because supporting your body well is simply part of practicing wisely. You don’t wait until you need a seatbelt to put it on. Props work the same way.
Safety first. Always.