Do you know a difference between a yoga brick and a yoga block? People get them often mixed up, but they each serve their own specific purpose.
A block is usually made of foam, and is used to sit on, or to support your head during supine poses, or to put together to form a platform for a shoulderstand, for instance. A block is not very useful on its side as it’s a bit unstable when tipped. Its best function is to lie flat on the floor, or to be stacked into a chimney, if more support is needed.
A brick, on the other hand, can be made of foam and also of wood. It is designed to help in poses where reaching the floor becomes an issue, for instance in triangle, parsvakonasana, half-moon pose and other standing poses requiring good hip-flexion and hamstring flexibility. It can also be used a sturdy support for your back during the bridge pose. A brick can be tipped and tilted, and will provide more stability than a block due to its more compact dimensions.
Some bricks are too soft and light and not very suitable for supporting a grown-up’s weight. These ones below are reliable and solid. They will last you forever.
| This one is called a block, even though it’s a brick! My all-time favourite — super-sturdy and light at the same time. Can’t really think of a better one. I bought them for my classes and use them all the time. | |
| This is a good quality yoga block, also nice and light and firm at the same time. | |
| This one is quite dense and a bit heavier, great for providing proper support for shoulderstands as it’s very sturdy. It looks a bit like insulation material, because it’s completely recycled and environmentally friendly. | |
| A half-block is ideal for supporting your head while you lie supine, especially if you suffer from tight shoulders and neck. It provides just enough elevation without raising the head too high. Often used in Pilates. |