The Best Yoga Bolsters

Gaiam Rectangular Meditation Pillow

Padded to Perfection

Gaiam's Yoga Bolster makes meditation and ground stretches so much more accessible and enjoyable.

Best Overall

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If you’ve been out of practice for quite some time or are new to the activity completely, Gaiam’s rectangular bolster will help you ease into more complex poses over time. We’re a big fan of this meditation pillow because of its ability to support pressure points in direct contact with the ground. If, for example, your shins, back, or tailbone have been irritated by past injuries, this pillow can help give you a complete stretch that’s pain-free. You can comfortably ease into positions such as forward fold, reclined twists, or child’s pose without aggravating those ancient injuries by using this bolster. While it may look like a plush pillow, looks are deceiving; this five-pounder is sturdy and won’t flatten to a pancake over time.

Pros:

• The microfiber exterior is velvety soft
• The stitched handle is discreet and practical
• Machine-washable cover

Cons:

• Not hard enough for highly advanced poses

Gayo Rectangle Yoga Bolster

A Set for the Studio

If you find yourself stretching on far-flung floors more often than not, Gayo's Bolster Set will have you road-ready in no time.

Best Accessories

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Gayo’s Rectangle Yoga Bolster is another formidable exercise tool that will aid in your balance and stability throughout your yogi training. Whether you’re meditating or stretching, this bolster will impress not only because of its compact, dense design, but also because of its grab bag of extra goodies. The Gayo bolster can be easily transported via the recessed handle and stylish traveling bag, and you’ll always have a fresh surface thanks to the spare cover that’s included with your purchase.

This package is a great gift for family and friends that frequent yoga studios, but it would also make for a great treat for yourself when you’re stocking up your home gym. Whatever your intentions, this reliable rectangle will decrease the pressure on your joints and tendons while providing a complete workout that’s hassle-free and low impact.

Pros:

• Shorter length for more versatility
• Moisture-wicking cover
• 100% organic cotton

Cons:

• The cover’s zipper can get stuck easily if you’re careless

Peace Yoga Meditation Bolster Pillow

Ohm My Gosh

Staying in the same position for extended periods can wreak havoc on the spine. Thankfully, finding your breath without aching is not only possible, but even luxurious with this bolster from Peace Yoga.

Most Versatile

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Finding inner tranquility has never been easier than with this meditation bolster pillow by Peace Yoga.  This particular bolster takes the form of a circular cylinder and can be purchased in either a thirteen- or sixteen-inch diameter depending on your behind’s needs. While we can’t understate the benefits of supporting your pelvic area and back during meditation, unfortunately, this unit has few applications in the realm of yoga. That’s not to say you shouldn’t supplement your stretches with some deep, deliberate breaths and a clearing of the mind from time to time. In fact, using Peace Yoga’s pillow before and after sessions is an ideal way to help reduce stress and prepare yourself for the coming day.

Pros:

• Available in turquoise, purple, and black
• The buckwheat hull core resists compression masterfully
• A great seat for low tables as well

Cons:

• Not useful for yoga poses

Gaiam Yoga Block

Balance that Won't Buckle

If you find yourself advancing to more complex routines, pick accessories that can keep up with Gaiam's formidable yoga block.

Best Block

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If you need total support that won’t deform or buckle in the slightest, upgrade your reinforcements to this block from Gaiam. This bountiful bolster opens up the opportunity to move your muscles in a whole new direction and reach deeper than you ever thought possible. Yoga blocks can be strategically placed between muscle groups to facilitate adduction movement or the clenching and squeezing of muscles during poses. Also, utilizing multiple yoga blocks can be an incredible help when you’re doing stability work that requires prolonged contact between your knees, wrists, and the hard ground. Regardless of whether you’re just starting or have a load of core strength already, this block provides unmatched firmness and gives you a thorough stretch without the consequences of hyperextension.

Pros:

• Thirty styles and colors to choose from
• Air dry in hours without retaining odor
• Tapered edges for a more secure grip

Cons:

• The paint can easily be scratched or chipped on sharp objects

Syntus Yoga Set

Give Your Core a Hand

Syntus's Yoga Bolster and Strap Set will give you complete control over your workout and allow you to explore positions you never thought possible.

Best Set

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When you’re looking for the full yogi package, you can cross every stretching accessory off your wishlist with this yoga set from Syntus. The problem many yoga supplies tend to have is they rarely work as a standalone tool if you want to enhance most poses. Syntus has addressed this grievance in fantastic style by providing you with two block bolsters, one yoga strap, and four resistance bands. The nylon straps are rigid and useful for getting in deep hamstring stretches, while the resistance bands can enhance an array of lower body and back exercises. All in all, Syntus’s exercise options are invaluable when you’re aiming to prevent injury. Even better, these accessories allow you to take the yoga studio home with you.

Pros:

• Fantastic value for the price
• Carrying case and instruction manual included
• Bands vary from ten to forty pounds of weight resistance

Cons:

• Resistance bands made from latex can cause skin irritation

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular poses that require yoga bolsters?

Yoga bolsters are frequently used in variations of child’s pose, planks, and even the beginning stages of handstands. If you experience back pain, child’s pose can be irritating because of the lower back extension. Larger, thicker bolsters can raise your upper body and reduce pressure on the spine. When you’re doing planks and other stability exercises that require prolonged bony contact with the floor, you’ll instantly benefit from reduced joint pain thanks to the added cushion. Lastly, if you’re just mastering your inverted balance, squeezing a yoga bolster between your body and your non-dominant leg can provide an effective counterweight while you propel yourself towards the heavens.

What are the origins of yoga?

Yoga dates back to India to ancient history. While pottery that discovered possibly depicting a yoga pose suggests yoga’s origins predate the Vedic period, it is widely accepted that yoga began its acceleration as a widely practiced discipline about two millennia ago. The first written references to the practice can be attributed to a collection of Sanskirt aphorisms uncovered in the fourth century BC.