A yoga bolster is a prop used in yoga practice to support various poses and provide added comfort during practice. Bolsters come in various shapes and sizes, and can be used for a wide range of poses, including seated postures, forward folds, and restorative poses.
In summary, using a yoga bolster can help enhance your yoga practice by providing added support, comfort, and accessibility. Incorporating bolsters into your practice can help you deepen your stretches, increase your flexibility, reduce stress, and promote relaxation.
What are the different types of yoga bolsters? There are several types of yoga bolsters available on the market, each with unique features that cater to specific needs. Some common types of yoga bolsters include:
- Rectangular Bolster: The most common type of yoga bolster, rectangular bolsters are versatile and can be used in a wide range of poses.
- Round Bolster: Round bolsters are typically larger than rectangular bolsters and are ideal for poses that require more support, such as restorative postures.
- Pranayama Bolster: Pranayama bolsters are smaller and thinner than rectangular bolsters, and are designed specifically to support breathing exercises.
- Travel Bolster: Designed to be lightweight and easy to carry, travel bolsters are perfect for yogis on-the-go.
What are the most well-known brands of yoga bolsters?
There are many brands that make yoga bolsters, but some of the most popular ones include:
- Manduka: Manduka is a well-known brand that makes high-quality yoga mats, props, and accessories. Their bolsters are known for being durable and long-lasting. Manduka Rectangular Bolster: This bolster is made with eco-friendly materials and features a durable, removable cover for easy cleaning. Available at Amazon.com.
- Hugger Mugger: Hugger Mugger is another popular brand that makes a variety of yoga props, including bolsters. Their bolsters come in different sizes and colors, and are made with eco-friendly materials. Hugger Mugger’s Standard Yoga Bolster is a popular choice among yogis. It’s made with organic cotton and features a sturdy handle for easy transport. Get yours at Amazon.com.
- YogaAccessories: YogaAccessories is a budget-friendly brand that makes a variety of yoga props, including bolsters. Their bolsters are high-quality and affordable. YogaAccessories’ Round Cotton Yoga Bolster is an affordable option that provides firm support and is made with 100% cotton. At Amazon.com
- Jade Yoga: Jade Yoga’s Harmony Yoga Bolster is made with eco-friendly materials and features a removable, washable cover. It also comes with a convenient carrying handle.
- Gaiam: Gaiam’s Restore Multi-Point Massage Roller is a versatile option that can be used as both a yoga prop and a massage roller. It features various pressure points to help relieve tension in the muscles. Get yours at Amazon.com
- Yoga Direct: Yoga Direct’s Rectangular Cotton Yoga Bolster is a durable option that provides firm support and features a removable cover for easy washing. It also has a convenient handle for easy transport. Available at Amazon.com.
How do I choose a bolster pillow?
f you don’t have a yoga bolster, there are several household items you can use as a substitute:
- Firm pillows: If you have firm pillows or cushions, they can be used in place of a yoga bolster. Stack them together to create a similar shape to a bolster.
- Rolled-up blankets: You can use rolled-up blankets or towels to create a makeshift bolster. Roll them tightly and secure them with a strap or piece of fabric.
- Couch cushions: Couch cushions or throw pillows can also be used as a substitute for a yoga bolster. Just make sure they’re firm enough to provide support in your poses.
- Yoga blocks: While they’re not quite the same as a yoga bolster, yoga blocks can be used to support certain poses, especially when placed under the hips or shoulders.
- A rolled-up yoga mat: In a pinch, you can roll up your yoga mat and use it as a makeshift bolster. Just make sure it’s rolled tightly and securely.
While these substitutes may not be as comfortable or versatile as a yoga bolster, they can still provide some support and help you deepen your practice.
How long do yoga bolsters last?
The lifespan of a yoga bolster can vary depending on several factors, including how often it’s used, how well it’s cared for, and the quality of the materials. With proper care, a high-quality yoga bolster can last for several years.
Here are some tips for extending the lifespan of your yoga bolster:
- Store it properly: Keep your yoga bolster in a dry, cool place when you’re not using it. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or in humid environments, as this can cause the material to degrade more quickly.
- Clean it regularly: Depending on how often you use your yoga bolster, it’s a good idea to clean it regularly. You can wipe it down with a damp cloth or use a gentle cleaner specifically designed for yoga props.
- Use it with care: While yoga bolsters are designed to provide support, they’re not indestructible. Avoid putting too much weight or pressure on your bolster, and be careful not to tear or puncture the material.
- Invest in quality: Higher-quality yoga bolsters are typically made with durable materials that can withstand regular use. While they may be more expensive upfront, they can save you money in the long run by lasting longer.
In general, if you notice any signs of wear and tear on your yoga bolster, such as fraying or flattening, it may be time to replace it. Additionally, if you notice any unpleasant odors or mold growth, it’s best to replace your bolster immediately to avoid any health risks.
Is it better to sleep with or without a bolster?
Whether or not to sleep with a bolster is a personal preference and can depend on a variety of factors, such as sleep position and body type.
In general, sleeping with a bolster can provide some benefits, such as:
- Spinal alignment: If you sleep on your side, a bolster can help keep your spine in alignment by filling the gap between your waist and the mattress.
- Comfort: A bolster can provide extra cushioning and support for your head, neck, and limbs, which can help you feel more comfortable and reduce pressure points.
- Reduced snoring: Elevating your head with a bolster can help reduce snoring by keeping your airway open and reducing congestion.
However, sleeping with a bolster may not be beneficial for everyone. For example, if you’re a stomach sleeper, a bolster may not be comfortable or supportive for your neck and spine. Additionally, if you have certain health conditions, such as sleep apnea or acid reflux, sleeping with a bolster may exacerbate your symptoms.
Ultimately, whether or not to sleep with a bolster comes down to your personal preference and needs. If you’re considering sleeping with a bolster, it’s a good idea to experiment with different positions and bolsters to find what works best for you.
What is the price range for yoga bolsters?
The price of a yoga bolster can vary depending on the brand, size, and type. Rectangular bolsters typically cost between $30 and $80, while round bolsters can cost between $60 and $120. Pranayama bolsters are generally less expensive and can cost between $20 and $50. Travel bolsters are usually the most affordable and can cost between $15 and $30.
What is the difference between yoga bolster pillow, round or rectangular?
The main difference between yoga bolster pillows and round or rectangular bolsters is their shape and size.
Yoga bolster pillows are typically smaller and more compact than traditional bolsters, and they’re designed to be used for specific purposes such as supporting the knees or ankles in seated poses. They’re also often used for restorative yoga poses that involve gentle stretching and relaxation.
Round and rectangular bolsters, on the other hand, are larger and more versatile props that can be used for a variety of poses and purposes. Rectangular bolsters are longer and narrower, and they’re often used to provide support for the back, legs, or torso in seated or reclined poses. Round bolsters are shorter and wider, and they’re often used for seated or reclined poses that require more support under the knees, hips, or back.
Another difference between the two types of bolsters is their firmness. Yoga bolster pillows are generally softer and more cushioned, while traditional round or rectangular bolsters are typically firmer and more supportive.
Ultimately, the choice between a yoga bolster pillow and a traditional round or rectangular bolster depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a prop to support specific parts of your body in restorative poses, a yoga bolster pillow may be the best option. If you’re looking for a versatile prop that can be used for a variety of poses and purposes, a round or rectangular bolster may be a better choice.
How to use Yoga Bolster?
Yoga bolsters are versatile props that can be used in a variety of ways to support your yoga practice. Here are some common ways to use a yoga bolster:
- Seated poses: Place the bolster underneath your sit bones to elevate your hips and make seated poses more comfortable. You can also use a bolster to support your back in seated twists or forward folds.
- Restorative poses: In restorative yoga, bolsters are often used to support the body in gentle, relaxing poses. You can use a bolster to support your back in a gentle backbend, or to prop up your legs in a relaxing reclined pose.
- Savasana: During savasana (final relaxation), place a bolster underneath your knees to elevate your legs and release tension in your lower back.
- Hip openers: Place a bolster underneath your hips to support your body in hip-opening poses like pigeon or supported bridge.
- Backbends: In backbending poses, place a bolster underneath your shoulder blades to support your upper back and chest.
- Child’s pose: Place a bolster underneath your chest and rest your forehead on it to deepen the stretch in your lower back and shoulders.
When using a yoga bolster, it’s important to listen to your body and make adjustments as needed to ensure that you’re comfortable and safe in each pose.
Are yoga bolsters worth it?
Yoga bolsters can be a valuable addition to your yoga practice, as they provide support and comfort in a variety of poses. Whether or not a yoga bolster is worth it for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Here are some reasons why yoga bolsters can be worth it:
- Comfort: Yoga bolsters can make poses more comfortable by providing support to the body. This can be especially helpful if you have tight or sore muscles, or if you’re working with an injury.
- Versatility: Yoga bolsters can be used in a variety of poses and practices, from restorative yoga to vinyasa flow. This makes them a versatile prop that can enhance your practice in many ways.
- Deeper stretching: By providing support, yoga bolsters can help you deepen stretches and hold poses for longer periods of time.
- Stress relief: Restorative poses that use a yoga bolster can be incredibly relaxing and can help reduce stress and anxiety.
- Injury prevention: By providing support and helping you maintain proper alignment, yoga bolsters can help prevent injuries in your practice.
However, yoga bolsters may not be necessary or useful for everyone. If you have a well-rounded yoga practice and don’t feel like you need additional support, a yoga bolster may not be worth the investment for you. Additionally, if you’re working with a tight budget, you may want to prioritize other yoga props before investing in a bolster. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not a yoga bolster is worth it for you comes down to your personal needs and preferences.
Yoga Bolster Benefits
Using a yoga bolster can provide a number of benefits for your yoga practice, including:
- Enhanced Support: Bolsters can provide added support during yoga poses, making it easier to achieve proper alignment and maintain poses for longer periods of time.
- Increased Comfort: Bolsters can make yoga poses more comfortable by reducing the strain on your muscles and joints, allowing you to relax into the pose and experience deeper stretches.
- Improved Flexibility: Using a bolster can help you gradually increase your flexibility over time by allowing you to hold poses for longer and go deeper into stretches.
- Reduced Stress: Restorative yoga poses that incorporate bolsters can help reduce stress and promote relaxation by calming the nervous system and releasing tension in the body.
- Greater Accessibility: Bolsters can make yoga poses more accessible for people of all levels and abilities by providing added support and stability, making it easier to modify poses and adjust for any physical limitations.
- Deeper Breathing: Bolsters can also be used to support breathing exercises, helping to increase lung capacity, reduce stress, and improve overall breathing patterns.
In conclusion, yoga bolsters are a versatile prop that can enhance your yoga practice by providing added support and comfort during poses. Whether you’re looking for a rectangular, round, pranayama, or travel bolster, there are many well-known brands to choose from at varying price points.

1 Email Every Friday
2 Simple & Healthy Recipes
One Article with Tips and Tricks to Boost your Well-being
100% FREE: One email per week, exclusive content, no ads, and, of course, you can unsubscribe anytime you want.