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The best yoga blocks of 2021 come in a variety of sizes, shapes and weights for every practice.

Image Credit: LIVESTRONG.com

I'll admit, when I first started practicing yoga 15 years ago, I thought I only needed a yoga mat to find my flow. And while that's technically true, it wasn't until I started using yoga props, mainly yoga blocks, that my practice really took off.

When I was new to yoga, I opted out of using props because, for one, I was already slightly flexible in some poses and two, I didn't want to look like I actually needed blocks to deepen my practice (hello, ego!).

However, when I desperately wanted to successfully do crow pose, I struggled to maintain my balance. I practiced yoga every day, and while the strength was there, I couldn't stay off the ground. It wasn't until my yoga instructor suggested I place my forehead on the edge of a block that I finally did "fly."

Fast forward to today and I still use blocks in my practice, whether I want to deepen my chest openers, explore pose variations or find stability when practicing inversions. I also (and frequently) recommend them to my fellow yogis.

Here are the best yoga blocks to fit every flow.

As both a student and instructor, I typically prefer Manduka over other brands that I've tried (and I've tried a lot!) mainly because of the high quality and durability of its products.

Made of 50 to 75 percent recycled post-industrial and post-consumer EVA foam, this Manduka yoga block is easily one of my favorite props to use during my sessions. (I've owned a set for seven years and it's still in great shape.)

What I especially like about this one is it's light enough to use in a variety of poses such as a supported bridge pose or pigeon pose, but sturdy enough to practice inversions. It's also comfortable as a seat during meditation.

Buy it: Manduka.com; Price: $18

I've taken many classes at different studios, and at almost every single studio, I've come across this classic block. Why? It's light enough to carry around, yet sturdy enough to provide great support when moving through challenging poses.

Buy it: Amazon.com; Price: $9.99

If you're new to yoga, I recommend starting with two blocks and this set of Trideer blocks is perfect to help you throughout your practice.

No matter the pose, these blocks are both supportive and soft, helping you comfortably ease into new movements.

Buy it: Amazon.com; Price: $10.99-$12.99

Made of sustainable cork, this product is my favorite for practicing yoga in warm (sweaty) environments. Its heavier weight and easy-to-grip texture makes it slip-resistant and provides more stability than the average block.

Buy it: Manduka.com; Price: $22

The Manduka Welcome Mini is 30 percent smaller than the average-sized block, but is still a great quality yoga accessory. And it's not only suitable for travel, it's ideal for it.

I can't neglect to mention the teal and purple colors are beautiful together.

Buy it: Amazon.com; Price: $18.95

Have you ever tried downward dog with each hand on a block? Then you know why it's nice to have two on deck.

I highly recommend using these two Gaiam Essentials blocks. The price point and quality are both great.

Buy it: Amazon.com; Price: $14.99-$20.69

Sure, blocks can get a little pricey, but this one proves that you don't have to spend a lot of money to get a quality product.

The Reehut block features durable high-density EVA foam that's both moisture-proof and slip-resistant. It can stand up to even everyday use.

Buy it: Amazon.com; Price: $5.94-$6.79

Just like blocks, straps can help you modify yoga poses to be more accessible to you.

Of course, you can purchase both props separately, but this combo set is the epitome of efficiency. The blocks are also super lightweight!

Buy it: Amazon.com; Price: $14.99-$18.99

Surprise, surprise yet another Manduka block. But this one's shape sets it apart.

Because of its curved structure, it's a great complement to restorative yoga sessions, especially when you use it to support your spine. I've used this one before during fish pose and almost forgot I had a block under my spine. It's that comfortable.

Buy it: Amazon.com; Price: $20.96

These cork wedge blocks also serve as another great eco-friendly option, but they stand out for their trapezoid-cut design. This shape offers a variety of benefits, including great inversion support and even weight distribution. Try them out when practicing backbends such as wheel pose. Don't worry each block clocks in at a sturdy 1.17 pounds.

This company also provides a 360-day customer satisfaction policy.

Buy it: Amazon.com; Price: $24.99

Square: The most common, this shape is best for bringing the floor closer to your hands and adding stability to a basic Hatha yoga poses.

Curved: Less versatile, but much more comfortable under the back, this design it ideal for supporting your spine during supine poses.

Wedge: This is the least common option, but if you're advanced in your practice and want support during inversion poses like sirsasana, this shape works great.

Foam: Lightweight and with a soft feel, this material is comfortable during yin or restorative yoga classes.

Cork: Because of its durability and easy-to-grip texture, this material is ideal for hot or sweaty practices.

With blocks, small variations in size and weight can mean big differences in your flow. Larger, heavier blocks are ideal for stability. Small, light ones are best for traveling and toting to yoga class.

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The 10 Best Yoga Blocks, According to a Yoga Instructor - Livestrong