Yoga blocks are fantastic tools for support, alignment, and deepening stretches—but what if you don’t have access to traditional yoga blocks? Whether you’re practicing at home on a budget or looking for eco-friendly solutions, there are several creative alternatives you can use to make your own DIY yoga blocks. In this article, we’ll explore why yoga blocks are helpful and how to craft safe, functional substitutes with items you likely already have around the house.
Why Use Yoga Blocks?
Before diving into alternatives, let’s briefly look at the role of yoga blocks in your practice. Yoga blocks:
- Provide support and stability in balancing poses
- Help improve flexibility in forward folds and backbends
- Allow better alignment and muscle engagement
- Make poses more accessible for beginners or people with limited mobility
Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced yogi, blocks help tailor the practice to your body’s needs.
Qualities of a Good Yoga Block Substitute
When creating or choosing an alternative yoga block, consider the following:
- Stability: It must support your weight without tipping over or collapsing.
- Firmness: Too soft and it won’t provide the necessary support; too hard and it may be uncomfortable.
- Size: A typical block is about 9″ x 6″ x 4″, so aim for something close to these dimensions.
- Safety: Edges should be smooth, and the object should not be slippery.
DIY Yoga Block Alternatives You Can Make at Home
1. Stacked Books Wrapped in a Towel
One of the most popular and easy substitutions. Choose hardcover books of similar size and thickness.
How to do it:
- Stack 2–3 thick books.
- Wrap them tightly in a towel or yoga mat.
- Secure with rubber bands, yoga straps, or duct tape to prevent slipping.
Best for: Seated poses, gentle support in forward folds, restorative yoga.
2. Firm Shoe Boxes Filled with Items
A sturdy shoe box, especially one made of thick cardboard or plastic, can mimic the firmness of a yoga block.
How to do it:
- Fill the box with books, towels, or any heavy material to increase stability.
- Tape it shut and reinforce corners.
Best for: Seated support, backbend props, or side stretches.
3. Cork or Wooden Bricks (For DIYers)
If you’re handy with tools, you can make your own reusable block using cork sheets or wood.
How to do it:
- Cut wood (like pine) or cork to the standard block size.
- Sand the edges and corners smooth.
- Optionally wrap in cloth or foam padding for comfort.
Best for: Long-term use, all types of poses.
4. Tupperware Containers or Storage Boxes
Look for rectangular containers that are strong enough to hold your body weight without denting.
How to do it:
- Choose sturdy, uncracked plastic containers.
- Fill with rice, beans, or dry grains to add weight.
- Tape the lid shut securely.
Best for: Restorative postures, gentle seated poses, or as foot support.
5. Yoga Mat Rolled Up Tightly
If you don’t have a second block, try rolling up your mat or a towel into a dense, firm roll.
How to do it:
- Roll it tightly from the short end.
- Use a strap or string to hold the roll firmly.
- Use two mats for extra height.
Best for: Chest openers, spine support, or under-the-knees support in reclined poses.
Safety Tips When Using DIY Yoga Blocks
- Always test your substitute before using it in weight-bearing poses.
- Avoid any material that can shift, slide, or collapse under pressure.
- If a pose doesn’t feel secure, modify or skip it.
- Use non-slip surfaces like rugs or yoga mats underneath your DIY block.
Final Thoughts
Not having a yoga block doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a supported and mindful practice. With a little creativity and common household items, you can make effective DIY yoga blocks that support your practice and keep you safe. Whether it’s a stack of books or a custom-cut wood block, these alternatives allow you to stay consistent with your yoga, anytime and anywhere.
Embrace the spirit of yoga—resourceful, adaptable, and present—and let your practice evolve, block or no block.