Beginner's Guide to Restorative Yoga: Props You Actually Need

Quick answer

For restorative yoga at home, you really only need two props to start: a firm bolster and a pair of yoga blocks. The bolster supports your spine and allows passive holds, while blocks lift the ground to you and keep your alignment safe. Skip the extras until you've built a consistent practice.

Restorative yoga is about finding stillness—holding gentle poses for several minutes so your nervous system can shift into rest mode. Unlike a flow class, you don't move through postures quickly; you settle into them with the help of props. That's why choosing the right props, not an abundance of them, is the smartest approach for a beginner.

If you're setting up a restorative practice at home, the equipment list can feel overwhelming. Blankets, straps, bolsters, blocks, eye pillows—where do you start? Based on how these props actually get used in restorative sequences, two items stand out as the true essentials: a bolster pillow and a set of yoga blocks. They work together to create stability, length, and ease in every pose.

Why Restorative Yoga Needs Specific Props

Restorative yoga is different from yin or gentle flow because the poses are held longer—often 5 to 20 minutes—with the goal of complete muscular release. Your body needs firm, consistent support so you don't have to actively engage muscles to stay in position. That's where props earn their keep. A prop that feels okay for a 30-second hold can become uncomfortable after five minutes.

The two most commonly used props in restorative classes are bolsters and blocks. Straps and blankets come next, but they serve supplementary roles: straps extend reach, blankets soften hard surfaces. Bolsters and blocks, however, directly determine how well you can relax in poses like Supported Child's Pose, Supta Baddha Konasana, and Legs-Up-The-Wall. Choosing them wisely makes the difference between a restorative session that resets you and one that leaves you fidgeting.

What to Look for in a Yoga Bolster for Restorative Practice

A yoga bolster for restorative practice should be firm enough to hold its shape under your full body weight, but not so hard that it feels like a log. The most common shape for restorative work is rectangular because it provides a flat, stable platform for your spine, back, or legs. The Sol Living Bolster Pillow for Yoga & Meditation is a rectangular cotton bolster measuring 28" x 12" x 8". Its dimensions make it easy to position under your knees, along your spine, or under your head and neck.

Because this bolster is made from durable cotton and is handcrafted, it stays resilient and holds its shape practice after practice—important for restorative use where you're lying on it for extended periods. A bolster that flattens out won't give you the consistent support you need to truly let go. If you're a beginner, a rectangular bolster gives you more surface area to work with than a round one, which can roll and feel unstable.

• Test firmness by pressing your hand into the bolster; it should feel dense but give slightly. A bolster that's too soft will compress and leave you unsupported.

How to Choose Yoga Blocks for Restorative Support

In restorative yoga, blocks do more than assist alignment—they literally bring the floor closer to you. When you're in a forward fold with your head on a block, or you place a block under your sacrum in a supported bridge, you want blocks that are stable and don't skid. The Sol Living Yoga Blocks (2 Pack) are made from high-density EVA foam and are latex-free. Each block offers firm, non-slip stability, which is exactly what you need for holding poses without worry.

High-density foam blocks are the standard for restorative yoga because they provide enough firmness to support your weight without collapsing, yet they have a slight cushioning that feels comfortable against your body. The two blocks can be used at different heights (low, medium, high) depending on the pose and your flexibility. For a beginner, the ability to adjust block height is invaluable—it lets you find the right amount of support as your body changes day to day.

• If you have sensitive knees or joints, foam blocks are a better choice than cork or wood because they offer a softer landing surface.

Setting Up Your Restorative Yoga at Home

Once you have your bolster and blocks, you can practice a wide range of restorative poses without additional gear. For example, in Supported Child's Pose, place the bolster lengthwise between your legs and drape your torso over it, resting your forehead. For a supported twist, sit sideways on a block with your legs folded to one side. These props are the bedrock of restorative yoga at home.

If you find you want more cushioning for your heels or under your knees, you can always add a blanket or towel—something you likely already own. The beauty of focusing on just these two props is that you can start your practice right away without chasing a long shopping list. As you become more experienced, you might add a strap for reclined stretches or an eye pillow for savasana, but they are not necessities for day one.

Decision rules for choosing restorative yoga props

• Bolster shape: rectangular vs. round: Rectangular bolsters provide a flat, stable platform ideal for supporting the spine and back. Round bolsters roll and are better for under the knees or behind the neck. For a beginner, start with rectangular. Choose rectangular for versatility and stability in most restorative poses.
• Bolster firmness check: Press your hand into the bolster; it should feel dense but yield a little. If it's too soft, you'll sink through it; if too hard, it will feel uncomfortable after a few minutes. Firm but not rock-hard is the sweet spot for restorative support.
• Block material: foam vs. cork: Foam blocks are lighter, softer, and quieter—better for restorative where you might rest your head or back on them. Cork blocks are more durable but harder and can be slippery when wet. High-density foam is the safest choice for comfort and stability in restorative yoga.

Props we recommend for your restorative yoga kit

• Bolster Pillow for Yoga & Meditation - Rectangular Cotton, 28" x 12" x 8": This rectangular bolster measures 28" x 12" x 8", is hand-crafted from premium durable cotton, and holds its shape practice after practice. The rectangular shape gives you a wide, stable surface to support your back, hips, or head for long holds. The firm cotton filling won't compress unevenly, so you can fully relax without sinking into discomfort.
• Yoga Blocks (2 Pack) — Latex-Free High-Density Foam Blocks: These blocks are made from high-density EVA foam, offer firm non-slip stability, and come as a set of two. Two blocks let you experiment with different heights and placements in poses like supported bridge or reclined bound angle. Their non-slip foam stays put on your mat, giving you confidence to hold still and breathe.

Is this prop guide right for you?

Best for

• Complete beginners who want to start restorative yoga at home with minimal gear
• People looking for deep relaxation and stress relief through supported, long-held poses
• Yogis transitioning from active practice to a slower, more meditative style

Not ideal for

• Experienced practitioners who already own a full range of props and need advanced setup tips
• Those seeking a dynamic, flow-based class where props are rarely used
• Athletes looking for intense stretching or active recovery (they may need straps and a mat instead)

Restorative yoga doesn't demand a closet full of gear. With a firm rectangular bolster and a pair of high-density foam blocks, you can create a supportive, calming practice at home that lets you truly let go. Start with these two props, explore the poses, and add extras only when you feel limited. Your body—and your mind—will thank you.