If you're looking to optimize your home practice, the best yoga bolsters are firm enough to provide support in difficult poses and comfort in restorative ones. First and foremost, while soft, fluffy pillows might seem comfortable at first, they won't provide the alignment and support that's imperative for a safe yoga practice. You'll want something that's denser.
Next, consider the shape. The best bolster shape for your practice will largely depend on how you intend to use it:
Rectangular bolsters: Since they're flat and wide, these bolsters are intended for full back support. This is especially useful during restorative poses in which the bolster is doing most (if not all) of the work.
Round bolsters: When positioned vertically along your back, round bolsters are great for deep, intense spine stretches. They can also be placed under the legs to lift them during savasana (or corpse pose), which could help you relax more easily.
Pranayama bolsters: These pillows are long and squat, providing only a few inches of height. As a result, they're intended to help with breathing exercises rather than actual poses, but they can offer a subtle spine stretch or opening of the chest.
While almost all bolsters fit into one of these three categories, some of them do have a bit of overlap (like the hybrid option listed below). No matter which shape you're looking for, these four yoga props are dense, supportive, well-made, and highly reviewed.
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