Yoga shop: what you need for home practice, and what to look for
You need very little to practise yoga: a good mat and a couple of simple props go a long way. This page lists what is worth buying, what to look for in each, and products we recommend. Some links are affiliate links, which help keep our guides free.
- Start with
- A non-slip mat
- Then add
- Blocks and a strap
- Our picks
- Chosen for value and comfort
- Links
- Some are affiliate links
Disclosure: some links on this page are affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It does not change what we recommend. Read our affiliate disclosure.
Partner stores
Online stores we link to for health and wellness shopping. Prices, stock, delivery and returns are handled by the store.
Amazon India
A wide choice of yoga mats, blocks, straps, bolsters, clothing and books, with reviews and easy returns. Use our buying guides below to choose well.
Visit AmazonKrishna's Herbal & Ayurveda
Herbal juices, Ayurvedic formulations and wellness products. Check ingredients, and ask your doctor before using herbal products if you are pregnant, take regular medicines or have a health condition.
Visit storeZandu Care (Emami)
Ayurvedic health and wellness products from the Zandu brand, sold online. Read labels carefully, and check with your doctor before using herbal products if you are pregnant, take regular medicines or have a health condition.
Visit storeTruemeds
An online pharmacy for prescribed medicines, delivered across India, which may suggest lower-cost substitutes with the same salts. Buy medicines only as prescribed, and check any substitute with your doctor.
Visit storeKerala Ayurveda
An Ayurvedic wellness brand founded in Kerala in 1945, with herbal products and wellness programmes. New users can use code CNNEW10 for 10% off orders of ₹500 or more (one-time use). Check with your doctor before using herbal products if you have a health condition.
Visit storeKapiva
Ayurveda-inspired foods and wellness products, including ghee, honey, teas, juices and oils. Check labels for sugar and ingredients, and ask your doctor about herbal juices if you have diabetes or take regular medicines.
Visit storeGharsoaps
An online skincare brand selling soaps and related skincare products. Patch-test new products on a small area of skin first, and see a dermatologist for persistent acne or skin problems.
Visit storeYoga mats
The one thing worth spending on. A good mat stops slipping, cushions the knees and lasts for years.
4 to 6 mm for most people
Thinner mats (3 to 4 mm) are steadier for standing poses and travel. Thicker mats (6 to 8 mm) are kinder to knees and good for gentle or floor-based practice.
Non-slip on both sides
Sweaty hands slip on cheap foam mats. Natural rubber and good PU-rubber mats grip best, especially in humid weather.
PVC, TPE, rubber or cotton
PVC and TPE are affordable and light; natural rubber grips well but is heavier and can smell at first; cotton durries suit gentle practice and meditation.
At least 183 cm long
Taller people should look for 190 cm or more, so the head and feet stay on the mat in Shavasana.
Our recommended mats are being added.
Blocks and straps
Props make poses easier and safer, especially for stiff beginners and older students.
Foam or cork, buy two
Foam blocks are light and cheap; cork is firmer and steadier. They bring the floor closer in forward bends and support you in balance poses.
Cotton, 2 to 2.5 m long
Helps you reach your feet in seated bends and stretch the shoulders. A strap with a D-ring buckle is easiest to adjust.
Our recommended props are being added.
Bolsters and meditation cushions
For restorative yoga, Yoga Nidra and sitting comfortably for breathing and meditation.
Firm, with a washable cover
Supports the back and knees in restful poses. Cotton-filled bolsters hold their shape well.
Raise the hips above the knees
A firm round or crescent cushion (zafu) helps you sit upright without back strain.
Our recommended cushions and bolsters are being added.
Clothing
Anything you can move in works. For regular practice, look for breathable, stretchy fabric that stays in place when you bend or turn upside down, and avoid loose tops that fall over your face.
Our clothing picks are being added.
Books
Good books deepen your understanding beyond poses: translations of the Yoga Sutras and Bhagavad Gita, classic posture guides and accessible introductions to breathing and meditation. Read our free what is yoga guide to start.
Our book recommendations are being added.
How we choose products
- Useful for real home practice, not gadgets you will not use.
- Good value at Indian prices, and easy to buy and return.
- Comfortable and safe: good grip, sensible materials.
- We only list products we would suggest to our own students and readers, whether or not we earn a commission.
Do not want to buy anything yet? See our list of household items that work as props.
Yoga shop: common questions
What do I need to start yoga at home?
A non-slip mat is enough to start. Two blocks and a strap make many poses easier. A cushion and a blanket help with sitting and relaxation.
What thickness of yoga mat is best?
4 to 6 mm suits most people. Choose thicker for sensitive knees and gentle practice, thinner for standing poses and travel.
Do you sell these products yourself?
No. Links take you to the seller's website, where you buy directly. Some are affiliate links. See our affiliate disclosure.
Do I pay more if I buy through your link?
No. The price is the same. The seller may pay us a small commission.
Last updated 24 October 2026.