What is a bolster?

A bolster is a firm, elongated pillow, usually 60 by 20 centimeters. Other sizes include 66 or 38 centimeters long. The bolster is generally filled with buckwheat husks, although alternative fillings such as cotton or the flame-retardant Recron fiber are also available. This filling can be found in a number of bolsters from the innovative brand Yoga-Mad.

What do you use a bolster for?

A bolster supports your body and protects your muscles from overextension. Place one under your neck, lower back, or legs, for example. Supporting your body in the right places allows you to perform your yoga exercises more effectively and relax more effectively. If you teach yourself, you know that every body is different. Therefore, always ensure there are enough bolsters in your studio so everyone can practice their exercises responsibly.

What is the difference between a yoga bolster and a pillow?

A yoga bolster is indeed also called a yoga cushion. But don't confuse a bolster with a meditation cushion; that has a completely different shape and is only intended for sitting. Such a meditation cushion is also usually much higher. Therefore, you cannot use a meditation cushion as a bolster. The reverse is possible, however. You can simply sit on a bolster.

What's better: a cylindrical or rectangular bolster?

Whether you prefer a rectangular or cylindrical bolster depends on your preference. In principle, you can use a cylindrical bolster for anything. A rectangular bolster is slightly more stable and is often used to place under the entire length of the back during chest-opening exercises.

What should I pay attention to when buying a yoga bolster?

A bolster has an inner and outer cover. The filling is in the inner cover. If the inner cover has a zipper, you can refill the bolster if it has become loose after years of use. You can also remove the filling if it's too firm. A zipper in the outer cover isn't optional, of course. You'll need this zipper if you want to wash the outer cover. Some manufacturers indicate that the cover is machine washable, but hand washing is always better if you want to keep it looking its best.

Yoga bolster exercises

The bolster is often used in pregnancy yoga, but physiotherapists also use it to perform exercises with clients. For abdominal exercises, place it under your lower back for support. This is especially important for weak abdominal muscles. The bolster is also ideal for savasana, the deep relaxation at the end of a yoga class. Place the bolster under your knees. This allows you to optimally relax your leg muscles without straining your lower back.

Which brands of bolsters do we have?

Of course, the quality of all the bolsters we offer is excellent, but aesthetics are also important. That's why all our bolsters have a unique appearance. Which one you choose depends entirely on your taste.

At the Yoga-Pilatesshop you will find bolsters from the following brands:

• Yogi & YoginiAre you an Ibiza-style yogini who walks onto the beach at dawn for sadhana? Then Yoga & Yogini Your brand. Here you'll find all the trendy, bohemian designs. For example, take a look at these rainbow bolsterThis yoga prop will perfectly match your outfit and your super-relaxed vibe.
• Flowee. Flowee bolsters have a cheerful print and a zipper in the inner and outer cover. Here you will also find a small variant 38 centimeters long.
• SamaraliThe bolsters of Samarali are made from environmentally friendly and natural materials with minimal impact on Mother Nature with Asian designs.
• Yoga-MadThis is an innovative brand in terms of functional design and applied technology. This Yoga-Mad bolsters combines organic cotton with a flame-retardant fiber for the filling.