Ways to Enhance Your Yoga Practice
Once you have the basics down, it’s time to enhance your yoga practice with a few tools recommended by Desire Co. Pro Shahada Karim. As a Movement Therapy Guide and Yoga Teacher, Shahada knows a thing or two about getting the most out of a yoga session. She loves incorporating items such as a sleep mask or a heating pad because they can help provide another level of comfort to her practice.
We compiled a list of the top four products Shahada recommends everyone to try using in their next yoga session whether they are looking for a more relaxed experience or want a little help with their poses. Plus, you can learn from Shahada herself how to use each of these products by clicking the links.
Out of Sight, Out of Mind
For those moments when you want to shut the world out, the Lunya Silk Sleep Mask will help you find total darkness wherever you are. This mask is made from naturally moisturizing silk and doubles as a headband for your nightly beauty routine. Shahada loves this sleep mask because it's not heavy and is comfortable enough to wear even when she's not sleeping. The design also means that it covers her upper face completely so that no light gets in. Shahada recommends using this mask at the end of your practice during your cool-down period. Learn more about how Shahada uses the Lunya Silk Sleep Mask here.
Relieve Sore Muscles With Heat
The UTK Heating Pad is a product that Shahada swears by because she uses it every night. The heat settings are easily adjustable and it's perfect for soothing back pain. Not only does this tool provide comfort through heat but it's also made using jade and tourmaline. These heated stones release negative ions which help improve your mood, alertness, and anxiety. Shahada recommends incorporating a heating pad at the end of your yoga practice during Shavasana and with any poses that require you to lie on your back such as the happy baby pose. Learn more tips for incorporating a heating pad into your practice here.
The Back Stretch You’ve Always Wanted
If you ever feel like you fall out of poses easily or struggle with flexibility, a yoga wheel is a perfect tool to help you improve. Shahada's go-to is the Yoga Design Lab Yoga Wheel. Because of its shape, the more you practice with the Yoga Design Lab Wheel, the deeper your stretches will be allowing you to really enhance your poses and achieve smoother backends. This tool is a must-have for beginners and even for recovery because it allows you to work your muscles at your pace. It can be used for backbends, chest openers, hip stretches, and more. Learn more about how Shahada uses the Yoga Design Lab Wheel to relieve back pain here.
Bonus: Gain Confidence In Your Stance
Sometimes your yoga mat isn't as non-slip as you hoped for, but before you try to find another (and probably more expensive) version that promises better grip, try the Muezna Non-Slip Yoga Socks. Shahada loves these socks because they grip the entire bottom of her foot and help her maintain a good grip on any slippery surface. It's a great way to stay steady and safe as you move through your practice. Plus, they're super affordable and come in packs of three so you'll never be without a pair. Shahada recommends the Muezna Non-Slip Yoga Socks to beginners and anyone who has trouble with balance.