How Using Yoga Props Taught Me a Lesson About Grace

I used to think of yoga props as a crutch—something you used only if you couldn’t do a pose "correctly." But recently, my yoga instructor encouraged me to use props where they felt useful, and I took that advice to heart.

That day, I grabbed a chair to help with balance in Tree pose and transitioning into Warrior 3. I used a strap for Dancer pose, giving myself the support I needed to deepen into the stretch without straining. And you know what? Instead of making me feel weak, these props allowed me to move with more stability and confidence. I could focus on the practice itself rather than worrying about whether I would wobble or fall.

The Power of Support

This experience reminded me of something deeper—how often do we resist support in other areas of life? Whether it’s parenting, faith, mental health, or just the daily grind, we sometimes believe we should be able to do everything on our own. We think needing help means we’re not strong enough.

But that’s not true. Support isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a tool for growth.

• Just like a chair in yoga can help with balance, leaning on friends and family can help steady us in tough seasons.

• Just as a strap extends our reach in a pose, grace extends our ability to move forward when we feel stuck.

• And just as a block brings the floor closer, faith bridges the gap between our struggles and God’s strength.

Embracing Grace in the Process

There’s no shame in using what helps you. There’s no need to force yourself into something you’re not ready for. In yoga, in life, and in faith, it’s okay to accept support—from God, from others, and from yourself.

So the next time I step onto my mat (or into my day), I’m going to remember this: The goal isn’t to push through alone. The goal is to grow with grace.

What’s an area of your life where you’ve been resisting support? Maybe today is the day to allow yourself a little help.