Gear
Yoga bolsters and blankets: what they do and what to use instead
A yoga bolster is a firm, long cushion that supports the body in restful poses, such as lying back over it in Reclined Butterfly or folding onto it in Supported Child's Pose. A yoga blanket is a folded layer for padding knees, raising the hips or keeping warm. Firm pillows and folded towels work at home.
Bolsters and blankets are the props of rest. Where a block lifts the floor for an active pose, a bolster holds the body so it can let go, and a folded blanket fills the small gaps that make a pose uncomfortable. They are central to restorative-style practice, and useful in almost any class.
What does a yoga bolster do?
A bolster supports the body along its length. In Reclined Butterfly, you lie back on a bolster placed lengthways under the spine, so the chest opens gently and nothing has to hold on. In Supported Child’s Pose, the bolster goes between the knees and you fold forward onto it, resting the chest and one cheek. Under the knees in Savasana, it takes some of the arch out of the lower back.
What does a yoga blanket do?
A folded blanket raises, pads and warms. Sit on one in a cross-legged seat so the hips sit above the knees. Fold one under the knees in kneeling poses. Roll one into a small support for the neck or ankles. And spread one over the body in a long rest, since many people feel cooler once they lie still.
What can you use instead at home?
You do not need special props to start:
- Instead of a bolster: two firm bed pillows stacked, a sofa cushion with a folded blanket on top, or a rolled-up comforter tied with a belt.
- Instead of a yoga blanket: a folded bath towel, a cotton throw, or a thick, folded malong.
- For height under the knees or thighs: cushions, rolled towels or yoga blocks.
Whatever you use should stay firm and not slide on the floor. Legs Up the Wall with a folded blanket under the hips is a good first pose to try with household props.
Which yoga bolsters are sold in the Philippines?
The bolsters below are listed by Decathlon Philippines and Certified Calm. Details are as each store states them. YogaPhilippines.com has not handled these products, and the links are plain store links.
| Bolster | Store | Details (as stated) | Price as of October 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kimjaly Yoga Bolster, Grey | Decathlon | 60 cm long, 25 cm diameter; polyester filling; removable cotton cover, hand wash | PHP 1,090 |
| Kimjaly Yoga Bolster, Mahogany | Decathlon | Same specs as the grey | PHP 1,590 |
| Kimjaly Flat Yoga Bolster Cushion | Decathlon | 60 x 30 x 15 cm; cotton cover | PHP 1,790 |
| Manduka Lean Yoga Bolster | Certified Calm | Out of stock when checked | PHP 4,350 |
| Manduka Rectangular Yoga Bolster | Certified Calm | Out of stock when checked | PHP 7,250 |
The grey Kimjaly bolster was marked down from PHP 1,890 when the page was loaded, so the price may go back up. The flat bolster’s page describes its filling in two different ways, so check with Decathlon if the filling matters to you. Certified Calm also lists a Manduka Round Yoga Bolster at PHP 7,250 as of October 2026, also out of stock when checked.
No yoga-specific blanket could be verified at these stores, so a household blanket is the practical choice for now.
Are bolsters and blankets safe to use?
For most people, yes. Come out of any supported pose that causes pinching, numbness or pain, and adjust the height before trying again. If lying flat is uncomfortable, raise the head end of the bolster with a block. For mats and other gear, see the best yoga mats in the Philippines, or yoga ball sizes and safe use if you would like a larger prop to lean back over.
Questions
Is a round or a flat bolster better?
A round bolster is taller and suits lying back over it or resting the chest on it. A flat or rectangular bolster is lower and steadier, and many people find it easier to sit on or to use under the knees. If you only buy one, a rectangular shape is the more versatile of the two.
How firm should a yoga bolster be?
Firm enough that it keeps its shape when you lie on it. A bolster that flattens under your back gives little support. Sofa cushions are often too soft on their own, which is why stacking them with a folded blanket helps.
What size blanket works best for yoga?
A medium cotton or wool-blend blanket that folds into a firm rectangle, roughly the width of your mat, is the most useful. Very fluffy throws are comfortable to lie under but collapse when you sit on them.