Yoga is an ancient Indian system of exercises, breathing and meditation that has been practiced for thousands of years. spiritual practice has now become one of the most popular forms of exercise worldwide with millions of people taking up yoga as their preferred fitness routine every day . The benefits of yoga are numerous – it helps increase flexibility , balance , strength , focus while also aiding in stress relief , pain management , weight loss among other health issues . Yoga was once limited to only Asian countries but today its being taught at schools , colleges , universities across different parts of the globe . In order to participate effectively in this form of exercise you will need some basic equipment such as mats , blankets , blocks , straps , balls , chairs , towels etc . Out of all these items , purchasing a high quality mat should be your top priority since it provides support during various poses and ensures safety from slipping or falling off balance . Rubber mats are commonly used due to their durability whereas latex ones offer more comfort when using them indoors . If planning on doing outdoor sessions then opting for waterproof mats would prove beneficial . Blankets come handy especially during cold weather conditions by providing warmth without sacrificing mobility during practice . Blocks serve as props assisting individuals who struggle with certain postures ; they come in diverse shapes & sizes made either from wood , plastic or foam materials . Straps aid in holding limbs securely into position during challenging positions like headstands or shoulder stands . Balls help build core muscles while seated on them during specific stretches . Chairs provide comfortable sitting options while performing floor based routines instead of having to lie down directly onto hard surfaces which could cause discomfort over time . Towel usage after workouts allows quick drying of sweat soaked skin areas without causing irritation or rashes . You can find all necessary accessories online or visit local stores offering sports goods . With proper use of these tools along with regular practice under guidance from certified instructors; anyone can experience significant improvements both physically & mentally through yogic practices!