If you were to bring just one prop with you to yoga class, let it be a blanket! (Bonus: it's easy to carry.)

My folded blanket never comes off of my mat, as it provides just enough cushion for the knees and a helpful guide as to where to place my limbs. I also think it gives the mind and nervous system a gentle assurance of support.

When I was younger, I had the mindset that I could eventually toughen up my bony knees by continued practice on hard surfaces. Spoiler alert: It didn't work; it just made my knees more sensitive.

Other benefits of having a blanket with you during practice:

• Sit on the folded blanket to help you comfortably lengthen your spine and bring healthy circulation to the legs.

• Fold it up as a prop behind the heart, sacrum, or spine for restorative postures.

• Roll it up and place it underneath your knees for hamstring stretches and forward folds.

• Place it underneath your head in reclined postures if your neck feels strained on flat surfaces.

• Cover yourself up during shavasana (ahhhhh).

Yoga blankets are so easy to find these days (they usually cost around $20), but you can also use any blanket from your home.

I look forward to hearing how this supports your practice!