A Yoga Pillow Makes Your Flow *So* Much More Relaxing

Manduka's popular rectangular-shaped bolster is a top pick amongst yoga instructors. Not surprising, given the brand's solid rep and the bolster's uniquely soft microfiber cover and partially-recycled stuffing.

"It has enough support and holds its shape without being too bulky," says director of education for YogaSix Kelly Clifton Turner, RYT (registered yoga teacher). She likes to slide one under her knees to take the pressure off the lower back, and another longways beneath her spine, which opens up the chest.

Clifton Turner also gives this one bonus points for how easy the covers are to take off, wash, and replace.

"This is such a tried and true bolster for me," says Dani Schenone, RYT, holistic wellness expert for Mindbody. "It's perfect for sleepy restorative yoga classes."

Schenon also loves that this yoga bolster comes at a lower price point than many others out there, shouting out Retrospec for being an "all-around amazing and inclusive brand."

Another perk: Retrospec's rectangular Sequoia bolsters come in five different colors, so there's something for everyone.

Though a pricier pick, Clements swears by Hugger Mugger's rectangular yoga bolster.

"I like the sizing of it, she says. "It's tall enough that I don’t need additional props on top, firm enough that I feel supported and protected, and also has the element of softness so I can truly relax into a pose during my practice."

Another reason it's worth the splurge: Hugger Mugger's props are handmade in the USA and available in eight colors, from subtle Plum to popping Poppy.

Manduka's Lean bolster is a lightweight version of their popular classic, making it great for travel and easier to move on and off your mat.

"I dub this the Goldilocks bolster; it’s not too heavy and not too light," Schenon says. "I can easily pull this on and push it off my mat during a vigorous vinyasa class, and it’s the perfect aid for pesky poses (like one-legged pigeon) after a steady flow."

Like the standard-size Enlight bolster, the Lean features the same partially-recycled fill and easy-to-wash microfiber cover.

Sol Living is famous for their budget-friendly yoga gear, and this cylinder-shaped bolster seriously holds up.

Made with cotton fill and an ultra-soft microfiber cover, it's a comfortable, easy-to-maneuver option that won't break the bank.

"It's really comfortable and the color is beautiful color," one Amazon reviewer, Lindsey, writes. "I lay with it under my knees to alleviate lower back pain or place it under my seat with my legs straight in the air to relax before bed. I love the size too; it's the same size you'd see at a yoga studio."