There are a wide variety of yoga props and accessories for sale in studios, gyms and on the internet. Some are basic and necessary, such as mats and others are less common. One of the lesser known props is yoga eye pillows.
Eye pillows are small pillows that are designed to cover the eyes. These pillows are useful for relaxation poses and can be used for reclined meditation. If you are trying a restorative yoga practice or yoga nidra, an eye pillow may be useful.
The pillows are certainly not necessary for any form of yoga, but may be useful if you find it difficult to fully relax. For some people, the light pressure of the eye pillow helps them to release tension in the face and relax more fully in savasana.
In addition, eye pillows are said to soothe the eyes to help you feel calm and relaxed. Using yoga eye pillows may also be beneficial if you are looking for a natural method to relieve headaches.
Yoga eye pillows are available in a variety of materials and with different filling. Silk and organic cotton are commonly used fabrics for the exterior of the pillow. The filling can be flax seed, herbal, or contain aromatherapy ingredients, such as lavender for relaxation or stress headaches and peppermint for energy and an invigorating effect. Peppermint is also said to help with stress relief and for migraine headaches.
You can find yoga eye pillows by searching online and comparing the prices and materials used in various designs. They aren’t very expensive, but if you don’t want to spend the money, you can make your own yoga eye pillows at home.
To make the pillows, start by comparing commercial eye pillows and noting the dimensions of the pillow you like. Use silk fabric and purchase flax seeds, herbs and essential oils from your local health food store and sew the pillows at home.