10.Placement of Bolsters During Relaxation Therapy

2. Title: Where to Place Bolsters When Relaxation Therapy: Support Where Your Body Needs It Most  In relaxation therapy, rest isn’t a luxury—it’s essential. Whether through yoga, guided imagery, deep breathing, or postural rest, your body must be supported in order to relax. That's where bolsters enter the picture. These firm, versatile cushions are an integral part of facilitating the body to release tension, stay aligned, and achieve deeper states of relaxation.

3. But where you put a bolster is as important as putting one there. On this blog, we'll be discussing how and where bolsters are placed for optimal use in relaxation therapy.  What Are Bolsters Used For? Bolsters are large, long cushions that assist in supporting various areas of the body while resting or moving slowly. They help you sit or lie in a healthy position, let your muscles unwind, and take the strain off your joints. They're often used in:   Restorative yoga  Meditation practices  Physical therapy  Deep relaxation or stress relief sessions 

4. Common Bolster Placements and Their Benefits  1. Under the Knees (While Lying on Your Back)  Putting a bolster under your knees decreases tension in the lower back and encourages a more natural curve of the spine. It is a good position to use for guided meditation, shavasana (yoga corpse pose), or plain rest.  Benefit:  Relieves lumbar strain  Encourages full-body relaxation  Eases leg fatigue

5. 2. Along the Spine (Chest Opener)  Allow your arms to dangle open by your sides.  Benefit:  Opens the chest and shoulders  Improves posture  Relieves hunching caused by working at a desk or using a phone

6. 3. Under the Hips (Seated or Reclined)  Use a bolster to lift your hips up slightly when seated cross-legged or in reclined positions such as sputa buddha Kon asana (reclining butterfly).  Benefit:  Lessens tension in hip joints  Helps your spine stay straight and balanced.  4. Under Calves or Ankles (Leg Elevation)

7. As you rest on your back, slide a bolster under your calves for a light, calming lift to your legs.  Benefit:  Increases circulation  Suppresses swelling or leg fatigue  Relieves heel and lower back pressure  5. Across Chest or Belly (Weighted Comfort)  Some individuals prefer to have a soft, light bolster on the belly or chest while resting.  Benefit:  Puts grounding sensation  Can ease anxiety and encourage deep breathing  Helps in body awareness practices  Best Practices for Using Bolsters in Therapy