What you actually need to start yoga.

Not fifteen things. Three. And a willingness to look uncoordinated for the first month.

We see beginners buying too much too early. A mat, two blocks, and a meditation cushion — that's it. Everything else can wait.

The mat

In our hot climate, a cheap mat turns slippery the second you sweat. Natural rubber grips better, lasts longer, and doesn't off-gas a chemical smell. Invest here — this is the piece you'll use every day.

The blocks

Blocks don't make you less flexible. They make poses possible. Can't reach the floor in a forward fold? Put a block under your hand. Shoulders tight? Block under your hand in plank. Buy two cork blocks — firmer and denser than foam.

The cushion

You don't need it for yoga. You need it for the ten minutes of stillness after. A zafu cushion elevates the hips, removes pressure from the knees, and makes sitting comfortable for more than two minutes.

What to skip

Yoga wheels. Straps. Bolsters. Expensive athletic wear. You'll know when you need it — and if you never do, you just saved $200.