Meditation focuses on breathing, repeating a mantra, and concentrating on emptying your mind to attain a clear, sound, and conscious mental state. According to some experts, this practice may help reduce stress, chronic pain, anxiety, and depression.
During meditation, you need to sit with your legs crossed on the floor. But this position can be uncomfortable, especially if you need to do it for extended periods. To get more comfortable during meditation, youll need something to sit on like a mat or a cushion. Something you could sit on, like a meditation cushion, is important to make sure you feel comfortable during your meditation practice.
In this article, youll learn how to choose the best meditation cushions for your practice.
- Know Which Type Of Meditation Cushion You Need
The two primary types of meditation cushions available on the market are Zafu pillows and Zabuton pillows. Zafu cushions are smaller and taller than Zabuton pillows. On the other hand, Zabuton cushions are bigger and shorter, offering a comfortable base for your knees. Determine which cushion you need and for how long youre planning to do each session. You have the option to buy both pillows, of course, in case youll be meditating for different times.
- Choose A Cushion That Molds To Your Shape
You might want to consider using a Zafu meditation cushion, as this type of cushion molds to your shape, providing a comfortable seat. It promises less strain on the joints and provides more spine support.
Zafu pillows are small cushions that would elevate the hips while you meditate. Theyre multipurpose, easy to adjust and fold, plush, and comfortable. As the cushion elevates your hips, youll maintain proper posture. Make sure to also use a mat to offer the knees a soft place to rest when crossing your legs.
- Choose Buckwheat Pillows As An Alternative
A buckwheat pillow is a pillow usually filled with the hulls that encase buckwheat that provide a firm feel without too much hardness. This pillow is called Sobakawa in Japan and is popular for its springiness when compressed. Alternatively, some Zafu cushions also come made with durable buckwheat material that could hold its shape over time.
A buckwheat cushion is a great option since you could zip them open to give you easy access to how much buckwheat hull filling you want to add. This way, you can easily adjust the firmness of the cushion according to your liking.
- Consider The Height
Zafu meditation cushions come in at different heights, starting at five inches. When choosing a meditation cushion, its important to consider your height. For taller individuals, they may prefer a taller pillow; for shorter people, a shorter pillow should be their choice.
- Consider The Shape
Meditation cushions come in different shapes. Zabuton cushions are akin to large rectangular mats. On the other hand, Zafu cushions come in round, rectangular, and U-shaped cushions. The classic style used in meditation is a round Zafu cushion. A rectangular Zafu bolster can be used during meditation and yoga.
But why do some meditation cushions have U or V shape? U- and V-shaped cushions are designed to prevent knee and hip injury and reduce back pain by elevating the hips. Elevating certain muscles or joints is important to reduce the risk of aggravating injuries, especially those with pre-existing or recurring injuries.
- Prioritize Comfort
Meditating before you sleep can help you attain a deep and relaxing trip to dreamland. And you want to meditate without feeling any discomfort like knee pain or leg pain during the session. So choose a meditation pillow that can provide you with the utmost comfort you need.
When you use a Zafu cushion, position your buttocks on the front half of the pillow. Make sure that your legs are crossed comfortably forward. You can cross your legs in whatever angle that doesnt feel uncomfortable to avoid numbness, tingling, and pain, which are signs of improper blood flow.
- Choose A Portable Meditation Cushion
Meditating in different areas of the home or outdoors can provide you with different sceneries, inspiration, and concentration. Therefore, you need a meditation cushion you could bring with you anywhere. So how do you find one that you can carry everywhere?
Meditation cushion pillows have different features. Some come with handles for easy carrying. You can find a cushion that can be toted anywhere. Even some meditation cushions are foldable or inflatable, which makes them more convenient to carry and store between uses.
- Choose A Washable Cushion
Meditation cushions are made of soft fabrics, and some cushions are washable or are easier to wash than others. You can choose a machine-washable meditation cushion for convenience. But before even considering this, learn how to wash a pillow by machine or hand to avoid damaging it.
Takeaways
Regardless of the meditation cushion you choose, make sure to aim for a natural position. Wiggling from side to side and crossing your legs in the most comfortable position can help improve your blood circulation, relaxation, and overall meditation practice. Once you have found the perfect meditation pillow, youll enjoy every session that will guide you to overall health and fitness.