Types of meditation pillows

There are thin rectangular pillows, crescent-shaped pillows, and round Zafu pillows.

The Zafu meditation cushion is native to Japan. Typically used for zazen (Japanese Zen meditation), it is made of heavy fabric and filled with a fluffy material such as kapok. Many Japanese meditation stories feature the Zafu, such as the story of a Zen master who "went through" 8 Zafu cushions over the years of his practice. He wore them out one after the other, and each one ended up being almost as flat as a pancake.

The Zafu meditation cushion, a traditional round cushion, elevates the hips and upper body so that the legs can be positioned comfortably. Typically, a person sits on the edge of the Zafu, so that the hips are slightly tilted downward. This posture creates a natural curve in the spine. When the spine is in its natural position, the back, shoulders, neck, and head assume a comfortable upright position that is easy to maintain during meditation. The Zafu cushion is well suited for people of average height and with normal to above-average flexibility.

Taller people and those with limited flexibility will find it more comfortable to sit higher, on the very top of the Zafu. A rectangular
meditation cushion can be used with the Zafu to increase elevation and allows for cushion placement to maintain proper alignment.

Half Moon Meditation Cushion

A unique option is the Crescent Pillow . This pillow has a built-in tilt that provides proper alignment with great comfort. The extended sides of the pillow support the hips, and the round recess allows you to position your heels and ankles closer to the body. The crescent pillow works well for most people, but is an ideal pillow for taller people and those who are less flexible.

For those who prefer a low rise, a buckwheat hull pillow may be a better choice, as you can adjust the density of the pillow to your liking.

A rectangular meditation cushion is a simple solution that can provide elevation for proper body alignment. The elevation is not as high as a standard Zafu. A rectangular meditation cushion is often preferred by experienced meditators.

Rectangular Zabuton meditation cushions provide cushioning for your knees and ankles during seated meditation. This cushion is placed under a Zafu or other cushion. Proper body alignment when sitting can put extra pressure on your knees and ankles, and the Zabuton helps to relieve these pressure points.

A comfortable meditation cushion encourages you to meditate constantly.

Set of Meditation Pillows

Materials used to make pillows

Main materials used to make meditation cushions:

kapok;
wool;
cotton;
polyester;
buckwheat husk.
Pillow fillers (kapok VS buckwheat husks)

Kapok is a fluffy cotton-like material that grows on cotton trees in Asia and the southern regions of the USA.
Kapok is a light (80% air - 8 times lighter than cotton) and elastic elastic fiber. It is durable and does not fall apart during operation, so it is not even used for spinning. The hairs are covered with vegetable wax, which makes the filler resistant to moisture and has excellent buoyancy. This filler is very good for meditation pillows, because it does not compress like cotton, polyester and foam. A pillow filled with Kapok is very light.

Buckwheat husk is the shell of buckwheat grains. When poured into a pillow, it creates the effect of sand, but with much less weight. However, a buckwheat husk pillow weighs more than a cotton pillow. The advantage of buckwheat husk is that it easily adapts to the shape of the body and creates a very comfortable feeling. Buckwheat husk pillows are more stable than cotton pillows, and many people prefer them.

The color of the pillow is not a very important detail, although most people look for a color that will match the color scheme of their meditation space.

In general, primary colors affect your personal energy in the following ways:

Red - associated with the energy of fire, increases energy
Purple - restores balance (so does plum)
Yellow - uplifts the mood and clears the mind
Blue is a calming color that helps you relax.
Black - helps achieve deep inner focus and discipline
Orange - brings healing on both a physical and psychological level
Green - creates balance and calm, stimulates slow, deep breathing

Regardless of the posture adopted during meditation, a solid foundation, proper alignment to support the body and breathing, and comfort are important. Meditation and support cushions play an important role in achieving comfort so that one can focus on the mind and not be distracted by physical discomfort. During our first meditation practice, it is helpful to focus on the body for a short time to notice any parts of it that need additional support or adjustment.

Meditation cushions are tools for meditation practice. Whether you choose the traditional Zafu and Zabuton meditation cushions or a crescent pillow, your meditation experience will undoubtedly be enhanced with these tools.