When Buddha was asked what he gained from meditation, he said he had gained nothing at all. Instead, he went on to mention what he had lost; anger, anxiety, depression, insecurity and the fear of old age and death.
Meditation has been practiced for centuries and recently, more and more people are picking it up. It has immense benefits on your physical and mental health. It is simply a way to enable you to step out of the chaos of everyday life and calm your mind down.
For hundreds of years, meditation was practiced without any equipment. It simply involved your mind, body and spirit. However, yoga mats, meditation pillows and meditation cushions have been incorporated in the modern approach to meditation.
To enable you to hold yourself in the most comfortable position possible all while providing your joints with the support they need requires choosing of the most appropriate meditation pillow. They come in a range of sizes, colors and heights. They should be able to match your preferred meditation style, lifestyle, body, flexibility and even the energy you’re trying to cultivate.
According to feng shui expert Rodika Tchi, it is important to incorporate color feng shui into your home design to bring balance, harmony and good energy. Therefore, color is an important aspect when picking out your meditation pillow. These colors will have a different effect on your mood:
- Yellow for clarity and optimism
- Red for energy elevation
- Green for calmness and balance
- Black for deep inward focus
- Blue to help you relax.
Below are a few examples of meditation pillows that you can think of when adding a meditation room as part of your home décor.
30 Best Cushions For Your Yoga and Meditation Needs
1. YogaAccessoriesTM Round Cotton Zafu Meditation Cushion
This cotton filled Zafu is firm yet comfortable. It raises your hips making the cross-legged sitting position more comfortable. If the height or firmness of the cushion is not to your satisfaction, you can simply adjust the amount of stuffing. The zipper is neatly tucked away so you’re not rubbing against it when sitting. The cotton cover is removable and washable. It comes in the traditional round shape or the crescent shape. This pillow is so comfortable; you can take it out of your meditation corner and incorporate it as part of your home decor for everyday sitting. [Around: $29.99]
2. Buckwheat Filled Zafu Yoga Meditation Pillow
The eco-friendly buckwheat hulls are perfect for aligning the spine during meditation and make the pillow very comfortable for long meditation sessions. It can be incorporated for all meditation levels. The hidden zipper is useful in the event you may want to adjust the stuffing to your satisfaction. The craftsmanship is so good; this pillow will last for a long while. It comes in the traditional round shape and in six vibrant colors to fit your tastes. If not for meditation, this pillow can be used simply as a floor cushion for watching TV or while playing with your child. [Around: $29.90]
3. PeaceYogaTM Buckwheat Filled Cotton Bolster Cushion
This buckwheat filled meditation cushion is firm but soft for comfort. It assists in relieving stress from your knees, hips and ankles as well as aligning and supporting the spine. There is a zipper that allows you to remove and wash the cotton cover. The convenient carry handle makes it easy to bring along this cushion for group meditation sessions at the gym or in the park. It comes in a variety of colors and shades to fit your personal preference. When not meditating, you can use it for floor sitting or extra padding while driving. [Around: $24.99]
4. Bean Product Zafu Yoga Meditation Cushion
Bean make a Zafu cushion filled with US grown buckwheat hulls and having a cover made from organic cotton or eco-friendly hemp fabrics. These cushions assist in spine alignment while relieving pressure from the hips, knees, ankles and back during meditation. They are available in two sizes; the standard which is 6” tall and extra-large which is 8” tall. Bean make these cushions in a round or oval shape and in twenty beautiful colors so you have a lot to choose from. If you simply hate couches and prefer to sit on the floor, this cushion is perfect for you. [Around: $39.95]
5. My Zen Home Dhyana Meditation Cushion
This beautiful dhyana cushion is perfect for relieving pressure from your lower back, knees and ankles during meditation by promoting a natural meditation posture. The bright cotton cover comes in five colors; black, brown, blue, green and red. The kapok filling makes for a firm but comfortable foundation during meditation. It might be a bit small for taller people though. If not for meditation, you can use it to make floor sitting part of your home design. [Around: $61.95]
6. Zafu Crescent Meditation Pillow
The crescent shape of this meditation pillow allows your feet to be tucked closer to your body. This makes the cross legged sitting position more comfortable and assists in maintaining a good meditation posture. It is filled with eco-friendly USA buckwheat hulls and covered with an organic cotton twill cover. The tucked away zipper allows you to adjust the firmness and height of the pillow by adding or removing the hulls. It also had a convenient handle to allow easy transport when you attend group sessions at the gym or the park. This pillow may be broader than the round Zafus with the 16” by 18” dimensions. Either way, it is a perfect meditation pillow for beginners. It super affordable too. [Around:$34.95]
7. Zentra Meditation Cushion
If you prefer a cotton filling, this is the pillow for you. The cotton is densely packed to make this cushion firm but comfortable for those long meditation sessions. This pillow offers support to the hips to make the cross legged sitting position more comfortable as well as maintaining a comfortable upward posture. The heavyweight 100% cotton fabric makes this pillow durable. The cover can also be removed for washing. Cotton is lightweight compared to buckwheat. That coupled with the convenient carry handle makes it easy to take this pillow along with you to the park, the gym or even on vacation. Other than meditation, this pillow can be used for everyday sitting or as part of the bedroom décor. The beauty of this pillow is that it comes with a bonus lavender scented eye pillow that can be used for guided meditation or even to relieve a migraine or headache after a particularly stressful day. The cushion and pillow come in a variety of colors for you to choose from. [Around: $37.90]
8. YogaAccessories TM Supportive Rectangular Cotton Yoga Bolster
The densely packed cotton filling in this bolster makes for a firm but comfortable and supportive foundation. This assists in maintaining meditation positions during long sessions. It also has handles on both sides for easy transportation as well as easy change of positions. This means it can be used for a variety of things; meditation, inversions, shavasana and support. The rounded edges of this meditation cushion makes it easy to perform restorative poses too. The 100% cotton cover is durable and removable for easy washing. When not meditating, this cushion can simply be used for everyday floor sitting while watching TV or relaxing. [Around: $32.99]
9. Rondo Therapeutic Meditation Cushion
A therapeutic cushion made from premium organic cotton makes for a soft and stable foundation that discourages discomfort. The ergonomic design assists with spine alignment and eases the strain on your hips and legs. The densely packed cotton makes it so this cushion perfectly molds your rear but doesn’t lose shape after prolonged use. It also has a handle to ease transportation making it easy for you to carry it with you to the gym or the park. This pillow can also be used for additional comfort in the car, as a laptop pillow, sitting in the park or simply watching TV. The varieties of colors they come in means you can make it part of your home decor and even match them to your couches. Something lovely about these cushions is that Seat of Your Soul give a portion from the sale of each cushion to charity. [Around: $29.97]
10. Travel Zen Inflatable Crescent Meditation Pillow
With a lightweight inflatable cushion you can travel and meditate anywhere and everywhere; the beach, the park, on holiday and even the office. It is easy to inflate and deflate and is also made of durable material. Because of the shape, it provides additional support for your back, spine, neck, hips, knees and pelvis. It can accommodate a weight load of up to 220 pounds. This inflatable cushion also engages your deep core muscles around your middle. Other than meditation, this cushion can be used to provide extra back support, as a comfortable travel pillow or even something to kneel on while working. [Around: $24.95]
11. Relaxo Zafu Statics Meditation Cushion
This traditional style cushion is filled with hypo-allergenic buckwheat hulls and recycling Styrofoam. The Styrofoam promotes circulation of air to guarantee comfort. The cushion molds the shape of your body but remains resilient and doesn’t lose shape after prolonged use. The hidden zipper enables you to add or remove stuffing as you desire. It utilizes AXIS innovative technology to ensure balance is reached for different positions such as lotus, half-lotus and Burmese. You can therefore use it for yoga, Pilates and Zen practice. Placing this cushion on any chair converts it into a tilt seat for autonomous sitting. The unique ancient East Asian designs on both sides makes it possible to add this cushion as part of the main home design.
12. Chattra Sky Feather Zafu Meditation Pillow
The mix and match prints on this cushion are inspired by Indian traditional textiles and spiritual practices and are simply beautiful. The cushion is finished in a warm shade of tranquil blue and with a festive Rajashtani tassel. They are crafted in India using traditional techniques with 100% cotton for the cover and liner and USA buckwheat filling. The buckwheat filling provides support for the spine and assists in aligning it too during meditation. It has a zipper to allow you to adjust the filling to your liking. A carry handle is also integrated to ease transportation. This cushion would also be a lovely addition to the home decor.
13. Cosmic Cushion Meditation Cushion/Yoga Pillow
The built in slope in this pillow helps maintain a comfortable upright posture during meditation. The side extensions help support the upper thighs while preventing numbness in the legs. The durable twill cover is removable and washable. Most meditation practitioners say this particular pillow is best used when practicing in the kneeling meditation position. This cosmic meditation pillow comes with the choice of either kapok or buckwheat filling. The buckwheat version has a zipper that allows you to adjust the height and firmness of the pillow. The kapok version has a compression opening to allow air to escape. It also comes in three sizes; oversized, regular and inflatable to allow you to go on your cosmic journey wherever and whenever. This pillow is recommended for people of average height, weight and level of flexibility. [Around: $85.05]
14. OM IN LOTUS Zafu Meditation Cushion
The Om in Lotus cushion boasts some wonderful craftsmanship with the om in lotus symbol incorporated on the silkscreen on silk blend fabric. It is filled with organic buckwheat that makes for a firm but comfortable foundation. The concealed zipper allows you to adjust the firmness by adding or removing some of the buckwheat filling. The cover is removable for dry-cleaning. It comes in the 15” by 6” size and in a variety of colors for you to choose from. [Around: $79.99]
15. PeaceYoga TM Zafu Meditation Bolster Pillow
The tightly packed polyester creates the right balance of firmness and pliability. It assists by relieving stress from your hips and knees while properly aligning and supporting your spine. All this helps you maintain a proper meditative posture. This meditation pillow comes in different shapes and a wide color selection to fit your different needs. The full zip enables you to remove the outer cotton cover for cleaning while the polyester is sealed in a pouch for easy removal or insertion. The handle makes it easy to carry around. You could even use it for everyday floor sitting. [Around: $19.99]
16. Round Chindi Braid Floor Reversible Pillow
This beautiful pillow is hand-woven by skilled artisans from strips of colorful recycled cotton rugs (chindi) and eco-friendly natural jute yarn. The different strips plied together make this pillow complement any home decor and its uniqueness adds personality to any room. It is also durable and reversible for double wear. [Around: $39.99]
17. Mini Crescent Moon Therapeutic Meditation Cushions
The densely packed premium organic cotton makes for a stable but soft foundation ensuring complete comfort. The ergonomic design is to align the spine and reduce stress on your hips and legs. The integrated handles enable you to carry it out to the studio or the park easily. The cover is removable for easy machine wash too. If not for meditation, this cushion can be used as a yoga block, laptop pillow or for additional comfort in the car. [Around: $29.97]
18. Children’s Meditation Cushion Zafu
This fun and playful cushion can be used when introducing children to meditation or simply for them to sit on during story time. The zip can be used to adjust the organic fill to adjust the cushion firmness and height or to remove the cover for dry-cleaning. This cushion comes in a variety of fun designs and bright colors. [Around: $49.99]
19. Satori Zafu Crescent Meditation Pillow
Satori makes a firm but comfortable and durable cushion that prevents back, knee and ankle discomfort. The eco-friendly buckwheat filling makes for a stable foundation that prevents hunching, backaches and unstable posture. It is perfect for the lotus and half lotus positions. The pillow doesn’t lose shape by going flat or limp. The inner cover is zippered to enable you adjust the amount of filling as well as prevent spilling of the filling when you take the outer cover for washing. [Around: $31.45]
20. Pure RoundZ Zafu
Kapok filling in this meditation pillow provides a comfortable and stable base for support during meditation. It is made in the USA in the traditional round Zafu style in 12” by 7” dimensions. It is maintains its shape for a long time but can be fluffed for extra softness. The mix and match color scheme matches many home designs. [Around: $49.95]
21. Pink Travel Meditation Cushion from Kathmadu Yogi
These exclusive meditation cushions are handcrafted using Tibetan silk, cotton and other Himalayan materials. The filling is made of eco-friendly organic Himalayan cotton. These cushions are so unique, no two designs are similar. Their ergonomic design is ideal for spinal alignment for short or extended meditation sessions. The edges are reinforced to ensure durability. They have an integrated handle for easy carrying and a wide zipper for easy removal of the cover for washing. The sizes and designs of these cushions are recommended for beginner and intermediate meditators. Kathmandu Yogi is a Fairtrade company which helps develop the lives of its artisans in Nepal and Latin America. [Around: $46.50]
22. Rondo Style Zafu Meditation Pillow
This meditation pillow is more contemporary as it elevates you higher than traditional cushions. It is filled with eco-friendly US grown buckwheat hulls and the cover and liner made of cotton. The hulls make it sturdy to provide a firm but comfortable support for meditation positions. It also assists with spine alignment. The height is easily adjustable by adding or removing the hulls and is great for all yoga and meditation levels and styles. It is available in six colors. Other than meditation it can be used as a pillow when lying on the floor or for sitting at a low Japanese table as part of your home decor. [Around: $23.95]
23. Hugger mugger Standard Choice Yoga Bolster
With this standard bolster, you get stronger and more stable yoga postures. It provides support for all yoga poses. The cover is made of cotton with foam and cotton filling making it firm but comfortable. It can also be placed between your knees when sleeping, other than meditation. The integrated handles on both ends assist with transportation as well as easy position changing. The cover is durable and can be removed for washing. It is a very high quality bolster but worth every penny. [Around: $58.24]
24. Mindful Yoga Pillow
This beautifully handcrafted patchwork meditation pillow from Vietnam is perfect for meditation. The densely packed cotton filling provides for a stable, firm and soft foundation to relieve stress from your knees and hips during meditation. It also relieves pressure from your lower back. This pillow is also perfect for simple floor seating as part of your main décor. The beautiful patchwork comes in a variety of color schemes that can fit into any house design. [Around: $59.99]
25. Padmini Yoga Meditation Cushion
These exclusive cushions are handcrafted using Tibetan silk, cotton and other Himalayan materials. The filling is made of eco-friendly US grown buckwheat hulls. These cushions are so unique, no two designs are similar. Their ergonomic design is ideal for spinal alignment for short or extended meditation sessions. The edges are reinforced to ensure durability. They have an integrated handle for easy carrying and a wide zipper for easy removal of the cover for washing. The sizes and designs of these cushions are recommended for beginner and intermediate meditators. Kathmandu Yogi is a Fairtrade company which helps develop the lives of its artisans in Nepal and Latin America. [Around: $88.50]
26. DragonFly Yoga Rondo Cushion
This finely crafted cushion is perfect for meditation and pranayama exercises. The densely packed cotton filling makes it firm yet comfortable enough. This pillow can be used by people of all heights and weights. It comes with an integrated handy and practical carry handle that allows you to carry it to the studio, park or gym. The 50% viscose 50% polyester cover is easily removable and washable. The elegant design makes it easy to incorporate into your home design. [Around: $35.44]
27. Indian Floor Cushion Cover
This cotton handmade floor cushion cover pulls you in with its vibrant colors and sophisticated patchwork. It comes in many different colors and shades. Aplique patchwork is applied so the patches may vary but the base color will be similar. You can stuff it yourself to make a comfortable floor cushion or use it to cover an ottoman. [Around: $17.84]
28. ZenGear Meditation Cushion
If simplicity is more your style, then this cushion will be perfect for your meditation and yoga needs. The dense cotton filling provides support while relieving pressure and aiding in spinal alignment. It is durable and remains pliable for comfort. The side zipper makes it possible to adjust the height and firmness by adding or replacing the cotton filling. The cover is made of durable cotton canvas that is removable and washable. The sturdy carrying strap makes transportation easy. It can be used for normal floor seating too. [Around: $34.95]
29. Indian Traditional Home Decorative Handmade Cover
This authentic Indian cotton cushion covers are handcrafted by artisans in Barmer, India. The patches are made from old valuable saris and dresses stitched together to make a collage effect. The detailed patterns and beautiful stitching makes it complement any home design and you can stuff them to make floor cushions. [Around: $21.80]
30. Zabuton Cushion
Although it may be used traditionally with a Zafu pillow, it can be used alone for yoga. The kapok filling is lighter and fluffier than cotton and is 100% organic. It is wonderfully padded and can fold into two for easy storage and also so your cat doesn’t use it as a giant bed. The organic cotton cover is removable for easy washing. It comes in six soothing colors and matches the Waterglider Zafu pillow set. [Around: $49.95]
You should remember, meditation not only involves the effort of the mind but of the body too. The body is required to remain in one position for longer than it is used to. Incorporating these pillows or cushions is necessary; whether practicing alone or in a group setting. They enable you to focus the mind without distractions caused by physical discomfort caused during or after meditation.
We see that they come in a number of shapes, sizes and styles. These meditation pillows are the key to a more rewarding meditation experience. Choosing the right one can be the difference between sitting numbly and in discomfort or meditating in peace. It could affect how you move along the steps to spiritual growth or self-discovery. All these items are made to help you maintain the right posture during meditation and relieve stress from other areas of your body. From this list, you can now select a meditation pillow that suits your preferred design, shape, material type, size, type of filling, meditation and yoga needs and even color. However,remember to select one that is best situated for the type of ground you constantly practice on. That is, thicker ones if you practice on hard floors and thinner ones for soft grounds.