If you are new to meditation you may be wondering what distinguishes a meditation cushion from a normal cushion and how to choose one that is right for you.
When I went on retreat for the first time (which was the first time I had ever meditated too) I remember being surprised that meditation cushions were even a thing. In my mind, when you meditated you just sat on a cushion like the scatter cushions you have on your sofa! I had heard about meditation cushions but I wondered whether they had any real value or whether they were just a marketing gimmick. But as soon as I sat down on my cushion on that retreat, I understood the difference.
The hall was set up with rows of meditation cushions much like the image of our natural cushion set above - rectangular cushions placed on top of large floor cushions - and as I sat down I noticed how supportive it was. Unlike a sofa cushion it was firm and this made me sit in a different way; a better way. It tilted my pelvis at just the right angle to keep my back straight and the zabuton (floor cushion) below provided a soft surface for my ankles to rest on. Little did I know how valuable these cushions would become over the next 10 days of intensive meditation I was about to embark on and the profound importance of a comfortable seat when you meditate!
And this is what I want to tell you. The most important thing to look for in a meditation cushion is comfort. No matter how long you are going to be meditating for, a cushion is there to help you on your journey and support your physical posture. If your cushion is not making it easier for you to sit still (perhaps it is digging in at a strange point or not giving you enough height/support/softness) then it isn’t helping. A good meditation cushion will leave you feeling held and alleviate any unnecessary discomfort. Because let’s face it, you want to feel the benefits as soon as you have made the investment :)
Choosing a cushion is a very personal thing because what is comfortable to you may not be comfortable to someone else. Obviously the most ideal thing is to try a cushion out before you buy it (below is a list of upcoming fairs we are doing if you are based in Cornwall!) but if you aren’t able to do this here are some things to consider:
- Height - are your hips flexible? If not a higher seat is probably better for you.
- Posture - do you prefer kneeling or sitting? Our round cushions are perfect for kneelers!
- Filling - do you prefer dense cotton or malleable spelt husks? Spelt husks are a personal fav as they mould to your shape instantly.
- Durability - is the fabric durable and long-lasting? We have designed our covers with this in mind!
If you are interested in reading more about the cushions we offer we have a guide on our website to help you. And if you still have questions, just get in touch and we will do our best to answer them.
Try before you buy at these upcoming events :-
Lime House Yoga (nr Newquay) - Saturday 19th November 2022
Sunshine Yoga, Penryn - Sunday 4th December 2022
Tregew Barn, Flushing - Sunday 18th December 2022
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