So you've decided you want to invest in a meditation cushion but with all of the cushion options, trying to decide on a filling is overwhelming and rather confusing too. Don't worry, we've designed a handy table for you to explore which meditation cushion filling is right for you no matter what your body shape, flexibility or where you are on your meditation journey.
Which meditation cushion filling is right for me?
|
Filling |
Pros |
Cons |
Best For |
|
Spelt Husks |
Natural, supportive, mouldable, lightweight, hypoallergenic, adjustable height, sustainable material |
Can compress over time (but easily topped up) |
Practitioners looking for 100% natural filling, good spinal support and portability |
|
Buckwheat Hulls |
Supportive, firm, mouldable, breathable |
Heavier than other fillings, can feel too firm for some |
Practitioners who want stable support |
|
Kapok |
Soft, lightweight, eco-friendly (natural fibre from kapok trees), durable |
Less mouldable (spongy feel), not as adjustable as hulls |
Those who prefer a softer, cushion-like feel |
|
Cotton Batting |
Natural, lightweight, firm, durable |
Can only be dry-cleaned (unless there is a separate removable cover) |
Best for those with open hips as cotton compresses into lower cushion |
|
Wool |
Natural, temperature-regulating, soft yet supportive |
Can compress over time, heavier, not vegan-friendly |
People seeking warmth, comfort, and a traditional natural filling |
|
Foam (Synthetic) |
Light, inexpensive, retains shape, uniform support |
Not natural, less breathable, doesn’t mould to body, less eco-friendly |
Those who prefer low-maintenance, durable cushions |
Which meditation cushion fillings do we use at Sati?
At Sati we have sourced the most natural, sustainable and supportive fillings we can for our meditation cushions and that is why we only use spelt husks and cotton batting. Below is a summary of what we fill each cushion shape with and why. For a more detailed breakdown of our meditation cushions and their fillings you can visit our cushion guide.
Zafu Meditation Cushion
We hand-fill these supportive round cushions with organic spelt husks which provide a mouldable and comfortable seat allowing you to meditate for longer periods of time. Spelt husks are a by-product of the spelt plant making this a highly sustainable option.
Rectangle Cushion, Large Floor Cushion and Knee Cushions
These meditation cushions are filled with a dense cotton wadding for maximum warmth and comfort. Use the large floor cushion to support knees and ankles from hard floors and the rectangle cushion to lift your pelvis to the right height. The knee cushions are handy little extras to prop your knees up if they don't touch the floor.
There are many options for meditation cushion fillings and there’s no single “right” choice. The best approach is to explore what feels most supportive for your body and your practice. Whether it’s spelt husks, cotton batting or another filling, what matters most is that you feel comfortable and at ease.
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