As a brand that specialises in meditation cushions, we often get asked two questions; 1) What is a meditation cushion? and 2) Do I actually need one?
Essentially people want to gauge whether making this investment is going to be a worthwhile one or whether their so-called magic meditation cushion will just end up getting dusty in the cupboard along with all the other 'essential' hobby equipment they bought on a frenzied whim.
And whilst you think that we would be saying yes you 100% need a meditation cushion (as this would make marketing sense!) the truth is you don't need a meditation cushion to meditate. The beauty of meditation is that you can do it anywhere in any position with virtually no props because meditation is about being with what is at any time in any place on any cushion/chair/bench/floor.
But we do need to ask ourselves some questions. Firstly, how often/long are we planning on meditating? Is this something we are going to make a part of our daily lives or is it just going to be an occasional thing? And secondly - and most importantly - how does our posture feel when we sit? Do our backs feel supported? Is our neck straight? Does our spine feel relaxed but upright? Because sitting in a position that compromises our posture will almost certainly create problems for us in the future.
So what can a meditation cushion offer that a regular cushion can't?
Meditation cushions have a common goal; to optimise spinal alignment by tilting your pelvis forward slightly so that your body can rest in a healthy, supported posture whilst you meditate. As such, meditation cushions are firm enough to support you but soft enough to allow you to sit in comfort for longer periods of time. This is why we have considered our fillings so carefully; spelt husks in our zafus and dense cotton in our rectangle cushions. Both of these offer maximum support and comfort.
Ideally you want to achieve the natural “S” curve when you sit for meditation. Often talked about in yoga, this posture is characterised by an erect spine that gently curves in at the bottom and out at the top, with the neck straight and the chin slightly tucked in. A meditation cushion will help with this and also reduce pressure on your lower back and knees, preventing your legs from going to sleep and alleviating discomfort.
Aside from the postural benefits a meditation cushion can offer, it is also beneficial to have a permanent set up in your house, if you have space for this. Leaving your cushion out in a designated space, whether that's the corner of your bedroom or a quiet place in the house will help you create a permanent sanctuary to retreat to whenever you want.
So in summary a meditation cushion is a worthy investment if you want to dedicate more time to a mindfulness practice and keep your body healthy in the process!
Visit our guide in the menu to see which meditation cushion best suits your needs.
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