Halfmoon - Why Use a Meditation Cushion?

why use a meditation cushion?

Emily Sproule | Mar 07, 2013 | minute read

There are so many reasons to practice yoga: to increase flexibility, to build strength, to reduce stress, to experience community…

It’s easy to forget that its original purpose was to prepare the body for the stillness of meditation.

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Round Meditation Cushion

Let’s face it, half the battle of meditation is getting comfortable enough to stop thinking about sitting.

Why Is Sitting Uncomfortable?

Sitting comfortably in an unsupported cross-legged (or lotus) position means sitting tall, and maintaining the natural curves of the spine.

This position requires a level of mobility in the ankles, knees, and hips that most of us don’t have (hello, desk job!)

The result: cramping, pinching, and slumping that makes it tough to focus on anything other than when you can get up again.

Enter the Meditation Cushion…

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A meditation cushion lifts your hips and allows them to roll slightly forward, supporting the natural curve of your low back. Once your spine is aligned, the rest of your body follows naturally. Instant bliss!

Choosing a Meditation Cushion

Cushions

The traditional meditation cushion was round (like this one) and many continue to use this style to meditate in comfort.

Meditation cushions have also evolved over time. Now you can find styles like the b, halfmoon Zafu, which has a unique crescent shape that supports your thighs and makes space for you to tuck your ankles in close to your body.

Regardless of the style you choose, we recommend opting for a cushion that’s filled with a material that conforms to the shape of your body and allows air circulation (we love buckwheat hulls for this!)

Supporting Your Lower Legs

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During longer meditation sessions the floor can be really hard on your feet and ankles.

For extra support, try placing a Zabuton floor cushion or some folded blankets underneath your Zafu.

We love to package Zafus and Zabutons together in Meditation Sit Sets. Not only do they provide a total comfort solution for seated meditation, their beautiful presence also defines your meditation space.

Why Meditate?

Practicing meditation energizes your awareness, brings peace to your life and expands your capacity to love unconditionally. Take some steps to find comfort and ease in your meditation, and be the love you want to see in the world.

“Meditation takes us just as we are, with our confusion and our sanity. This complete acceptance of ourselves as we are is a simple, direct relationship with our being. We call this maitri, loving-kindness toward ourselves and others.” – Pema Chodron

*An Important Note:

In this article we’ve talked about seated meditation in a cross-legged, or lotus position. However, there are many ways to meditate, including kneeling on a bench, sitting in a chair, standing, and walking.

There’s no wrong way to meditate, so we encourage you to experiment and find the best method for you.

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