Meditation is an effective activity to relax and instill peace. It has been recognized as a great way to align chakras and rejuvenate oneself. There are specialized meditation classes where the instructors guide and help the students to meditate perfectly. However, having the right equipment is a must for this, so you have a meditation cushion and chairs that allow you to sit comfortably and focus.
If you’re looking to buy a meditation cushion, there are many factors to consider to ensure you get the best value for your money and get exactly what you need. A lot of thought needs to go into this purchase, so it’s important to consider these important factors before spending your money on a meditation cushion. Let's get started to help you know more and better understand!
1) Size-
Meditation cushions come in various sizes but typically range between 18 and 36 inches in length. Because not all cushion lengths will fit you comfortably, it’s important to consider how tall you are and what position you plan on sitting in (one leg versus two legs). If your sitting position is comfortable when both legs are straight out in front of you, it would be a good idea to go with an 18-inch-or-shorter cushion. You may also want to see if others who have purchased cushions that are similar in size say they’re comfortable.
2) Material-
Any good meditation cushion should be made with natural materials that won’t affect your breathing or body temperature. Silk is an option, as are cotton and hemp. Make sure you know what you’re buying before pulling out your credit card; some synthetic materials on today’s market might feel soft in a showroom but could prove uncomfortable or even dangerous when sitting for extended periods.
3) Color-
Make sure you’re getting meditation cushions in a color that fits with your home décor. Sure, you could go for bright blue or red if those are your preferences, but chances are you’ll want something consistent with what you already have.
4) Construction-
The purpose of a meditation cushion is to support your sitting bones and back, which are commonly unsupported when you sit in chairs. If you’re buying a zafu for zazen, you’ll want it to be large enough to sit with your knees drawn up without feeling constricted (your legs will be folded underneath) and firm enough when you lean back your spine is straight.
5) How Does it Feel?
A meditation cushion is notorious for being uncomfortable and painful. Is it too hard, too soft, too small, or too big? If you’re going to be sitting cross-legged for 30–60 minutes per day, you want to ensure that your cushion is up to snuff. A good way to do that is by sitting on it in-store or finding out if there are reviews online.
6) Washability-
Washability is important if you meditate at home, especially if you have pets or children. The last thing you want is a dirty meditative experience! Ensure your cushion can be easily cleaned in case of an accident. Some cushions have covers that can be machine-washed and dried. Others can only be spot-cleaned or hand-washed with soap and water. You will have to read online reviews, take advantage of trial periods or ask friends who already own cushions when purchasing yours.
7) Price-
As with any new equipment, you’ll want to pay attention to the price when buying a meditation cushion. If you’re on a budget, keep an eye out for coupons and sales, which are great for stock-up purchases. But know that even if you shell out more money upfront, you’ll save money in other areas because it will encourage you to get up from your desk every once in a while, giving your back and mind a break from computer-screen glare.
Conclusion-
Finally, at the end of the day, if you’re looking to buy a meditation cushion, these aforementioned are some tips and factors you should consider. Overall, meditation cushions will vary wildly in quality and price. While there are some expensive options out there, it’s important to note that a high-quality meditation cushion can last for decades if properly cared for—so your cost per user may be quite low compared to other alternatives.