Choosing the right meditation cushion

Did you know? Originally, the term "asana", often translated as "posture", actually refers to sitting. It refers to both the seat on which one sits and the posture itself. Of course, the different postures of Hatha Yoga prepare for this sitting and the inner attitude that facilitates the state of meditation. But the quality of the sitting posture determines the quality of a session, which is why it is essential to choose your meditation cushion carefully.

The quality of sitting posture determines the quality of a session

Body and mind are connected: good posture is essential to remain in a relaxed and alert state, neither tense nor distracted.

There are many postures to practice meditation, because the lotus posture is not given to everyone. This is why there are different meditation supports to protect your ankles and knees and help keep your back straight during your meditation practice.

Depending on your practice, your morphology or even your preferences, do not hesitate to sit on a support such as a smallbrick or a firm meditation cushion (zafu) or a meditation bench .

The idea is to encourage the tilting of the pelvis by raising it in order to keep the back straight and long and have a comfortable posture.

If you choose the cushion option, choose a cushion that is more or less high, firm or soft. Traditional cushions, called zafu , generally have a high seat.

They are especially recommended for tall people and anyone starting meditation.

Some cushions are filled with kapok (soft seat), others with spelt grains (firmer).

The shape of the cushion is also important for good meditation.

• the “classic”, all round, has the advantage of being very wide;
• The half-moon or heart-shaped one fits the body shape well.
• There are also rectangular cushions, very practical and easy to transport.
• Finally, the folding cushions offer different heights and are therefore modular.
• And finally, there is also the meditation bench which allows you to place your knees bent in front of the bench. But be aware that the bench is a much higher support than a meditation cushion. It has the merit of keeping the spine straight without effort. This variant is recommended if you have weakness in your knees.
  
  Of course, color and design also count: choose a cushion that you like, it will be easier for you to meditate!

Our tip for guaranteed comfort

Wedge cushions, yoga blocks or rolled blankets under your knees so that you can relax on them! It is also quite possible to sit on a meditation bench, in a kneeling position or, why not, on a chair. The essential thing, whatever the chosen seat, is to be able to keep your back straight, but not tense. The chin is slightly tucked in to align the back of the head and the cervical spine. The gluteal bones (the ischiums) are stable and centered, anchored on the support (cushion, bench or chair).

Finally, do not hesitate to cover yourself with a shawl or a small blanket so as not to be cold and not to be bothered by the cooling of the body when sitting.

Good practice!