Where to Buy a Meditation Pillow
A Guide to Finding the Perfect Cushion
A meditation pillow (or zafu) is more than just a cushion; it’s a key component to creating a comfortable, focused meditation practice. Finding the right cushion can make all the difference for both your body and mind. If you’ve been experiencing discomfort while sitting, or just want to improve your practice, you might be surprised how much a good meditation pillow can help.
Why the Right Meditation Pillow Matters
The main purpose of a meditation pillow is to elevate your hips so your spine can be properly aligned while you meditate. This reduces strain on your back, knees, and joints. When you’re comfortable, your mind can focus, allowing you to meditate for longer without being interrupted by physical discomfort.
If you’ve ever experienced that annoying twinge in your knee or that slow burn in your lower back during a session, it could be because you’re not using the right pillow. The perfect pillow supports your body and helps prevent unnecessary distractions, leading to a more peaceful and productive practice.
Choosing the Right Size Meditation Pillow
One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to meditation pillows. The right size for you depends on your body type and the position in which you meditate. If you have longer legs or mobility issues, you might prefer a higher pillow to give your hips more lift. On the other hand, those who are more flexible or have a shorter build might benefit from a lower cushion.
It’s also essential to test different heights and levels of firmness to find what feels best. If you can, shop in person. Try out a few cushions to see which one gives you the support you need, or make sure you’re buying from a company with a generous return policy so you can return or exchange your pillow if it doesn’t feel quite right.
You can visit Love My Mat in person at 809 King St. East on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am - 4pm or by appointment. Check out our collection of Meditation Cushions online here.
Types of Cushion Fillings
When it comes to meditation cushions, the stuffing makes a big difference in both comfort and durability. Here are three common types:
-
Cotton: Cushions filled with cotton are soft and supportive but can become compressed over time. They’re usually the least expensive option and are a good choice for beginners who want something soft and comfortable without breaking the bank.
-
Kapok: Kapok is a natural fibre that’s light, soft, and resilient. It’s great for people who want a firmer cushion that still has a little give. Because kapok is natural, it's also an eco-friendly option, which makes it appealing to sustainability-minded meditators.
-
Buckwheat Hulls: Buckwheat-filled cushions are the most popular among experienced meditators. The hulls provide firm support but conform to your body, creating a custom fit. They tend to stay cool and breathable, which is great for long meditation sessions. Buckwheat cushions can feel a bit heavier than cotton or kapok, but their flexibility and durability make them a top choice.
Washable Covers Are a Must
Let’s face it—things get dirty. Whether it’s from sweat, dust, or simply time, your meditation cushion will need cleaning eventually. A removable, washable cover is not just a luxury, it’s a necessity. You’ll want to keep your cushion looking and feeling fresh, and being able to throw the cover in the wash is the easiest way to do that.
Some companies don't include an inner liner for their meditation cushions. Which means you need to manually remove all the filling before washing the cover. This often leads to loosing some of the fill or loosing the desire to wash the cover. Love My Mat Meditation Pillows always have a separate inner liner with a zipper so you can add or remove buckwheat hulls as needed.
Best Places to Buy Meditation Cushions Online
Now that you know what to look for in a meditation pillow, here are three companies that sell quality cushions online (without using Amazon):
-
Love My Mat
Based in Canada, Love My Mat specializes in eco-friendly, handcrafted meditation cushions made from sustainable materials. Our cushions are filled with buckwheat hulls, which mold perfectly to your body, offering firm yet flexible support. Each cushion comes with a removable, machine-washable cover, and the brand emphasizes sustainability in all of its products. Plus, the designs are beautiful and unique, adding a bit of personal style to your meditation space. And we have a great return policy and product guarantee!
-
Hugger Mugger
Hugger Mugger offers a wide selection of meditation cushions, from classic zafus to crescent-shaped cushions. They provide detailed descriptions of each pillow’s size and stuffing, making it easy to choose the right one for your body. -
DharmaCrafts
DharmaCrafts is a popular brand that focuses on high-quality, handmade meditation cushions. Their cushions are filled with either organic buckwheat hulls or kapok and are designed to last. They have an excellent return policy in case you need to swap out your cushion. -
YogaAccessories
YogaAccessories offers affordable yet durable meditation cushions in a variety of sizes, colors, and fillings, including cotton and buckwheat. Many of their cushions feature removable, washable covers, and they also have helpful guides on how to choose the best pillow for your practice.
Final Thoughts on the best place to get a meditation pillow
Investing in the right meditation pillow can transform your practice, making it more comfortable and effective. Whether you prefer a cotton-filled cushion or something firmer like buckwheat, remember that comfort is key. Try to find a size that fits your body and posture and always make sure the cover is washable.
If possible, shopping in person will allow you to test different cushions and find the one that feels just right. But if that’s not possible, stick with companies that offer easy returns and have a range of options.
Your mind and body will thank you for choosing a cushion that supports you, not just during meditation, but in maintaining a practice that feels effortless and inviting.
