What is your meditation ritual? Some people simply close their eyes and quietly think about a calming place, while some take a more active approach and visualize the possible outcomes of a current situation in their lives.
I prefer to listen to some light music during meditation, but I am always open to trying new methods.
One of the reasons that meditation is so effective is that no one person’s method is exactly the same as another’s.
No matter which way you choose to meditate, you want to be comfortable during the process. So why not choose a set of cushions that are specifically designed for meditation?
Here, we will go over the five best meditation cushion sets for 2024. After exploring the details of each, you will be able to determine which set is likely the best for you.
No time to read the entire review? Here's a quick look at our top meditation cushion picks!
 | Best Overall Choice: Halfmoon Sit Set: Mod Meditation Cushion + Zabuton | CLICK HERE FOR PRICE |
 | Runner-Up Option: ZafuStore Buckwheat Zafu and Zabuton Meditation Cushion Set | CLICK HERE FOR PRICE |
 | Best Value for the Money: Awaken Meditation Cushion Set | CLICK HERE FOR PRICE |
 | Most Budget-Friendly: Leewadee Foldable Meditation Floor Seat 2 in 1 Set | CLICK HERE FOR PRICE |
 | Most Color Options: Bean Products Zafu and Zabuton Meditation Cushion Set | CLICK HERE FOR PRICE |
 | Most Eco-Friendly Meditation Cushion Set: Leewadee Meditation Set: Zafu Cushion, Zabuton Mat | CLICK HERE FOR PRICE |
 | Best Meditation Chair: Serenity Meditation Chair | CLICK HERE FOR PRICE |
Why Do You Need a Meditation Cushion?
Your body is neither flat nor curved exactly like anyone else's. And without proper support, your body will mold to the shape of whatever you are sitting on. This causes your body to misalign, and can cause pain or discomfort.
Meditation cushions or pillows can improve your posture and comfort level while you are meditating. Like any other practice, meditation requires you to have the proper tools in order to have a successful practice session.
How to Choose a Meditation Cushion Set
It may be difficult for some to believe that sitting meditation is actually physically demanding.
But the truth is, when you sit still and take the time to tune into your body for an extended period of time, you will probably start to become uncomfortable. Additionally, sitting for a while in the same position will likely make you restless.
Consider Your Skeleton
Being able to sit comfortably depends on your ability to maintain your natural curves with your spine. Your spine is designed to be able to support itself naturally when its curves are in a natural position.
One of the most common issues regarding the sitting position that people experience during meditation is due to the structure of hip joints, or inflexibility.
When your sacrum tilts back, your lumbar curve has to straighten to make up for it, causing you to have to use a lot of strength in your core to sit upright. After using a lot of energy just to sit, you are likely to struggle to stay seated, and will get tired quickly.
Sukhasana is the traditional seated position for meditation, but this method is not the best for everyone. Everyone's hip joints rotate differently, causing them to sit in different positions for optimal comfort.
If your knees fall below your hip bones while you are seated in a cross-legged position, this means that your hip joints easily rotate externally.
If your knees tend to rise higher than your hip bones, it means that your hip joints are more inclined to rotate internally, which will make sitting for extended periods of time uncomfortable.
Define Your Needs
Different people have different needs when it comes to meditation. Instead of picking up the first meditation cushion set that you come across, you should stop to take a few things into consideration so you don't end up wasting time or money.
Think about what kind of meditation you will be doing. Some cushions are a better fit for some types of meditation than they are for others.
For example, Zen meditation requires kneeling, so the user will need a cushion that supports that position. Some meditations are done exclusively while sitting, so a different kind of cushion is needed.
Additionally, consider if you have any special requirements. For example, if you have a spinal injury, you will want to find a meditation cushion that provides extra support for your spine.
If you are injured in any way, your injury should be your first priority when looking for a cushion so you are sure that the injured part of your body is supported. Meditation cushions that give the user special support typically state this information on the label.
Also, think about where your cushions will go in your living space. Will they fit with your other decor? Consider the color options as well as the pattern or design options that are available.
You will want your meditation room to be beautiful and peaceful, so it is a good idea to consider the colors in the room and make sure that they feel calming to you.
How to Test Your Cushion
You will definitely need a cushion that is able to support your weight and posture. This means that your spine is straight and your lower back is naturally curved. Your upper back should be slightly curved and your head should be lightly sitting on top of your neck.
You will know that you have the right cushion and you are in the correct position for meditating when you feel like your spine is able to support itself without giving it any effort.
To test this, first, sit on your cushion and get comfortable. Then pay attention to your spine and make sure that it feels comfortable and effortless. Stay in this position for at least 10 minutes, and make sure that you do not become uncomfortable.
If you remain comfortable for 10 minutes, then this is likely the right cushion for you. As long as you do not start to feel like you need to apply effort to keep your spine straight, this is a healthy choice.
What Are the Different Types of Cushions?
Zafu
The word “zafu” translates to “sewn seat” in English.
These are usually around 14 inches in diameter, and about 8 inches high.
Modern zafus are made with three pieces of heavy cloth, forming a cylinder with two round swatches for the top and bottom of the cushion, and long, sewn-in rectangles for the sides. Zafus are usually filled with either kapok or buckwheat hulls, and are used by Zen Buddhists when engaging in seated meditation.
This type of cushion helps raise the hips, increasing the stability of the meditator with a wider range of available sitting positions.
Buckwheat Hulls
This filling is the most popular for modern practitioners to use.
The buckwheat hull allows the meditator to feel like they are sitting on sand, as it shifts underneath the body and conforms to one's specific shape. While it is a little firm, it definitely has some give to it.
Buckwheat hulls are the outer shell of the buckwheat grain that is too hard to be eaten by either humans or animals, making it a waste product.
This is great for people who prefer a cushion on the softer side that shapes under you. However, some companies who use buckwheat hulls do make their cushions in ways that are sturdier and taller than kapok cushions.
Kapok Fiber
Cushions filled with kapok tend to be firmer than cushions filled with buckwheat hulls. Kapok holds your body more steadily because it provides less give.
Kapok is a soft and natural fiber that is hypoallergenic and resistant to mold and mildew. It is derived from the seedpod of the kapok tree. Kapok is naturally silky and resilient and has been used for centuries as a traditional stuffing for cushions.
Kapok tends to compress a bit over time, so you may need to keep filling it up as time passes. Meditators who sit for a very long period of time and those who need tall support usually prefer kapok cushions.
Zabuton
A zabuton usually measures somewhere between 20 and 30 inches square. It is several inches thick when it is new.
A round zafu is placed on top of a zabuton, which cushions the knees and ankles during meditation. Zabutons are usually filled with cotton and are a worthwhile investment for people who practice meditation.
7 Best Meditation Cushion Sets (2024 Review)
While there are many meditation cushion sets on the market to choose from, some are more versatile and user-friendly than others.
Here are comprehensive reviews of the top five meditation cushion sets for 2024. After reading these reviews, you will have a better idea of the product that will work best for you.
1. Best Overall Choice: Halfmoon Sit Set: Mod Meditation Cushion + Zabuton
Gaiam products are known for their beauty and quality, and this meditation cushion kit lives up to all the expectations.
This set is comfortable, durable, and easy to care for, allowing you to meditate for longer, without strain or pressure from your spine, ankles, or knees. It's a fantastic choice for a matching Zafu & Zabuton set.
Halfmoon Sit Set: Mod Meditation Cushion + Zabuton consists of a zafu that is 5.5 inches high and 13 inches in diameter. Using the zafu helps you improve your meditation posture by stacking your spine and supporting your weight.
It is filled with buckwheat hulls that conform to your body's shape. Inside the cover, the buckwheat filling is in a zippered bag so you can adjust the amount of filling if necessary.
The removable microfiber cover is machine washable and has a handle for easy carrying and portability. The zabuton measures 27 x 30 inches and is 3 inches high.
It creates extra room for your practice, with additional cotton cushioning for your body. It has a matching soft-touch microfiber cover, so the set naturally goes together and looks great anywhere.
Pros
Con
2. Runner-Up Option: ZafuStore Buckwheat Zafu and Zabuton Meditation Cushion Set
This ZafuStore Buckwheat Zafu and Zabuton Meditation Cushion Set is a round traditional meditation cushion that has pleated sides. With a cover made from cotton twill fabric, the zafu is stuffed with buckwheat hulls and is easily adjusted by the user through a zipper opening.
All of the zafus offered are double-stitched for extra durability and have carrying handles for easy travel.
Each zafu is about 14 inches in diameter and 7 inches high, with a weight of 7 pounds. The accompanying zabuton is stuffed with kapok that is packed to give the user solid support and comfort.
The outer cover of the zabuton is also made from cotton twill fabric and includes a zipper along one side so it can be easily taken off and washed.
The kapok is enclosed in a casing inside the cover. This is the best overall choice due to its durability and comfort.
Pros
Cons
3. Best Value for the Money: Awaken Meditation Cushion Set
A crescent-shaped zafu cushion may be more comfortable for some body types, and this matching meditation set from Awaken Higher Self has a crescent cushion and lots of thoughtful details that help you meditate for longer, in greater comfort.
The Awaken Meditation Cushion Set has a crescent shaped zafu that measures 22 x 16 x 4 inches. It has a buckwheat hull filling for comfortable support that conforms to your body.
The buckwheat filling is in a zippered bag inside the cushion, so you can adjust the amount of filling to your preference. The 100% cotton cover is removable and machine washable.
The zabuton measures 31 x 27 x 4 inches, and also has an inner zippered shell that contains the cotton filling. The cotton cover of the zabuton is also removable and machine washable.
The zafu has a carrying handle, and the zabuton has a tie-around carrying handle, for added convenience.
The Awaken Meditation Cushion Set comes in grey, orange, or purple.
Pros
Con
4. Most Budget-Friendly: Leewadee Foldable Meditation Floor Seat 2 in 1 Set
Not everybody is the same, and not everyone can be comfortable in the same position. This folding meditation seat from Leewadee is a 2-in-1 pillow and cushion design, that can be folded for different meditation postures or stored compactly when not in use.
It's versatile, comfortable, and affordable, for a great choice in a meditation cushion.
The Leewadee Foldable Meditation Floor Seat 2 in 1 Set is a cushion and meditation pad in one. The seat folds into various configurations, so it's easy to find the right level of comfort for your posture. It also folds up neatly to be stored when not in use.
This pad is filled with new, untreated kapok. Kapok is a sustainable fiber harvested from trees and provides a padding that is firm and supportive.
This double-seamed meditation cushion is made responsibly and sustainably, within the framework of Thailand's OTOP Project.
Pros
Con
5. Most Color Options: Bean Products Zafu and Zabuton Meditation Cushion Set
This is a great product if you are looking for more color options. It is a great set for all meditation levels and styles and is perfect for people of every shape and size.
It provides a great seating height for the spine to be properly aligned with less stress on the knees, hips, ankles, and lower back. This Bean Products Zafu and Zabuton Meditation Cushion Set enables the user to have longer and more comfortable and effective meditation sessions.
This set comes in two sizes: 14 inches round and 18 inches oval. Made from eco-friendly cotton and filled with cotton batting, this is a great set to use on a regular basis.
Pros
Cons
6. Most Eco-Friendly Meditation Cushion Set: Leewadee Meditation Set: Zafu Cushion, Zabuton Mat
This aesthetically pleasing set is comfortable, durable, and breathable. It uses only natural materials in order to be the user’s perfect companion for long meditative hours.
This Leewadee Meditation Set: Zafu Cushion, Zabuton Mat is filled with kapok, making it solid and comfortable so the user is able to relax while being supported.
It has double-stitched seams to ensure its extra-long durability, and a premium covering that comes in a traditional Thai design.
This is a handmade product that comes in many different colors so you can pick the one that fits your current decor the best.
Pros
Cons
7. Best Meditation Chair: Serenity Meditation Chair
The Serenity Meditation Chair is more than a meditation cushion; it's a beautiful addition to your home décor.
This special chair is specifically designed for cross-legged sitting, with a distinctive shape and This chair has a tall back and a generous seat that provides ergonomic support and comfort when sitting cross-legged.
The thick cushion is filled with sustainable kapok, for firm support that conforms naturally to the body.
The cushion has a natural cotton cover that is machine washable, and the chair base is made from beautiful, earth-friendly rattan.
It's durable enough for everyday use, and is an ergonomic, comfortable meditation chair, or can simply be used for lounging.
The Serenity Meditation Chair measures 30 x 27 x 19.5 inches, with a seat height of 8 inches. It has a weight of 25 pounds.
Pros
Cons
Final Thoughts on the Best Meditation Cushion Sets
The best overall option is the Halfmoon Sit Set: Mod Meditation Cushion + Zabuton. This set is great for any budget, and is comfortable for users of all sizes.
This set easily molds to your body and provides you with great support and comfort during your meditation sessions. It will likely be the best option for you if you are new to meditation and you want to get a product that is likely to fit your needs.
This meditation cushion set is great for anyone who wants to be able to spend their meditation time in deep thought rather than focusing on their comfort.
And if you're looking for more articles on mindfulness and meditation, be sure to check out these blog posts:
- When Is the Best Time of Day to Meditate? A Simple Guide
- 14 Best Gifts for Meditation Lovers
- 11 Best Meditation Books for Beginners
Finally, if you want a simple way to reduce your stress and anxiety, then try writing these 35 mindfulness journaling prompts to live more in the present moment.
