Today the use of meditation cushions is popular and widespread, however such a thing would been unusual to an ancient Buddhist monk. In traditional Tibetan and Zen Buddhism it was not uncommon for monks to replace their mat or cushion only when it was entirely worn out, there is a tale of a Tibetan Buddhist who ended up with calluses from his meditation. Monks in many Zen monasteries meditate on hard surfaces for as long as they can tolerate it.

However many people today prefer to use a meditation cushion to create a more relaxed and more fulfilling experience. The proper name of a meditation cushion is a zafu, and they are available in all sorts of colors, shapes and sizes.

Many meditation cushions featured a raise back to promote the correct posture as well as spine lengthening. With the proper posture in place one can breathe more deeply and gain an increased range of motion and elasticity. The backing also allows for you to position your knees in whatever way is most comfortable for the meditation. As meditation is a practice one can continue for a lifetime it’s essential to learn how to sit both correctly and in a comfortable manner.

If the spine is crooked it can interrupt one’s attempt to reach the deepest level of meditation. It’s important that energy is able to flow freely through the body while you meditate, a good meditation cushion can straighten your physical alignment in order to aid your spiritual one.

In addition to a meditation cushion you can also use something called a zabuton, this is a mat which is placed beneath the cushion and is used to support the knees.

A meditation cushion can even be used for other purposes. Meditation cushions are extremely versatile, for example one could be used as cushioning for a hard, uncomfortable chair. Otherwise you can use them as just another seating option in your home, or even as a pet seat!