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Zafu and Zabuton sets make your meditation practice far more comfortable and effective. Combine with singing bowls, healing Chakra crystals and Japanese incense to enhance your experience!
What is a Zafu Meditation Cushion?
A Zafu is a round cushion, a very common item in Japanese life. It is also used quite a bit for zen meditation practices.
What is a Zabuton sitting mat?
It’s a Japanese cushion, usually placed on the floor and commonly used with a Zafu Meditation Cushion for meditation. Zabutons are common and used daily in some households for sitting on the ground. For meditation purposes, the zabuton protects and cushions the knees and ankles.
Why use a Zafu and Zabuton set?
A Zafu and Zabuton set can really help with your posture during your meditation practice. When sitting for long periods of time, your back can start to ache without the sufficient back support a regular chair with a back would supply.
The lotus position is one of the most popular and well-known positions in meditation. In the lotus position, you sit on a firm surface with your back straight and your legs crossed in the Indian style.
You might think that you don’t really need a dedicated meditation cushion. You might even try using any pillows or sofa cushion lying around your house for mediation. However, if you are looking to meditate as a regular practice, properly and for longer periods of time, meditation cushions are worth the investment. Not only will these tools help you to achieve your desired comfort level, but they can help you attain the perfect posture for your unique body shape.
How to use a Zafu and Zabuton Set
When using a Zafu and Zabuton set, first place the Zabuton cushion on the floor. When in the lotus position you can tuck the Zafu pillow under your tush or sit on your knees with the Zafu pillow tucked between your legs
When it comes to Meditation, there are two important factors that might affect your experience – the ‘‘posture of the body’ and the ‘level of comfort’. Therefore, it’s important that you maintain the balance of your body while entering into the state of meditation.
It’s like finding the perfect set of tools for your workstation or the perfect chair for your workstation. For meditation, the zafu cushion and zabuton set is the best solution for your posture and comfort.
What is the proper posture while using the Zafu and Zabuton Cushions?
When you meditate, you seriously need to be aware of your body alignment. The lower back, the middle section of the spine and the upper back must be aligned with the neck and head if you if you don’t want to experience ache and soreness. Zafu and Zabuton Cushions help you to achieve your ideal body alignment.
The lotus position is the famous meditation position, used since ancient times. However you’ll find all sorts of ‘postures’ or ‘ashanas’ from the all conventional full-lotus position to half-lotus, sitting on chairs, kneeling and even lying down (I thought you weren’t supposed to lay down during meditation!).
The various types of meditation positions often depend on the flexibility of your body. Not everyone can effortlessly sit in a full-lotus position. You certainly don’t need to push yourself into a full-lotus position if your body is not flexible enough but the magic of cushions and mats is that they can help you get into your comfort zone without any trouble.
Materials used for Zafu and Zabuton Meditation Cushions
With many zafu and zabuton pieces, you’ll find a traditional cotton-like material known as ‘Kapok’, with a thick and solid foundation within the zafu cover. Kapok has being used for meditation cushions for quite some time now.
Kapok is a well-known cushion and mat material dating back to the earliest recorded histories of meditation. It’s a plant fiber, and it’s pretty soft and squishy.
There is also a material known as ‘Hulls’ or ‘Buckwheat Hulls’ with a more weighty and stable foundation. This material has gained popularity in recent years with its ability to conform to the body.
Meditation Tools
There are numerous kinds of cushions and mats available for meditation. There are traditional round zafu cushions to square shaped ones, crescent or fortune cookie shaped cushion with various materials and color combinations.
You might also opt for meditation chairs (usually made of wood), meditation benches, foam cushions, yoga mats, or other massage mats for lying positions.
Zafu and Zabuton Set Product Reviews
Bean Products – Zafu and Zabuton Meditation Set – BEST OVERALL PICK
This zafu and zabuton set from Bean Products is a premium product that is super comfortable! It’s made in the USA and you can find it in two sizes – 14 inches and 18 inches with a plethora of color choices. For little ole’ me, the 14 inches model was ideal. The outer cover of this zafu and zabuton set is made of 100 percent cotton, which is super comfy. The insides of the cushion and mat are made of Buckwheat Hulls.
This thick and squishy zabuton mat feels pretty good on the knees. Cleaning the zafu and the zabuton is pretty easy thanks to the cotton fabric. You can try almost every position and maintain your posture easily on top of this mat and cushion combo.
This zafu and zabuton set from Bean Products is the best overall pick because of it’s quality, sleek design with plenty of color selections to match any room, and standard and XL large style options. Most importantly, it keeps you comfortable and supported during your meditation product.
Web Linens- Black/Gray Zabuton Zafu – BEST VALUE
Looking for a fluffy, super thick zafu and zabuton set? You’ve hit the jackpot with this one! The zafu cushion in this set of meditation tools is square rather than those traditional round-shaped ones and is perfectly sized for my little tushie.
The Zabuton mat is measured at 36 x 28 x 3. It’s a stylish little combo with its black and gray color combo. The Zafu cushion is overfilled but it isn’t overly soft because of all the filling inside.
You can even use this set to just watch TV and leisurely read a book. It’s easy to doze off on this little meditation set! This stylish set is a great multipurpose tool. It’s a great product that doesnt break the bank
Boon Decor Meditation Cushion Set – BEST PREMIUM PICK
This next set from Boon Decor includes a crescent –shaped Zafu cushion and premium material with a rich and intricate design.
This set of meditation tools is the most expensive item on our list today. However, there are many meditation enthusiasts who value quality over price.
The outer cover of the Zafu and Zabuton pieces are made up of lavish silkscreen on silk material with a hand-stitched design. Also, a carrying handle is attached for easy transport. The workmanship of this package is pretty breathtaking. The Zafu is filled with Buckwheat Hulls while the thick Zabuton is filled with the traditional Kapok materials.
This set of meditation tools is one of the best products in terms of design and quality. It’s a super luxe and comfortable tool that can help with meditation considerably. If this set is in your price range, make sure to grab it!
Leewadee – Meditation Set
If you are looking for a functional and ample-sized meditation set, then this meditation set is a great pick. It includes a conventional round-shaped zafu cushion and a large, quilted mat. This is a hand-made meditation set!
I love the soothing feeling of the linen material used for the cushion and mat covers. This set from Leewadee is filled with Kapok. It’s also double stitched for durability.
If you prefer the half lotus or kneeling position, then this is a great pick. The zabuton mat will support your knees. The dimensions of this zabuton mat are 30x28x10.
Sun and Moon Originals – Deluxe Zafu & Zabuton
I love the classy design of this meditation set from Sun and Moon Originals. It comes in a variety of colors and would look luxe in any home.
This zafu and zabuton set is made in Massachusetts and both pieces feel super soft to the touch. What’s super awesome is that the outer casing can easily be removed and washed. Just pop them into the washing machine and they’ll quickly become good as new.
Also, you can choose your filling material! Both Kapok and Buckwheat Hulls are available for your filling options. When it comes to comfort, this high-quality and eco-friendly set is a great pick! Loved the thickness of the material and with the Kapok filling it’s a lightweight set.
Leewadee – Printed Meditation Set
This meditation set from Leewadee weighs in at a sturdy 11 pounds! It’s not super portable but I loved the feel of the linen cover material. As for the filling, Leewadee hand-fills it with the traditional Kapok rather than more popular Buckwheat Hulls filling.
It can fit pretty well into any space. Unfortunately, the cover material is stitched on so it’s not washing machine friendly. You might need to use an extra cover on top of the cushions and the mat in order to keep it clean.
Peach Blossom Yoga – 7 Piece Restorative Yoga Set
Wouldn’t it be great if you could bring your meditation tools with you everywhere? Peach Blossom Yoga brings us this portable and on-the-go Zafu and Zabuton set. The set includes a Zafu cushion, a Zabuton mat, with an outer strap on the outside of the Zabuton which is foldable. The zafu cushion is filled with popular material of Buckwheat Hulls for the ultimate stability
The zabuton mat is filled with foam and it’s measurements are 26.5″ x 26.5″ x 1.75″. The strap on the Zabuton mat is quite sturdy. It’s super easy to grab and go. The outer cover of the Zafu and Zabuton mat are made of cotton and polyester. These covers can be removed and are washing machine friendly.
The Peach Blossom set is great for someone who travels a lot and is fully dedicated to their meditation practice.
Peach Blossom Yoga – 7 Piece Restorative Yoga Set
Are you some new to the world of meditation? Do you want all the basic tools to bring your meditation to the next level? This second set from Peach Blossom Yoga includes seven total accessories – perfect for the beginner.
This is a great starter set which includes, a Zafu cushion, a Zabuton mat, neck bolster, eye pillow, back bolster, soy candle, and a Zafu pillow. This entire set is made in the USA with plenty of quality control. The covers of these meditation tools are made of a mix of cotton and polyester. You can remove the covers easily with the zipper pull and wash them easily
All these meditation tools might seem somewhat unnecessary but once you start using them you’ll wonder how you lived without them.
Awaken – Crescent Zafu and Zabuton Set
This meditation set switches it up with crescent-shaped pillows (Some call it fortune cookie shaped!) This set from Awaken Higher Self includes three pieces: a Zafu cushion, a Zabuton mat, and a specially designed shoulder strap to transport the Zabuton. The covers of the cushion and mat are made of pure cotton. These are easily machine washed.
The fabrics for this product were sourced directly from agricultural farmers. The pieces of this meditation set are filled with natural foam, while the zafu cushion is filled with Buckwheat Hulls. The covers are colored with eco-friendly dyes,
If you find it difficult to practice meditation on round-shaped or square-shaped cushions, then this specially designed zafu cushion is a possible solution. Some customers thought that the Zafu cushion felt a bit high but you can remove some of the filling to adjust the height.
This is one of the finer quality of meditation tools of the bunch. It’s a bit pricier compared to other packages but it can offer lots of value for its price point.
D&D Futon Furniture – Zabuton Zafu Set
The set includes a square-shaped zafu cushion and a 3-inch thick zabuton mat. There are many color combinations available. The outer material is a mixture of cotton and polyester, which is quite nice and smooth to the touch. The fillings of both the zafu cushion and the zabuton mat are filled with cotton and fiber. The ratio of the cotton to fiber is 95% to 5%.
Due to the cotton padding the Zafu cushion and the Zabuton mat are quite firm in nature. However, this isn’t disruptive for longer meditation sessions. However, if you are used to softer Kapok materials than this particular Zafu and Zabuton set might not be your cup of tea. On the other hand, if you are looking a durable set with a firm foundation, then you’ve found it.
Beginner’s Guide to Meditation ~ Learn To Meditate in 5 Easy Steps
Love this video from Eric Bartel, it’s a great guide to getting started with meditation!
There are numerous health benefits with meditating and guess what? With just 5 minutes a day you can enjoy increased health, a happier life, and a greater sense of well-being.
Step #5: Observe without judgment
During a breathing meditation like this, you might find that you mind wanders a lot. That’s ok, it’s totally natural. You might also find yourself judging the sensations that you observe. If you do notice your mind wandering and making these judgments, simply come off this thought pattern and shift your attention right back to your breathing.
With practice, this will become easier and easier to do and you will reap the full benefits of meditation.
Pat your self on the back for taking the matters into your own health and taking charge of your health and well-being. You’ve already taken the first steps to becoming healthier and happier!
Remember to be consistent with your practice and you will be amazed at the fully tangible benefits of meditation.
