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The 9 Best Meditation Cushions to Find Your Inner Zen

Say goodbye to lumpy cushions so you can meditate in peace

Verywell Health / Kristin Kempa

Meditation practices have become increasingly popular in recent years, and there are a number of ways to do it. Meditators can focus on their breath, repeat a mantra, or concentrate on a given object—all with the aim of attaining a clear, conscious mental state. Since meditation programs have been linked to many benefits, including reduced anxiety, reduced symptoms of depression, and a decrease in chronic pain, it’s no surprise that so many people have been tempted to try them.

Most meditation programs call for people to sit down—often with their legs crossed on the floor. This position can be uncomfortable to hold for extended periods of time, which is why meditation cushions can add an entirely new layer of comfort to your meditation practice. Take your pick of a Zafu- or Zabuton- style cushion, to elevate the hips or cushion the knees, respectively. While the height and shape of Zabuton cushions are relatively universal, Zafu pillows offer a wider variety of options. Also, consider if portability features and washability matter to you.

We've sorted through the many meditation cushions on the market today to bring you the top nine picks based on quality, comfort, and ease of cleaning.

• What to Look For
• Why Trust Us

Best Overall

Florensi meditation cushion.

Soft velvet exterior

Durable buckwheat interior

Easy to clean

Only one size option

The Florensi cushion is a classic meditation cushion that meets the needs of most meditators. It's filled entirely with buckwheat hulls, resulting in a pillow that’s soft but sturdy—comfortable enough to sit on while you meditate, but robust enough to endure use over time. The buckwheat is wrapped in a soft velvet cover, which is both removable and machine-washable, making it incredibly easy to clean.

Dimensions are a major consideration when shopping for meditation cushions since you need a pillow that’s big enough to support you comfortably. This one boasts a 16-inch diameter and a 5-inch height, making it a relatively wide and tall pillow. This means it’s large enough to accommodate a range of people of all shapes and sizes, making it a particularly versatile pick. 

Key Features

Size Options: 16 L x 16 W inches | Fill Material: Buckwheat hulls | Cover Material: Velvet

Best Budget

Reehut zafu yoga meditation cushion.

Comes in three sizes

Easy to adjust

Too short for tall people

This meditation cushion offers everything you’d expect from an expensive pillow but at a reasonable price point. Like many meditation cushions, it's filled with buckwheat hulls, making the pillow supportive, comfortable, and durable.

The cushion also comes wrapped in a soft cotton cover, which you can easily unzip to access the pillow’s interior. Once you open it, you can adjust the amount of filling inside until the cushion is the exact height you want it to be.

The meditation cushion comes in three sizes—12 x 12 x 4.5 inches, 13 x 13 x 4.5 inches, and 16 x 16 x 4.5 inches—so you can pick the size that best meets your needs. It also comes with a built-in handle in case you want to make your meditation practice mobile.

Dimensions 12 x 12 x 4.5 inches, 13 x 13 x 4.5 inches, and 16 x 16 x 4.5 inches | Fill Material: Buckwheat hulls | Cover Material: Cotton

Best Classic Bolster

Hugger mugger standard yoga bolster standard yoga bolster.

Hugger Mugger

Durable material

This rectangular cushion is fit for use during yoga and meditation alike. The bolster cover is made from durable upholstery-grade fabric, making it a great option if you practice yoga and meditate frequently. Although we haven't personally tested all the cushions on this list, one of our editors loves this bolster for its sturdy support and long-lasting quality.

The pillow is large enough to comfortably sit or kneel on while you meditate, and if you practice yoga, you can use the bolster to supplement classic postures. Use it as a cozy substitute for a yoga block during supine twists, or lie on top of it during shavasana. We also love the many color and pattern options available.

Dimensions: 26.2 L x 10.8 W x 6.4 H inches | Fill Material: Cotton | Cover Material: Upholstery-grade cotton

Best Inflatable

Vcolan inflatable meditation cushion.

Fully inflatable

Doubles as a seat cushion

Less durable than others

Takes up a lot of space

Many meditation cushions are designed to be lightweight and portable, but the Vcolan Inflatable Meditation Cushion takes compact convenience to a new level. The cushion is entirely inflatable, so when you’re not using it, you can easily fold it up and stow it away—or toss it in your bag to carry with you for on-the-go meditation.

If you find you have a hard time sitting for long periods of time, this cushion also adds a bit of extra support for your lower back. We also love that it doubles as a mini seat cushion, perfect for anyone who prefers to sit on the floor. Be warned that there's a bit of a learning curve in terms of inflation (make sure you put the cover on before you inflate the cushion), but the versatility and comfort are well worth it.

Dimensions: 36 L x 27 W x 9 H inches | Fill Material: N/A| Cover Material: Cotton

Best Foldable

Intelligent design edelia pillow cushion.

Plush and comfortable

Multi-purpose

Easy to fold and adjust

Spot clean only

Less supportive than others

There are two primary kinds of meditation cushions—Zafu pillows, which are small cushions that elevate your hips while you practice, and Zabuton cushions, which are rectangular mats that give your knees a comfortable place to rest while you meditate.

This large, rectangular pillow from Intelligent Design is easy to fold, providing you with the customized support you need for a truly comfortable meditation practice. A stack of shorter folds can mimic a bolster while a lack of folds leaves you with a plush mat that's perfect for meditation, deep stretching, and lounging.

In its unfolded form, the 100 percent chenille cushion measures 74 inches long, 27 inches wide, and 3 inches tall. This is large enough to comfortably accommodate many people. But if you decide you want a taller bolster and you don’t mind a smaller mat, you can simply fold the cushion until it better suits your needs. This flexibility makes it a particularly versatile pick.

Dimensions: 74 L x 27 W inches | Fill Material: Polyester | Cover Material: Chenille

Best for Travel

Xtreme comforts orthopedic memory foam seat.

Made with memory foam

Money-back guarantee

Not as stylish as others

This cozy cushion is worth pulling out any time you need a little extra comfort. It's an obvious pick for meditation, but you can just as easily use it to add cushioning to seats in cars, on trains, on airplanes, and more.

The cushion’s U-shaped seat alleviates pressure on your tailbone, giving it a place to “float” while the rest of your body sinks into the pillow. Meanwhile, durable memory foam contours to the rest of your body each time you sit on it.

It comes with a breathable mesh cover, which you can easily remove and toss in the washing machine any time you need to clean it. The cover is just as durable as the rest of the cushion, and it comes equipped with a non-slip bottom, so you don’t have to worry about sliding out of place while you meditate.

Backed by a money-back guarantee, you can return it within two years to receive a full refund—no questions asked.

Dimensions: 17.9 L x 14 W x 0.1 H inches | Fill Material: Memory Foam | Cover Material: Mesh

Best for Back Pain

Hugger mugger v-shaped cushion.

Supports proper meditation posture

Lacks an inner lining

While many meditation cushions are round or rectangular, this one boasts a V-shaped design that elevates your hips while you meditate, making it easier to maintain proper posture during your practice. At its highest point, the cushion is 9 inches tall. Simply sit on its peak at the apex of the V, cross your legs, and let your thighs drape down the sides of the cushion. (You should be able to sit up straight without too much effort and less discomfort in your thighs, knees, and ankles.

If 9 inches sounds intimidating or uncomfortable, no need to worry. The cushion zips open and closed, giving you easy access to its buckwheat hull filling. Simply open it and remove some of the hulls to adjust the cushion’s dimensions to your liking.

Dimensions: ‎24 x 6 x 6 inches | Fill Material: Buckwheat hulls | Cover Material: Polyester

Best for Bad Knees

Zafustore zafu and zabuton meditation cushion set.

Two-in-one solution

Attracts lots of lint

This two-piece meditation cushion set will help make your entire practice more comfortable. Each set comes with a round Zafu cushion, which is 7 inches tall and 14 inches in diameter, and a rectangular Zabuton mat, which is 30 inches long and 28 inches wide. The cushion elevates your hips, helping you maintain proper posture as you meditate, while the mat offers your knees a soft, cushioned place to rest as you cross your legs.

The Zafu cushion is filled with buckwheat hulls, making it both comfortable and supportive. Since buckwheat is a durable material, the cushion holds its shape over time. The Zabuton mat is filled with an equally soft and resilient material called kapok, which is a natural fiber similar to cotton.

The Zafu cushion also comes with a built-in handle, allowing you to tote it around easily no matter where your meditation practice takes you. The Zabuton mat comes with a removable cover, which you can conveniently machine wash any time you need to clean it. 

Dimensions: |13 Diameter x 7 H (Zafu), 30 L x 28 W inches (Zabuton) Fill Material: Buckwheat hulls | Cover Material: Cotton

Most Stylish

Cb2 sedona small zafu pillow.

Comfortable

Too small for tall people

Not adjustable

Crafted from luxurious white linen, the Sedona Small Zafu Pillow is sure to fit seamlessly into your decor scheme and look great in any room of your home. But style isn’t the only thing this cushion does well. At 6 inches tall and 16 inches in diameter, this Zafu pillow promises to make a comfortable addition to your meditation practice. Since it’s filled entirely with buckwheat hulls, you can rest assured knowing it’s exactly as cozy and supportive as it looks.

The cushion doesn’t seem to be adjustable, though, so you can’t remove scoops of buckwheat filling to alter its dimensions. The pillow is also spot-clean-only, making it slightly inconvenient to clean. But these downsides are minor ones, considering its stylishness and functionality.

Dimensions: 16 Diameter x 6 H inches | Fill Material: Buckwheat hulls | Cover Material: Linen

What to Look for in a Meditation Cushion

There are two primary kinds of meditation cushions: Zafu and Zabuton. Zafu cushions tend to be smaller and taller, and they’re designed to elevate your hips as you practice. Zabuton cushions are larger and shorter, and they can offer your knees a comfortable place to rest as you practice. You can decide which cushion you want based on your needs and preferences. You can also buy both pillows and pair them. 

Zafu meditation cushions come in an array of different heights, with many hovering around the 5-inch mark. Consider your height and preferences when choosing the height of your Zafu pillow. If you’re on the taller side, you may prefer a pillow that’s taller as well.

Zabuton cushions are almost always large rectangular mats. But Zafu cushions may be round, rectangular, or U-shaped. Round Zafu cushions are the classic style, and rectangular Zafu bolsters can be used during yoga, as well as meditation. U-shaped and V-shaped iterations are typically designed to elevate the hips, making them apt choices for preventing hip, knee, and back pain. 

Portability

Many meditation cushions come with a built-in handle, making it easy for you to bring them with you on the go. Some cushions are also inflatable or foldable, making them even more convenient to carry around and to store between uses.

Washability

Meditation cushions can be crafted from an array of soft fabrics, some of which are easier to wash than others. If you care about convenience and plan to clean your cushion regularly, look for options that are machine-washable. 

Frequently Asked Questions

When using a Zafu cushion, begin by positioning your bottom on the front half of the meditation pillow. This placement allows you to bring your legs forward comfortably, crossing them in front of you. Cross your legs in whichever order and at whatever angles feel good in your body to avoid tingling, numbness, and pain.

Next, wiggle from side to side a bit on the cushion to help your hips settle into a natural position. As you do so, tilt your pelvis forward slightly to straighten your spine. Lastly, complete a quick body scan to ensure that your hips, shoulders, and head are aligned properly. Remain in that tall-yet-relaxed position throughout the duration of your mediation practice.

A meditation cushion is an excellent tool for your regular meditation practice because of the support and comfort it can provide to your body. Most cushions lift your hips off the floor and give them room to roll forward slightly, which supports the natural curvature of your lumbar spine and relieves excess pressure in that space caused by poor posture.

A meditation cushion also makes it easier to sit in proper alignment for longer periods of time without discomfort, which is a common distraction during a meditation practice.

Meditation cushion size is a matter of personal preference. Typically, you want a seat that provides both stability and comfort from all angles so you don't feel as though you have to work too hard to balance on it. And taller individuals with longer legs usually prefer taller cushions so they have plenty of room to cross their legs in front of them and settle into their hips comfortably.

Why Trust Verywell Health?

As a seasoned health and fitness writer, Lindsey Lanquist understands how vital quality product recommendations can be. She is careful to recommend products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them. 

Goyal M, Singh S, Sibinga EMS, et al.  Meditation Programs for Psychological Stress and Well-Being: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis .  JAMA Intern Med . 2014;174(3):357-368. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2013.13018

Awake & Mindful

Yoga, meditation, life, 9 best travel meditation cushions & pillows.

Once you’ve built a daily meditation habit, you can feel “off” if you don’t have a chance to meditate. many meditators try their best not to take a day off from their practice, not even if they’re traveling. Keeping the habit up can be difficult with long flights, changing time zones, and changing locals. But sometimes meditation is even more essential while you’re traveling, helping to keep your stress levels down and keep you in touch with your breath. Many people struggle to meditate without props or cushions to keep them comfortable. Luckily there are travel meditation cushions and mats available that are compact, easy to pack in a suitcase, and still designed to add comfort to your practice. This article looks at travel cushions and pillows, as well as a few travel meditation mats and zabutons available.

Travel Meditation Cushions

Mobile meditator inflatable meditation cushion.

If you’re someone who likes to travel light or weight and space are at a premium in your suitcase, the Mobile Meditator may be exactly what you’re looking for. This is a crescent-shaped inflatable meditation cushion perfect for a sitting meditation. Inflatable cushions are great because you can easily adjust the height and firmness by how much you inflate them. What sets the Mobile Meditator apart from other inflatable meditation cushions is it had three separate inflatable air chambers. This allows you to more easily customize the firmness and height for different parts of your body: the center chamber changes spine support and pelvic tilt, the side chambers control hip and thigh support.

This travel cushion has a lot of great reviews on Amazon, and some users say the customizability of the cushion makes it their favorite to use at home as well. In addition to using it for meditating, some travelers have also inflated it to use as a pillow on their flight.

Dimensions: Maximum inflated size: 18″ wide x 6″ tallest height & 2″ lowest height (46 x 15 x 5cm). Weighs 13 oz. Compact travel size: 9″ x 9″ x 2″

Available Colors: black, purple, blue, hunter green, red

Air Meditator Inflatable Travel Meditation Cushion

Vertical Vitality has introduced another inflatable meditation cushion perfect for your practice on the go. Another crescent shape option, this cushion is easily inflated by mouth or with a pump. You can adjust the the level of support with more or less air. it features three different chambers that you can adjust independently. Once you have it inflated, the designed shape provides correct pelvic tilt for proper posture and comfortable meditation in lotus or burmese positions.

This cushion also comes with a carry case for easy storage in your bag or suitcase.

Maximum Size: 18″ wide, 7″ tall (rear), 2.5″ tall (front)

Available Colors: Gray, Black, Red, Purple

Zafuko Foldable Kapok Meditation Cushion

This option is less compact than the inflatable pillows, but it’s so versatile that it’s worth it if you have the space to take it with you. Zafuko designed this unique kapok-filled cushion to be foldable. That means you have two options to utilize it: either unfold it for a low to the ground cushion or leave it compact for a higher cushion or yoga bolster.

The kapok filling is firmer than cotton, which means it will fully support your body without sinking or molding. When you’re done practicing, fold it up and tie the ribbon to hold it closed. Then grab the handles and head on your way. The compact size when folded is perfect for taking to yoga class or even stowing in your suitcase for a meditation retreat.

Size: Open: 14.7″ x 16″ x 3″, Closed: 14.7″ x 8″ x 6″

Available Colors: blue horizon, blue/purple, cherry/peach, double green, green/violet, pink/ruby red, purple/fuscia, purple/red, red/yellow, teal/turquoise

Prajna Travel Meditation Cushion

If inflatable cusions aren’t your thing, but you want a compact zafu option, Prajna has the perfect pillow for you. This cushion is designed to be compact and light weight. The pillow has a wedge shape to support proper alignment while sitting for meditation. The removable cover is made from certified organic cotton and it’s filled with 100% natural buckwheat hulls which allows for firm support and air circulation to keep the pillow cool. You can even adjust the firmness of the cushion by removing some of the filling.

This Prajna comes with a carrying handle to make it easy to bring with you to yoga class or meditation retreats. It’s also compact enough to tuck into a suitcase or carry on bag when you travel.

Size: 15.75″ wide, 11.5″ deep, 2.35″ at the tallest

Available Colors: teal, black, gray, purple

Outdoor Self-Inflating Seat Cushion

So this cushion is not designed for meditation, but it’s a great multiuse option for hikers and campers. This self-inflating outdoor cushion is advertised for using on hard stadium seats, but it’s great for on concrete or rocks. It’s also insulated, so the cold surface won’t chill you. It’s also a great option for meditating if you’re looking for a pillow or cushion in a rectangular shape, rather than the crescent shape offered by other brands. This inflatable pillows is super affordable and also self-inflates so you don’t have to worry about blowing it up.

This cushion has a valve to adjust the firmness and it easily deflates and rolls up to store in a compact carry pouch. They are the perfect size for carry-on bags or backpackers. If you’re looking for a cushion that will work well for a kneeling meditation, this one is a good size to consider. It is smaller in width than the crescent inflatable cushions.

Comes in a set of two with a storage bag.

Dimensions: 16″ x 12″ x 1″ inflated

Available Colors: blue and green or blue and yellow

Memory Foam Meditation Cushion

This may not be what you had in mind when you started researching travel meditation cushions, but you should consider it. If you’re looking for a portable cushion option that is also ergonomic, the Zen Comfort is perfect for you. Made from cushioning memory foam, the Zen Comfort is meant for more uses than just meditation, but it’s absolutely fantastic for chair or floor meditations.The ergonomic design helps support your bottom and legs for a perfectly aligned lotus or Burmese position, or even just sitting with comfortably crossed legs.

While not the most compact cushion option, it easy to travel with you. You can carry it on a plane and then sit on it during the flight. It instantly turns an uncomfortable economy seat into a specialized ergonomic seat for a more comfortable flight.

Travel Meditation Mats

Even with a portable meditation cushion to aid your practice, you may still find many floors and other surfaces too hard to sit on comfortably. Zabutons are usually too bulky and tricky to pack, especially for flying or backpacking. Some people find travel yoga mats work well as a substitute, especially when folded up or rolled and placed strategically under the knees or feet. There are a few products on the market meant to address the challenge of a portable meditation mat. Some pair well with travel meditation cushions and one of our recommendations is its own set.

Mobile Meditator Travel Meditation Mat

This may just look like a yoga mat to you, but it was designed with a meditator in mind. It’s shorter in length than a standard yoga mat, meaning it saves on space and weight while providing a size that a meditator will appreciate. This is a dual surface mat, with a microfiber top and a non-slip cushioned bottom. While it has a good amount of cushion, it’s not going to be as comfortable as a fluffy zabuton. One of the big benefits of this mat is it keeps you off the ground or floor, especially if you’re meditating in public spaces.

Comes with a carry strap for extra portability. You can roll it or fold it to store easily in your luggage or bag. It’s also machine washable. This pairs well with the Mobile Meditator inflatable cushion, creating a secure, non-slip combination. Watch out if you have a cat though, apparently they love to use it as a scratch pad, so keep it out of reach of your kitty.

Dimensions: 26″ x 36″ x 3.5 mm thick, weighs 13 oz.

Available Colors: turquoise, purple

ZENGO Inflatable Zafu & Zabuton Set

This is the most compact travel option for a meditation who wants a full zafu and zabuton set to use on the go. ZenGo sells a set of inflatable meditation cushions that recreats the experience of using a cushion set. It comes with two pieces: one for sitting and the other to support the feet and ankles. These cushions can also be used as yoga bolsters. Because you inflate each piece separately you can easily customize each cushion for firmness and height.

The design is perfect for use for a variety of sitting meditation postures , including cross-legged, Burmese, quarter lotus, and half lotus.

When deflated both cushions fit inside of a 4.5″ x 8.5″ drawstring bag. It also comes with an inflater and charging cord so you can easily inflate your cushions when you’re ready to practice. The inflator is battery powered so you can meditate anywhere.

Dimensions: Low Seat Size: Zafu is 30″ wide by 7″ high by 13″ deep. Zabuton is 30″ wide by 3.5″ high, by 13″ deep High Seat Size: Zafu is 30″ wide by 9″ high by 13″ deep. Zabuton is 30″ wide by 3.5″ high, by 13″ deep

Available Colors: blue/gray

Agsnilove Travel Zafu & Zabuton Mat Set

If space isn’t at a premium for you when you travel, or you’re just looking for a zafu and zabuton set that’s portable enough to take with you to class or group meditations, then this is the set for you. (This is also a great option if you don’t have a lot of storage space at home). This full-size meditation cushion set includes a folding zabuton cushion and a rectangular zafu cushion. The zafu has a wedge shape to encourage proper spine alignment while sitting. Featuring a washable linen cover, the cushions are stuffed with natural coconut fiber which keeps the cushions breathable and cool even when sitting for long meditations.

This set also comes with a carrying bag to make it easy to carry and store. While this is not a great option for people who are flying, if you’re taking a road trip this set will easily fit in your trunk with your luggage. This set can also work as yoga bolsters, making it perfect for yogis who meditate.

Dimensions: zabuton open: 23.62″ wide by 23.62 inches deep by 1.77″ high, zafu: 17.22″ wide by 9.06″ deep by 1.97″ to 3.15″ tall

Available Colors: gray, coffee, brown

Looking for more portable meditation supplies for travelers? Check out these folding and travel meditation benches and travel yoga mats .

10 Best Meditation Pillows to Enhance Your Mindfulness Practice

Get your Om on with these supportive, comfortable cushions designed for meditation.

We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. Why Trust Us?

We updated this article in October 2022 to add more information about each featured product, based on extensive research done by our team.

The best meditation pillows do so much more than help you get in the zen zone. They can facilitate proper posture, keep your legs comfortable, and make longer periods of sitting possible—meaning they’re just as good for mindfulness as they are for working from home.

Meet the Experts: Joanna Rajendran, a meditation expert and yoga instructor; Jamie Fleming, founder of Black Mom’s Guide to Calm, to find the best meditation pillows.

With a cushion beneath you, you’ll focus less on your tight hips (or your to-do list) and more on relaxing your mind. We’re sharing meditation pillows that cushion your bottom, help support your back , and make your meditation practice more comfortable. And we found options for every price point, so you’re bound to find something you’ll love without breaking the bank.

Our top picks

Best Overall Pillow

Brentwood home crystal cove meditation cushion.

Best Value Pillow

Reehut zafu meditation bolster.

Best Large Pillow

Meditation cushion.

Now that you’re ready to quiet your mind, shop these top-rated meditation pillows that’ll keep you comfortable during your practice, no matter your experience level.

With hundreds of five-star reviews and a cult following, this buckwheat-filled cushion from Brentwood Home is ideal for most meditators. Designed by Los Angeles yoga instructor Angela Kukhahn, the pillow is dense enough to support proper posture, but soft enough for hours of sitting . The outer cover is machine-washable, too.

Meditation pillows and sets can run you well over $100, but this buckwheat-filled option costs less than a third of that—not that you’d notice. With three sizes and four color options, it’s also quite versatile . “It’s filled just the right amount and my spine gets so aligned,” one Amazon reviewer says. “I’d even bring it on a plane.”

Florensi’s buckwheat-filled option is 16 inches in diameter, meaning it’ll fit sit bones of any size . It’s also encased in a luxe velvet cover with a carrying strap, making it convenient to tote to a class.

Yoga Meditation Pillow

Crescent pillows leave more room for your legs, allowing for a deeper stretch and more flexibility in the hips . This top-rated, buckwheat-filled option comes in six unique colors, each with an embroidered design on top.

Bean Products Meditation Set

With both a zafu cushion and a zabuton mat, this set has everything you’ll need for both beginner and advanced meditation. “This zabuton is the perfect thickness and density to give my knees and ankles the support they need,” says one Etsy reviewer, who had previously bought two other mats. “I am so happy with this set!”

Gaiam Yoga Bolster Long Meditation Pillow Cushion in Black

The rectangular bolster is a tried-and-true option, according to Rajendran, and has the benefit of being both reliable and affordable . “This style offers a sturdy support for the back, keeps its shape, and can double as a prop in yoga. Its microfiber cover is machine washable. It’s also good for all sizes as both my 10-year-old daughter and my 6’4” husband use it comfortably.”

Hugger Mugger Zafu Yoga Meditation Cushion

This round pillow is a bit on the pricier side, but is well made. It comes with 100% buckwheat filling (which means it will keep its shape longer) and there is a zipper that will allow you to add or remove the buckwheat to reach your optimum firmness. “It keeps its shape without flattening in the center. The cover is soft and can also be thrown in the wash,” Rajendran says. “Its simple and attractive design is so cute that there’s no reason to put it away after you meditate.”

Xtreme Comforts Seat Cushion

Made using memory foam and ergonomic design with coccyx support in mind , the Xtream Comforts Ortho-Seat provides incomparable comfort, according to Rajendran. “If someone has specific issues sitting (i.e. joint issues, pregnancy, sciatica, etcetera.), this is worth a shot as keeping the uniform seat will offer the most correct orthopedic alignment,” she says. “If you’re the person who always looks for the cool side of the pillow, this might be for you.”

Mobile Meditator Inflatable Meditation Cushion and Travel Pillow in Maroon

If you’re someone who likes to meditate on the go, you might benefit from the compact nature of the Meditator Inflatable Meditation Cushion and Travel Pillow. “ The size is customizable. and it can be washed with a mild detergent and a soft cloth ,” Rajendran says of the 15-oz. pillow. “Why not bring your meditation practice with you?”

Sage Meditation Zafu and Zabuton Meditation Cushion Set

For the ultimate meditation setup, Rajendran says this is her top pick. The $130 set includes the traditional Zafu (the round-shaped meditation cushion) that sits on top of the rectangular Zabuton. “The addition of the Zabuton offers extra comfort for the stretched-out legs while seated on the Zafu,” she says. “For the Zafu, you can select your filling; either kapok or buckwheat. The Zabuton is filled with kapok.” Rajendran says this set is comfortable, washable, and durable . “I especially love this for someone who either has or is looking to create a personal meditation space at home.”

How to choose the best meditation pillow

Choose the right fill. Most meditation pillows are stuffed with buckwheat, a traditional filling that’s eco-friendly, comfortable, and durable. Best of all, you can take out or add buckwheat hulls to adjust the height and density of your cushion. It can be heavy, though, so if you’re planning on moving your zafu around or taking it to a studio, a cotton-filled option might be more your speed—just be aware that cotton tends to lose its shape more quickly than buckwheat.

Be mindful of height. The most important feature to consider in a meditation pillow is its height since you want to feel supported throughout long periods of sitting. If you have shorter legs, choose a shorter pillow; longer legs, meanwhile, require a bit more height to cross comfortably. Fleming also recommends choosing a taller pillow if you’re not very flexible and a shorter pillow if you’re able to stretch more deeply.

Look for the ideal shape (and extras). Beyond height, shape also affects your meditation practice; crescent-shaped pillows, for example, provide more room for your legs, which can be useful for flexible meditators. Larger cushions work best for people with wider sit bones. And some meditation pillows also come with a zabuton, or a mat to place beneath the zafu, which adds an extra layer of comfort or warmth on top of the ground.

What is a meditation pillow?

A meditation pillow, also known as a zafu, provides optimal support for sitting or kneeling while practicing. “Overall, they can help make the meditative experience more comfortable, which can be especially helpful for those who are just getting started,” says Fleming.

A meditation pillow can also help improve your posture while sitting and allow you to meditate for longer periods of time. “They help relieve pressure on your joints,” explains Fleming. “They’re also helpful if you deal with back pain or if you’re not very flexible.”

How do I use a meditation cushion?

There are two main places to sit cross-legged on a zafu, Fleming says. The first is at the center, keeping your knees above or on the pillow; the second is at the edge, allowing your knees to rest on or near the floor. With time, you’ll find the position that works best for you.“To meditate, sit tall, relax your shoulders, and bring your palms to face up or down on your legs,” Fleming recommends. “Close your eyes or focus on a non-moving object. And, of course, play around with different positions to find what works best for you.” After that, do your best to clear your mind (or follow the guidance of an app).

How we chose

We spoke with Joanna Rajendran, a meditation expert and yoga instructor; Jamie Fleming, founder of Black Mom’s Guide to Calm; combed through countless online reviews, and tried a few products ourselves to find the best meditation pillows available.

Why trust us

For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.

Jake Smith, an editorial fellow at Prevention, recently graduated from Syracuse University with a degree in magazine journalism and just started going to the gym. Let's be honest—he's probably scrolling through Twitter right now.

Lauren Wellbank is a freelance writer based in the Lehigh Valley region of Pennsylvania. Her work has appeared in The Washington Post, Huffington Post, Martha Stewart Living, and more. She has three small children, a husband, and an over eager dog at home. When she's not writing she likes to work in her garden with her family.

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It's not always easy to close your eyes, quiet the inner workings of the mind, and focus on your breathing, but with enough practice, it can get a little easier each time.

Shop the Best Meditation Cushions

Expert Pick

Walden mediation cushion + mat set.

Best Weighted Cushion

Quiet mind the original weighted pillow in large.

Best Cushion with Crystals

Sunday citizen crystal meditation pillow.

Best for Reclined Meditation

Alo yoga mindful meditation bolster.

Best Eco-Friendly

Manduka enlight meditation cushion.

Halfmoon Round Meditation Cushion

Best Organic

Avocado mattress organic yoga meditation pillow.

Best for Knees

Gaiam yoga bolster rectangular meditation pillow.

Best Square

Avocado mattress organic square meditation yoga pillow.

While you may feel tempted to just grab a throw pillow from your bedroom, the right kind of support is important for any meditation session. According to Sage + Sound's co-founder and co-CEO Lacey Tisch , buckwheat-filled cushions are among the sturdiest and most dependable options to use.

"There are many advantages to using buckwheat cushions, especially during meditation practice. The buckwheat makes each cushion very moldable to the body, supporting posture and alleviating pain and discomfort particularly around the head and neck areas. Buckwheat cushions are also naturally hypoallergenic, making them the ideal choice for people with allergies or asthma." Experts say that with proper maintenance, these staples can last anywhere between 10 to 20 years.

To help you find the perfect match for your wellness needs, we've rounded up the best meditation cushions that provide maximum support and stability, from popular brands like Alo , Manduka , and more.

Related: The Best Sound Machines for a Restful Night's Sleep

Tisch notes that this anti-microbial cushion and mat set is a must-have for practices at Sage + Sound. "Their cushions and mats are moisture-resistant and long-lasting," she notes of the brand's buckwheat-filled seats. "They also have gel-infused memory foam for utmost comfort during meditation."

One satisfied customer writes: "I am using my meditation cushion and mat daily, absolutely love the product. It is very well-made, extremely comfortable, and looks high-end." — Olga D.

Similar to that of a weighted blanket, this weighted cushion—featuring recycled glass beads for weight—provides the perfect cushy seat during meditation. You can also give it a nice squeeze to relieve stress and anxiety when you're not practicing.

One satisfied customer writes: "I love my pillow so much. The fabric feels lovely and the weight of it is perfect. It's exactly what you expecting, amazing to ground down with." — Marie S.

Anyone who relies on the healing power of crystals will get plenty of use out of this meditation pillow from Sunday Citizen. In addition to buckwheat, it's filled with amethyst and clear crystals to channel ultimate woosah .

One satisfied customer writes: "I've always tried to meditate but this pillow beckons and invites me to do so! NIce and soft and love that it's portable with handle. Great purchase!" — Mary

Here's a firm cushion from Alo that seamlessly blends in with the rest of your workout gear. It features a versatile, waxed canvas finish and buckwheat fill that helps expertly support your back as you relax.

One satisfied customer writes: "Love my new bolster. So comfortable in my restorative practice. It gives nice support in poses. Love the color. I also purchased the performance no sweat towel in black which I put on top of the bolster." — Marie M.

You can nicely toss the cover of this lightweight cushion from Manduka into the washing machine (which comes in three additional colors). It's also bolstered by an odor-resistant interior wool pillow that keeps its shape no matter how often you meditate.

Since this half moon-shaped option contains flexible buckwheat husks that make its shape adjustable, find a comfortable seating position to meditate in is a total breeze.

Just like the rest of Avocado's home offerings, this oval-shaped cushion has a cover made from GOTS organic certified cotton , and is designed with sustainability in mind.

One satisfied customer writes: "Looks and feels high quality. Appropriate size for keeping the spine elongated and comfy for long periods of sitting (in meditation or otherwise)." — Ryan G.

Here's an option with plenty of space to spread out on when you don't feel like sitting upright. Plus, since it's made with a cotton batting filing the cushion is extremely flexible, and designed with a handle that makes it easy to take from room to room.

One satisfied customer writes: "I use this every day. I lie back on it (seated on floor, legs extended) to open chest, and also meditate sitting on it. Comfortable and soft, keeps its shape. Also lightweight to bring to yoga class. I have a heavier, larger bolster that's not easy for me to carry along with my mat and all the other props I travel with. I haven't washed the cover yet. Great purchase so far." — Tobi in NC

You'll have plenty of room to sit cross-legged on this top-rated square-shaped pillow. Its buckwheat fill is covered with a cotton liner that seamlessly adjusts to your sitting position.

One satisfied customer writes: "Great meditation cushion. Able to fix to your own comfort. I expected it to be just like their sister company’s cushion but I actually like this one better. It’s a bit firmer and more supportive. Well done." — Lori A.

.css-1jvcbpx{font-family:NewParisTextBook,NewParisTextBook-roboto,NewParisTextBook-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;font-weight:normal;letter-spacing:-0.015rem;margin-bottom:0.625rem;margin-top:0.625rem;}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-1jvcbpx{font-size:2.25rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-1jvcbpx{font-size:2rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1jvcbpx{font-size:2.625rem;line-height:1.1;}}.css-1jvcbpx b,.css-1jvcbpx strong{font-family:inherit;font-weight:bold;}.css-1jvcbpx em,.css-1jvcbpx i{font-style:italic;font-family:inherit;} Meet the Experts

• Lacey Tisch is the co-founder and co-CEO of Sage + Sound in New York City.
• George MacPherson is the programming director at Sage + Sound in New York City.

What should I look for in one of the best meditation cushions?

When searching for your next cushion, professionals recommend keeping an eye out for those with firm support, an adjustable height, and the ability to fit your meditation position of choice. "Some people who are on-the-go may want to look for cushions with handles that make the pillows easy to carry," Zucker adds.

What's the best way to sit on a meditation cushion?

Experts say that the best position for meditation is whatever feels most comfortable for you for the duration of your practice. "Sitting cross-legged or with knees underneath helps to engage a straight spine and keep your pelvis tilted downward, making your body more aware and present," MacPherson says. "Rigid positions can interfere with the overall experience, especially for beginners. Posture and position are important, but comfort is key to experiencing wellness in the way that works best for our students."

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7 Best Meditation Cushion Sets (Our Review for 2024)

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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!

Table of Contents

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?

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.

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

Check Price Here

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.

• Matching attractive soft-touch microfiber suede covers
• Buckwheat hulls in the zafu help to support and protect your body while meditating
• Zafu has adjustable filling
• Zafu has machine washable cover
• Zabuton is spot-clean only

2. Runner-Up Option: ZafuStore Buckwheat Zafu and Zabuton Meditation Cushion Set

Check Price on Amazon!

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.

• Large enough for people of all sizes
• More comfortable than other meditation cushion sets
• Very high quality
• More expensive than other sets
• User has to re-fluff the pillows often
• Some people find they have to take out some filling in order for this to be comfortable

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.

• Comfortable, durable meditation cushion set
• Both cushions have inner zippered shells and removable covers
• Covers are machine washable
• Comes in attractive colors
• Fairly expensive

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.

• Versatile 2-in-1 design provides support in wide range of positions
• Filled with firm, comfortable, supportive kapok filling
• Responsibly and sustainably made
• Spot clean only

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.

• Has a thick canvas with secure stitching
• Comfortable for long meditation sessions
• Helps with good posture
• Budget-friendly
• Some find the zabuton to be a little thin
• These cushions are a bit flatter than others
• The colors depicted online are a bit different from those that come in the mail

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.

• Very pretty, and can be used as a decorative piece in any living area
• Made with a thick material so it is durable and will last a long time
• Flexible enough to mold to the body
• More expensive than other options
• Takes some time to break in, so it may be a bit uncomfortable at first
• Cannot be machine washed because it does not have a zippered outer cover

7. Best Meditation Chair: Serenity Meditation Chair

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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.

• Beautiful and supportive meditation chair
• Made from earth-friendly materials
• Specifically designed for ergonomic cross-legged sitting
• Machine washable cover
• Smaller than it looks in photos
• While Gaiam will accept returns on this product, they will not pay for return shipping, which can be expensive

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 .

The 11 Best Meditation Cushions To Support Your Spine and Take Pressure Off Your Hips While Sitting Cross-Legged

If you want to get the most out of your daily meditation practice, you might need more than just a private room and some peace and quiet. It’s also important that your body stays comfortably seated when you begin so that you can focus wholeheartedly on centering your thoughts and intentions. And for that, meditations cushions are an invaluable accessory to have in your quest to reach your higher self.

Unlike traditional pillows and blankets that you can also use, many meditation cushions are uniquely designed to support your body’s natural alignment and can take pressure off on your hips while sitting in the standard cross-legged meditative pose.

• 01 Types of meditation cushions
• 02 What to look for in a meditation cushion
• 03 Best meditation cushions
• Alexandra Plante , New Jersey-based yoga instructor
• Jessica Gershman , certified yoga instruction and founder of The Zen Mommy
• Kino MacGregor , international yoga teacher, and inspirational speaker
• Veronica Fernandez , Veronica Fernandez is a yoga and meditation teacher at The Lodge and Woodloch Spa and Resort in Pennsylvania.

Best meditation cushions at a glance

• Best budget: Florensi Meditation Cushion
• Best rectangular: Manduka Enlight Rectangular Bolster
• Best mat and bench: Mindful and Modern Meditation Bench Set
• Best sustainable: Brentwood Home Crystal Cove Oval Meditation Yoga Cushion
• Best extra-large: Bean Products Round Zafu & Zabuton Meditation Cushion Set
• Best ergonomic: Cushion Lab Mindful Meditation Cushion Set
• Best overstuffed: Moonlight Print Sunrise Ocean Mid Century Modern Style Floor Pillow
• Best splurge: Brentwood Home Crystal Cove Square Meditation Cushion
• Best linen: Halfmoon Linen Round Meditation Cushion
• Best round: Gaim Zafu Mediation Cushion
• Best extra long: Love My Mat Pacific Yoga Bolster

“One of the primary reasons to sit upon a meditation cushion is to allow the body to feel as comfortable and supported as possible,” says Noom fitness coach and yoga instructor Jennifer Seale. "Sukhasana (easy pose), the traditional cross-legged seated posture for meditation, is not always accessible, especially for those with tight hips or limited mobility. Meditation cushions can alleviate unnecessary pressure and tightness so the practitioner can focus less on discomfort, and more on their mindful practice."

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Additionally, meditation pillows are great for providing your back and lower body with stability, says yoga teacher and healer, Alexandra Plante . "A cushion acts as a stabilizer for your hips and spine," says Plante. "A straight spine isn't just for looks—it facilitates improved breathing and circulation of blood (to get re-oxygenated) and energies moving up and down your spine. In this way, you can think of a cushion as a tool to help your body be set up for success."

Types of meditation cushions

In general, meditation pillows fall into one of two categories: zafu and zabuton. Zafu cushions are the most popular for seated support since they allow the knees to drop below the hips and help keep your spine aligned. They’re usually round, smaller, firmer and filled with materials like buckwheat hulls, kapok, cotton, and polyester. On the flip side, zabuton cushions are rectangular and are often used to support your knees while you’re sitting on a zafu pillow. Though, it's not wrong to use a zabuton pillow on its own, too.

What to look for in a meditation cushion

When looking for a cushion, consider the product's height, size, shape, durability and washability. (Pro tip: For those who are tall or have less flexibility and mobility in your hips, stick with something that gives you a higher lift off the ground). But ultimately, comfort is what matters. “Meditation cushions come in all different sizes, heights and shapes," says founder of Zen Mommy Jessica Gershman. "You should try out a variety of cushions to see which one is most comfortable for your body shape and flexibility.”

Below are some of the best meditation cushions to, quite literally, support your mindful practice.

Best meditation cushions

With nearly 1,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, this Florensi Meditation cushion is a true fan favorite, and for good reason. According to Gershman, it’s the perfect size to “fit most mediations comfortably” and is easy to sit on for long periods of time. Plus, the buckwheat fill gives it a nice sturdiness and durability over time.

-Budget-friendly -Removable buckwheat filling -Machine-washable cover -Available in crescent shape -Size is standard for most meditations

Cons : -Heavy

“If you want a meditation cushion that has duel purpose, I recommend the Manduka rectangular yoga bolster,” says Gershman. “It will elevate your hips to a more comfortable position and [it] also can be used in restorative yoga postures to optimize your body’s ability to relax.”

-Removable cover -Absorbent fabric to pick up moisture -Easy carry-on handle -Soft to the touch -Features 30% recycled polyester fiber fill -Supportive for yoga

Cons: -Light support

If you struggle with knee pain when you sit cross-legged, this meditation set may be able to ease some of your discomfort. The small bamboo bench stands 7.5 inches high off the ground to give those with tighter hips more flexibility and allow you to relax your knees comfortably below your hips. It also comes with a supportive zabuton mat to help take pressure off your knees while holding Sukhasana pose.

Pros: -Easy storage -Foldable bench -Includes large zabuton mat -1 year warranty

Cons: -Limited colors

This meditation cushion is a win for both comfort and sustainability. It features an organic cotton liner and buckwheat fill that you can remove to create more or less firmness. Additionally, the pillow is not too high off the ground and comes with a very soft-knit cover. “I have several products from this company for my at-home practice,” says Plante . “I actually use two of their products for meditation. Designed by a yoga teacher in California, I appreciate the thought, care, and efforts towards sustainability of the company.”

Pros: -Buckwheat fill is removable -Sturdy handle for easy storage and transport -Ideal for both yoga and meditation practices -Made with non-toxic materials -Durable

Cons : -Limited colors

Find your inner peace with these zafu and zabuton meditation cushions from Bean Products. Made to help reduce knee, foot, and lower back pain, this set features a cotton canvas cover that is soft to the touch and easy to sit on. The extra large size zabuton pillow also provides plenty of coverage for your knees and ankles to rest on while sitting on hardwood floors.

-Round or oval zafu cushion available -Durable cotton canvas cover -Organic buckwheat fill

Cons : -Hard to store

The best part of this meditation set is its design. The zafu cushion is slightly angled to better relieve lower back pain and elevate your hips forward. Additionally, it’s packed with a blend of memory foam, polyester fiber, and polymer beads to provide more ergonomic support. “This cushion is great for those with tight hips and hardwood floors,” says yoga and meditation instructor, Veronica Fernandez at The Lodge at Woodloch Spa and Resort in Pennsylvania.

-Includes soft ankle pillow -Stays in place with faux-suede lining -Washable covers -Super comfy -Made with eco-friendly materials

Made with polyester, this Moonlight Print pillow is more than just for supporting your spine during Sukhasana pose. “These are large, soft cushions,” says Fernandez. “They are large enough to also be used as a bolster under the knees when lying down, or a pillow for the head.”

Pros: -Available in round and square -Keeps firmness over time -Bar-tack center stitch to prevents rips and tears -Plush polyester cover -Versatile

Cons : -Round size is smaller than square

While pricey, this Brentwood Home cushion is totally worth the extra coins. At 27 by 27 inches, this luxe zabuton pillow is big and wide enough to support your lower body on its own. The cotton cover is also GOTS certified organic and packed with a vegan buckwheat fill.

-Removable cover -Sturdy handle for easy storage -Made with non-toxic and sustainable materials -Super durable

Cons : -Pricey -Heavy

For Kino MacGregor , author and Ashtanga Yoga instructor, any one of Halfmoon’s linen meditation cushions provides great support for your body. But the six-inch height on this cushion is perfect to help relax tension in your hips. Also, the buckwheat filling can be removed so you can control the seat’s firmness.

Pros : -Great for tight hips -Can be used for seated yoga positions

Cons: -No casing to hold buckwheat filling

If you’re looking for a standard, easy-to-use meditation cushion, consider this option from Gaiam. Whether you like to sit on your heels or criss-crossed, this pillow has got your back (literally). It’s designed to help improve posture and provide pressure relief.

Pros : -Standard height for most meditations -Keeps it shape

Cons: -Very firm

This Love My Mat bolster pillow is designed to support the entire length of your spine so you get full support when lying down. “Long bolsters which can be used in yoga classes are great for under the knees to support you lower back in a lying down meditation,” says meditation teacher and astrologer, Lisa Kiss . “Personally I am fan of lying down and meditating and using a bolster under my knees. It is much more relaxing and easier to set into the meditation.”

Pros : -Removable cover -Fill is 100% natural cotton -Multiple colors

Cons : -Extra long

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7 Best Meditation Pillows For 2024

The Good Trade editors endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and genuinely love. Learn more about our methodology and business model here .

Finding the right place to meditate can be a challenge. Our beds or couches can be a bit too comfy (has anyone else ever fallen asleep? Just us?), but hard floors can hurt our hips and knees. That’s why we recommend meditation pillows for your mindfulness practice: These soft yet sturdy cushions will help support your hips, strengthen your spine, and alleviate any aches and pains.

There are lots of meditation pillows out there: Zafus (or round cushions) help provide additional height and hip support, while bolster pillows provide more width and pelvis support. Either way, you’ll want to find one that’s adjustable (i.e., you can remove extra fill if necessary), easy to clean, and made with natural materials as much as possible.

We’ve rounded up seven of our favorite meditation cushions and pillows, all of which include organic, vegan, or sustainably sourced materials. They’re also all thoughtfully crafted or made in small batches, and many go to support local small businesses. Both you and worldwide communities will benefit! Here’s to leveling up your mindfulness practice. 🧘

Made In | Los Angeles, CA Materials | GOTS certified organic cotton, OEKO-TEX certified stitching, vegan buckwheat Price | $79

Avocado ’s yoga collection is a great one-stop shop for all your meditation, movement, and mindfulness needs. Its Organic Yoga Meditation Pillow is handcrafted in Los Angeles, using vegan and organic materials inside and out (the organic cotton, for example, is sourced from India and makes up the outer fabric). We love that the pillow is uniquely designed to support your spine while sitting and that it comes with a canvas under-bed storage bag so you can keep it free from debris when you’re not using it. Breathe easy (ha!) knowing you have a 30-day trial and up to 1-year warranty with this meditation pillow. You can read our in-depth Avocado meditation pillow review here .

2. Ethel Studio

Made In | St. Paul, MN Materials | Upcycled scrap fabrics, buckwheat hulls Price | $99-$155 Maggie Dimmick, the creator behind Ethel Studio , launched the brand after seeing how much textile waste there was in the industry. Today, everything is made in-house in Minnesota using upcycled scrap fabrics and zero-waste processes. ES’s key values include economic justice by paying reparations, focusing on slowness and purpose, and transparent business practices. The meditation pillows here will level up your practice, and you can choose from three styles (a half-moon, rounded cushion, or a mat) that fit your needs. You can even purchase replacement buckwheat hulls for the inner fill! Enjoy these unique designs as you engage in this peaceful ritual.

3. Brentwood Home

Made In | Los Angeles, CA Materials | GOTS certified organic cotton, buckwheat hulls Price | $79-$125 Brentwood Home ’s Crystal Cove Yoga collection is certified vegan, so if you also live an animal-free lifestyle, these meditation cushions align well with your values. Depending on your preferred pose, you can opt for one of three styles here (the oval cushion, the square cushion, or the bolster), but we like the square shape for both yoga and meditation use—a double whammy, if you will. It’s also quite lovely to look at with a peacock fabric design and sleek reinforced handles, so no need to stow it away. One percent of proceeds from the Crystal Cove collection supports SeaTrees, which restores kelp forests in California and beyond. Sturdy, sustainable, and supporting the sea.

4. Sound as Color

Made In | Vista, CA Materials | Organic cotton, organic buckwheat hulls, botanical dyes Price | $114-$345 Sound as Color ’s mission is to “create thoughtful, healing products that celebrate nature,” and they’ve nailed it with these gorgeous meditation pillows. Every cushion is sourced from natural and organic materials and dyed using natural ingredients like avocado pits, indigo, and marigolds. There are plenty of styles and colors to choose from—which is great if you’re building a meditation corner with an aesthetic vision in mind. While these are the most expensive options on the list, they’re also women-owned, completely natural, made in the US, and one-of-a-kind, so you can invest in your products the way you invest in your peace.

5. Halfmoon

Made In | Burnaby, BC Materials | Canadian buckwheat hulls, linen or cotton Price | $54-$144 For our friends to the north, Halfmoon is a wonderful British Canadian brand for yoga and meditation accessories. (And if you’re American, yes, the brand does deliver to the contiguous US!) Find stillness and serenity with one of the meditation pillows here—there are dozens to choose from, with varying fabrics, designs, shapes, and more. You can also grab a cushion and mat set if you prefer additional support for your hips, ankles, or knees. We’re eyeing the stunning limited edition designs, so if you are too, you’ll want to order one before they sell out for good! 

Made In | India Materials | Organic buckwheat, organic kapok, organic cotton hemp Price | $75-$165 renoo ’s on a mission to share the power of meditation while also showing the world that living a cruelty-free, ethically sourced, and eco-friendly lifestyle is possible. From crop to cushion, every part of renoo’s meditation pillows is traceable, and artisans handcraft each cushion in India. We love that in addition to organic buckwheat hulls, other materials like organic kapok and hemp are fully biodegradable. (And can we talk about the soothing pastel and neutral colors? So intentional!) Whether you’re just starting out on your meditation journey or you’re a mindfulness pro, you’ll benefit from using the renoo cushions.

7. HempOrganicLife

Made In | Ukraine Materials | Linen, organic buckwheat Price | $25-$130 Based in Ukraine (which could surely use our support right now!), HempOrganicLife is a best-selling organic hemp shop on Etsy. With 16,000+ 5-star sales, this small biz launched after the founder was inspired by her own newborn baby, and now there are 300+ items in inventory. What do we love most about the meditation pillows here? The beautiful embroidery, the chic bubble design on the accompanying mats, the carbon-free shipping…the list goes on! But most importantly, we appreciate the accessible price point with options starting at $25. Serenity now .

Featured image is from Ethel Studio

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7 Best Meditation Pillows to Help You Restore Your Inner Peace

Serenity and peace of mind are only achievable in an organized and well-equipped moment of relaxation. Beyond the total silence that must imperatively reign in the room, sitting on a comfortable pillow also provides this quietude. It is therefore important to choose the best meditation pillow that withstands intense stresses.

These accessories support your practice and put the odds in your favor to achieve your goals: reduction of chronic pain, anxiety, and symptoms of depression. After extensive research, we have selected and analyzed some of the top-rated models, which we will introduce to you in this article. Also, you’ll find in this guide practical information to find a meditation pillow perfectly suited to your meditation programs.

• Quick Summary
• Editor’s Choice: REEHUT Zafu Yoga Meditation pillow "The cover of this yoga meditation pillow is made of hemp cotton. It is sufficiently sized to allow good cross-legged posture. Its zipper is hidden for great aesthetics."
• Premium Pick: Ajna Yoga Bolster Pillow for Meditation and Support "This rectangular-shaped model offers you everything you need to enjoy your meditative practice in the best possible conditions."
• Best Value: Peace Yoga Meditation Bolster Pillow "Perhaps the best yoga meditation pillow on the market, this is a round pillow that is covered in a polyester material. The filling includes buckwheat hulls."
• Best Floor Pillow: Monk & Llama Adjustable Buckwheat Meditation pillow "The Monk & Llama pillow is also another rectangular pillow. However, this is filled with buckwheat hulls. The cover is made of cotton."
• Best Design: HIGOGOGO Turquoise Meditation Pillow for Floor "This is a flat, square, ergonomic floor pillow with multiple tufting. It comes in one size of 22 x 22 x 3.94 inches, weighing 2.14 lbs."
• Best Color Variety: Lotuscrafts Meditation pillow Round Lotus "A very popular product because of its excellent value for money, this model is obtainable in seven colors."
• Best Travel Meditation Pillow: NOVO Wellbeing Zafu Meditation pillow "Filled with buckwheat hull, this meditation pillow blends very easily with the shape of your body while supporting you firmly."

Top 7 Meditation Pillows Review 2024

REEHUT Zafu Yoga Meditation pillow

• Shape: round
• Size: 12 x 12 4.5, 13 x 13 x 4.5 or 16 x 16 x 4.5 inches
• Weight: 4 lbs.
• Material: cotton
• Filling: buckwheat hull

More features: versatile; comes in a variety of colors; promotes proper posture; machine-washable cover; convenient handles

The cover of this yoga meditation pillow is made of hemp cotton, which promotes its durability. It is sufficiently sized to allow good cross-legged posture. Its zipper is hidden for great aesthetics. Suitable for both experienced practitioners and beginners, it is versatile due to its seat height of around 4.5 inches. Also, to guarantee you a greater level of comfort, you can, if you wish, match this pillow with a meditation mat. Likewise, it comes to you with a whole range of colors, so you can choose the one that suits your needs.

This pillow is designed for yoga beginners and advanced practicers. The cushion relieves stress on knee joints and also supports the back. We, therefore, see this as the best meditation pillow for bad backs.

• Stuffed with organic buckwheat, this meditation pillow is super comfortable, allowing you to concentrate to the fullest. We also liked the flexibility of this pillow. It offers great posture support during use. It is also machine washable and available in three sizes and five color options.
• The processing of the materials requires better quality control. A few users report finding bugs. However, this is something common with buckwheat.

Ajna Yoga Bolster Pillow for Meditation and Support

• Shape: rectangular
• Size: 25 x 14 x 5.5 inches
• Weight: 3.4 lbs.
• Material: eco-suede, produced sustainably from recycled 100% vegan materials
• Filling: layers of recycled foam

More features: has a carry handle; machine washable cover; comes in a variety of colors; durable; dual-layer technology

This rectangular-shaped model offers you everything you need to enjoy your meditative practice in the best possible conditions. Filled with layers of recycled foams, it is fully covered in an eco-suede material that is sustainably produced from 100 percent vegan materials.  This silky and very light vegetable fiber gives it great stability while maintaining flexibility. With dimensions of 25 x 14 x 5.5 inches, the Ajna Yoga Meditation Pillow is bigger than most of the other models in our selection. Very light, hypoallergenic, and sterilized, it is also available in a wide choice of colors.

It is a pillow that designers, masseurs, and master yogas particularly appreciate because of its functional and elegant aspects. Padded with recycled foams, this model is relatively flexible to allow you to relax when the time comes. Also, thanks to this structure, it effectively stabilizes your seat to keep you in balance during your moments of meditation.

• This yoga meditation pillow withstands the most intensive uses, thanks to its design with double stitching. In addition, the product is ideal for people with allergens. The composition of this model considerably limits the risks of hypersensitivity.
• It's considerably more expensive than other pillows in this review. However, there are no complaints from users about this product.

Peace Yoga Meditation Bolster Pillow

• Size: 13 x 13 or 16 x 16 inches
• Weight: 2.04 kg
• Material: polyester
• Filling: buckwheat hulls

More features: comes in a variety of colors; multipurpose; machine-washable cover; handles for portability; one year warranty

Perhaps the best yoga meditation pillow on the market, this is a round pillow that is covered in a polyester material. The filling includes buckwheat hulls. The product comes in several color varieties and two sizes: 13-inch and 16-inch diameters.

If you want to relieve stress, this pillow is perfect. Its ergonomic shape allows it to reduce compression in the spine. The pillow measures 13 and 16 inches in width for a weight of 2 kg. This makes it a very suitable product for meditation that is easy to transport. This model of yoga cushion is, first of all, very practical for a relaxation activity but is also interesting for other activities such as reading. Comfortable and resistant, it will make you feel comfortable sitting on it. It is also suitable for sitting in front of a low table to have an aperitif with friends.

• We liked how highly comfortable this is. It is designed to prevent numbness in the legs during your sessions. The padding is made of buckwheat, which further enhances comfort while optimizing back support.
• The stitching could be better. It's made in China. However, it's a very cheap pillow.

Monk & Llama Adjustable Buckwheat Meditation pillow

• Size: 14.29 x 11.85 x 6.97 inches
• Weight: 2.56 kg

More features: eco-friendly; handmade; comfortable to sit on

The Monk & Llama pillow is also another rectangular pillow. However, this is filled with buckwheat hulls. The cover is made of cotton. The product is made of eco-friendly materials and is handmade and comfortable to sit on.

This model takes the best you can find in a yoga cushion with an eco-friendly filling material and guaranteed organic cotton cultivation. If you are looking for a yoga cushion that meets ecological requirements, you must look at this model. This pillow is ideal for sensitive people. We also liked that this model is also particularly pleasant to the touch and hypoallergenic.

• Machine or hand washable, this cushion will naturally find its place in the living room or the bedroom for special moments. We liked that this model has all the qualities that one can ask for this type of pillow. Ergonomic, therapeutic, ecological, and practical, it will suit all members of the family. Note that it is also possible to choose from several colors, which means that this cushion can adapt to your style. The price is more attractive, which makes it a very good investment.
• We found nothing wrong with this product. Also, there are no complaints from other users. It is comfortable, made of organic materials, handmade, and of high quality.

HIGOGOGO Turquoise Meditation Pillow for Floor

• Shape: square
• Size: 22 x 22 x 3.94 inches
• Weight: 2.14 lbs.
• Material: linen
• Filling: cotton

More features: comes in a variety of patterns; soft to touch; multifunctional

Our option of the best floor pillow meditation accessory is a flat, square, ergonomic floor pillow with multiple tufting. This pillow comes in one size of 22 x 22 x 3.94 inches, weighing 2.14 lbs. The pillow may seem large on the floor, but it remains lightweight. The cover material is made of linen while it’s filled with cotton. The linen material makes it soft to the touch. Very multifunctional, it comes in a variety of materials.

What differentiates this pillow from other models is its bohemian/Indian style. It’s ideal for yoga in the living room, balcony, and outdoor use. Even kids can use it in their playing room.

• The 100% cotton filling with nylon cover material ensures the pillow is soft and comfortable. This model of pillow is intended for people wishing to practice meditation at home in the best conditions. With a resistant and, at the same time, soft material, this cushion is a good starting point for learning yoga and meditation. Like the previous model, it is possible to choose the color of your pillow. Thus, you'll have a pillow that matches your personality.
• We think the pillow would be better appreciated if it was removable for ease of washing. You can't remove the cover, apparently because of the tufted design. However, while you can't wash it in the machine, it is still washable by hand.

Lotuscrafts Meditation pillow Round Lotus

• Size: 12 x 12 x 6 inches
• Weight: 2.06 lbs.
• Material: organic cover

More features: washable cover; adjustable; GOTS-certified

A very popular product because of its excellent value for money, this model is obtainable in seven colors. This yoga pillow consists of a filling of buckwheat hull. The cover is 100 percent cotton, 100 percent organic, and very durable. Note that it is possible to wash this cover in the washing machine. In terms of size, this is a high profile with a height of 6 inches and a diameter of 12 inches.

This is perfect for starting meditation at home without hurting yourself. If you are looking for a bigger pillow, this is it! The pillow is designed for lotus position meditation. The weight of the set is 2.06 pounds, which is relatively small and allows children to handle the pillow.

• What we like about this model is that asides from meditation, it can be used as a pouf to spend time with friends around the coffee table. We like the material the cover is made of. First, it is washable. Secondly, it is made of organic and hypoallergenic cotton and is certified by GOTS. Hence, it is ideal for people suffering from allergens.
• One of the only downsides we can think of is that it is only available in one color. However, this only size is regular: not too big nor too small. Other than that, we found no problem with this pillow.

NOVO Wellbeing Zafu Meditation pillow

• Shape: circle
• Size: 12 x 4.5 inches
• Weight: 3.7 lbs.
• Material: cotton, linen, and velvet blend

More features: comes in different colors; has a complimentary lavender eye pillow; optimal support; odor-free; removable cover

Filled with buckwheat hull, this meditation pillow blends very easily with the shape of your body while supporting you firmly. Thanks to the filling system, this device ensures the regulation of temperature and humidity. Also, it is woven from a blend of linen, velvet, and cotton fiber, which in contact with the skin presents less of a low risk of allergic reaction.

The height and diameter of this cushion are suitable for different relaxation situations. Ideal for yoga meditation, the pillow can be used for cold and hot aromatherapy. What differentiates this product is the free eye pillow that comes with it. This is ideal for applying pressure to the eyes and for relieving headaches.

• We like the handle of the pillow. It is designed for transportability. The cover also includes a zipper which ensures the inner content can be removed. You can machine wash it in case of stubborn stains. We also like its all-natural filling.
• The pillow could be bigger. It has a diameter of 12 inches and a height of just 4.5 inches. It will not be suitable, especially for those who have just had bum surgery.
• Things to Consider

As more and more people adopt home meditation as their daily practice, the supply of meditation pillows continues to grow, making the selection more difficult. To be sure to make the right choices, you must take into consideration the posture you take when you practice your meditation. This will determine the type of pillow that will be ideal for you. In this buying guide, we’ll provide you with more information on meditation pillows, why you need one, and how to choose one.

• Why do you need a meditation pillow?

The use of a pillow and other accessories is important to ensure your comfort while sitting in different postures while meditating. Most people are only interested in accessories like the yoga block or the mat. Many ignore the wonders that a good pillow can bring. If you are not yet convinced about the need for a meditation pillow, any of these five reasons might change your mind.

• A practical accessory for yoga

Even without your yoga bolster, you can use your pillow for relaxing poses. It can be used to support the knees in inclined twists. You can also lie on it in the Bound Angle Reclining Pose or “Baddha Konasana.” The material will support the lower back.

• They represent your meditation style

Each person can find the model that suits them according to the morphology of their body. The same goes for your mind and the movements you want to achieve during the session. By testing a pillow, an individual can automatically determine whether the item is right for them or not. A good pillow generates a good meditative vibration.

Each time you sit on this pillow, you will automatically feel the comfort and well-being that it brings to your body. Some yoga practitioners even claim that certain types of pillows can generate positive energies.

Features to consider before you buy a meditation pillow

From the size to the shape, filling material, cover material, and the possibility of washing it, in this section, we’ll see some of the features to consider in a meditation pillow.

Between the full lotus, half lotus (crossed legs), or the kneeling position (seiza), there are different meditation postures, and you can use more than one for your meditative practice.

And, depending on your personal preferences or the demands of your meditation program, some type of support is, in most cases, necessary to maintain proper alignment and comfort during sessions. You should therefore pay special attention to the shape adopted by the meditation pillow. Here are the different options:

Shaped like a half-moon or round and featuring lateral expansion pleats, the Zafu meditation pillow allows the legs to rest comfortably, raising the hips and upper body. It is well suited to people of average height and who have fairly good flexibility. If you do not fall into these categories, avoid this type of meditation pillow, as you could expose yourself to problems with your balance. Finally, it should be noted that this type of meditation pillow is ideal for lotus or similar sits in which your knees are lying flat. The REEHUT Yoga Pillow and the NOVO Wellbeing Meditation Pillow are examples of good zofa pillows.

This is a variation of zafu that works well for almost everyone, but especially for taller people. Also, for those who are less flexible, the Cosmic Meditation pillow has extended sides to support the thighs.

• Rectangular

Often preferred by more experienced meditators, the rectangular meditation pillow is suitable for people of average or smaller height but also those with greater flexibility. A typical example of this type of shape is the Ajna Yoga Bolster Pillow and the Monk & Llama Pillow .

When it comes to choosing your meditation pillow, you will need to know which height you need or which you prefer. It must be between 4.5 to 6 inches so that the knees are not too high in relation to the pelvis.

However, be careful not to choose a pillow that is too high as this could cause back pain. So you have to find a balance.

The width of the yoga pillow, it’s very simple: it must be adapted to the width of your buttocks. Also, consider that you might be taking your pillow with you everywhere or considering packing it in your suitcase for the holidays. If this is the case, it must have a more compact size and maybe a handle, like the NOVO Wellbeing Zafu Meditation Pillow . As regarding the weight, this should not be more than 2 pounds.

• Cover material

Look for materials like cotton (or another breathable, easy-to-clean fabric) for the cover of your meditation pillow. It is also advisable that the cover be removable and machine washable.

Meditation pillows are made from a variety of materials, and you should take the time to think carefully about the material used for the padding. That being said, kapok and buckwheat hull are the two main options.

This is a fluffy material similar to cotton. Kapok is an all-natural fiber harvested from the pods of the kapok tree found in Asia and parts of the southern United States. When incorporated into a meditation pillow, the kapok becomes dense and firm. This lightweight natural material has the particularity of not compressing like cotton, polyester fleece, and foam products.

The pillow is then very stable while remaining flexible. It also has the unique ability to retain its softness after many uses.

• Buckwheat hulls

Dark and saucer-shaped buckwheat hulls are the outer husk of the buckwheat grain. When a meditation pillow is stuffed with buckwheat hulls, it provides an effect comparable to a pile of sand but with much less weight. This type of pillow, however, weighs more than those filled with kapok. On the other hand, buckwheat hull pillows have the advantage of being more stable and of adapting quite easily to the shape of the body, at the same time creating a feeling of being very anchored.

• Spelled ball

Some mediation pillows are filled with cleaned and uncluttered, spelled hulls. This allows them to adapt perfectly to your body type and to support the spine. Among other known benefits, spelled husks also promote natural relaxation and ensure good temperature and humidity regulation. In addition, mediation pillows with this filling can be emptied or refilled according to your needs.

Many meditation pillows are designed to be light and portable, but if these parameters are a big deal for you, you might be well advised to consider purchasing an inflatable model. These types of mediation pillows play the card of convenience. So, when you’re not using your pillow, you can easily fold it up and store it – or slip it into your bag to take with you for meditation practice on the go.

• What’s the best way to use a meditation pillow?
• How to clean a meditation pillow?
• Our verdict

Rated 9.9 out of 10 , the REEHUT Zafu Yoga Meditation Pillow has a cover made of hemp cotton. It is sufficiently sized to allow good cross-legged posture. Its zipper is hidden for great aesthetics. It is our overall best meditation pillow.

Our Premium Pick is the Ajna Yoga Bolster Pillow . Rated 9.8, this rectangular-shaped model offers you everything you need to enjoy your meditative practice in the best possible conditions.

Offering the best value, the Peace Yoga Bolster Pillow earns a 9.5 rating. This is a round pillow that is covered in polyester material and filled with buckwheat hulls.

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7 Best Meditation Cushions to Support Your Yoga Practice

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As if sitting still for more than 10 minutes isn’t hard enough, try sitting on the floor without any support. It’s probably not going to inspire daily meditation sessions.

Just like you need a proper bed for a good night’s sleep , a high-quality meditation cushion is a must if you want to establish a consistent practice. Luckily, seasoned sitters created cushions, mats, and chairs to make meditating for a long period of time not only manageable, but truly comfortable.

When choosing a meditation cushion, you want to be mindful—no pun intended—of the sturdiness of the cushion. Most meditation cushions are filled with buckwheat, which makes it heavy enough to keep you from shifting in your seat. If your knees and feet are sensitive, look for a meditation cushion that comes with a mat, which provides extra support.

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To help you choose the right seat for you, we created this list of the best meditation cushions available right now for a solid meditation practice:

Crystal Cove Meditation Pillow

This pillow is filled cushiony buckwheat and sealed with an organic cotton liner. Designed by Los Angeles yoga instructor Angela Kukhahn, the cushion mimics calm, Southern California tide pools.

$59, brentwoodhome.com ; also available from  Amazon

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Walden Meditation Cushion & Mat

The Walden duo comes with a meditation cushion, filled with buckwheat that molds to your tush, and a mat to go underneath the cushion to protect the ankles and the knees. This pair is perfect for a long sit.

$195, walden.us

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Secret Garden Cushion Set

Another supportive meditation set, this pair is ideal for establishing a strong meditation posture . The shape helps support a relaxed, yet still energized , posture.

$189, sugarmat.com

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Premium Zafu Crescent Meditation Cushion

This cushion is designed to relieve pressure from the back, ankles, and knees while supporting spinal alignment. It’s the perfect shape to find a comfortable Easy Pose (Sukhasana).

$50, gaiam.com ; also available from Amazon

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Hugger Mugger Zen Meditation Cushion

This rectangle-shaped pillow doubles as a supportive prop for restorative yoga poses. The height of the cushion also allows for the knees to drop below the hips a bit easier than most other cushions.

$65, huggermugger.com ; also available from Amazon

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Rattan Meditation Chair

Not into the cushion setup? This special chair offers taller back support and is designed for a cross-legged sit. Plus, it has a twice-as-thick cushion than most meditation setups, making it a great option for a longer practice.

$329, gaiam.com

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Alexia Meditation Seat

This seat is crafted with vegan leather and comes in 10 different colors. While it’s a spendy option, the cushion promotes an “S” shape in your spine instead of a stiff 90-degree angle you’ll find in a regular chair.

$385, alexiameditationseat.com ; also available from Amazon

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About the Author

Bridget “Bee” Creel is the editorial producer for Yoga Journal. She works as a yoga teacher in NYC and is the co-founder of the wellness community, Mood Room .

Please note that we independently source all of the products that we feature on yogajournal.com . If you buy from the links on our site, we may receive an affiliate commission, which in turn supports our work.

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14 Best Meditation Cushions Of 2023 for a Comfortable Meditation Session

The popularity of meditation is on the rise, with a variety of techniques to choose from, all aimed at achieving a calm, mindful state. The benefits, including reduced anxiety and depression symptoms, make it appealing to many. Most techniques involve sitting, often cross-legged, which can be uncomfortable for extended periods.

This is where the best meditation cushion can enhance your practice, adding a new level of comfort. You can choose from a Zafu- or Zabuton-style cushion, designed to elevate the hips or cushion the knees. In this article, we’ve reviewed the 14 best meditation cushions , selected for their quality, comfort, and ease of cleaning. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced meditator, you’ll find the top cushions that meet your needs.

This post may contain affiliate links and I may earn a small commission when you click on the links at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. You can read my full disclosure policy here .

My Top Picks

• Best for back pain : Seat of Your Soul Crescent Meditation Cushion
• Best for bad knees : Hugger Mugger V-Shaped Meditation Cushion
• Best large cushion : Lotuscrafts Meditation Cushion
• Best bolster with bag : Gayo Yoga Bolster
• Best premium cushion : Sunday Citizen Crystal Meditation Pillow
• Best for tight hips : Florensi Meditation Cushion
• Best budget cushion : Retrospec Sedona Zafu Meditation Cushion
• Best pillow set : Leewadee Meditation Cushion Set
• Best for kids : Sioloc Flower Pillow
• Best for travel : Carolina Morning Inflatable Zafu
• Best small cushion : Waterglider International Zafu Meditation Pillow
• Best crescent cushion : FelizMax Crescent Zafu Meditation Pillow
• Best long bolster : Gaiam Yoga Bolster Long Meditation Pillow
• My personal favorite : Mira Zafu Buckwheat Meditation Cushion

14 Best Meditation Cushions for a Comfortable Meditation Session of 2023:

In this best meditation cushion review, I’ll be showing you the best zafu pillow, and zabuton cushions, to help you with proper posture and spine support during your meditation.

Best for Back Pain

Seat of Your Soul Crescent Meditation Cushion

• Made from eco-friendly materials
• Provides good support for the lower back
• Has a removable and washable cover
• May not be suitable for taller individuals
• May not be firm enough for some users

The Seat of Your Soul Crescent Meditation Cushion is a uniquely shaped cushion that provides support to your hips and lower back.

Made from eco-friendly materials, this cushion is designed to maintain its shape over time. It comes in a range of colors to match your style and has a convenient carrying handle for easy transport.

Key features:

Materials: Organic cotton cover with 100% buckwheat hull filling | Dimensions: 17” x 10.5” x 5” | Colors: 10 options

Best for Bad Knees

Hugger Mugger V-Shaped Meditation Cushion

• Provides good support for the spine and hips
• Made from durable materials
• Easy to clean and maintain
• May not be comfortable for those with knee issues

The Hugger Mugger V-Shaped Meditation Cushion is designed to promote proper spinal alignment and reduce pressure on your knees and ankles.

It’s made from organic cotton and has a buckwheat hull filling that can be adjusted to your desired level of firmness. This cushion comes in several colors and has a removable cover for easy cleaning.

Materials:  100% organic cotton cover and buckwheat hull filling | Dimensions:  17” x 24” x 6” | Color s: 10 color options and 4 patterns

Best Large Cushion

Lotuscrafts Meditation Cushion

• Made from organic and sustainable materials
• Provides good support for the spine
• May not be suitable for those with knee issues

The Lotuscrafts Round Meditation Cushion is made from organic cotton and is filled with buckwheat hulls that conform to your body’s shape.

This cushion is designed to promote proper spinal alignment and reduce pressure on your knees and ankles. It comes in a variety of colors and has a handle for easy transport.

Materials:  GOTS-certified organic cotton cover with 100% buckwheat hull filling | Dimensions:  11” x 8” | Colors:  7 options

Best Bolster With Bag

Gayo Yoga Bolster

The Gayo Yoga Bolster is a versatile cushion that can be used for various yoga poses as well as meditation. It’s made from eco-friendly materials and has a buckwheat hull filling that can be adjusted to your desired level of firmness. This cushion comes in several colors and has a removable cover for easy cleaning.

Materials: 100% organic cotton cover and filling | Dimensions: Standard – 25” x 10.5” x 6.5”Travel – 18” x 11” x 6.5” | Colors : 1 option in each size

Best Premium Cushion

Sunday Citizen Crystal Meditation Pillow

• Made from soft and comfortable materials
• Comes with a removable and washable cover

The Sunday Citizen Crystal Meditation Pillow is a luxurious cushion that’s perfect for a relaxing meditation session. It’s made from velvet and has a crystal filling that’s believed to promote relaxation and reduce stress. This cushion comes in several colors and has a removable cover for easy cleaning.

Materials: 100% microfiber cover and buckwheat hull filling, with amethyst and quartz crystals | Dimensions: 16” x 12.5” x 5.5” | Colors: 4 options

Best Zafu for Tight Hips

Florensi Meditation Cushion

• Made from high-quality materials

The Florensi Meditation Cushion is made from high-quality velvet and has a buckwheat hull filling that conforms to your body’s shape.

It’s rated on Amazon as one of the best meditation floor pillows. This cushion is designed to promote proper spinal alignment and reduce pressure on your knees and ankles. It comes in a range of colors and has a handle for easy transport.

Materials: Velvet Cover, 100% Organic Buckwheat Filling, Padded Foam Disc | Dimensions: 16” x 16” x 5” | Colors: 6 options

Best Budget Cushion

Retrospec Sedona Zafu Meditation Cushion

The Retrospec Sedona Zafu Meditation Cushion is made from eco-friendly materials and has a buckwheat hull filling that conforms to your body’s shape. This cushion is designed to promote proper spinal alignment and reduce pressure on your knees and ankles. It comes in several colors and has a removable cover for easy cleaning.

Materials: Cotton cover with buckwheat hull filling | Dimensions: Round – 13” x 4.5”Crescent – 17” x 10.5” x 5.5” | Colors: 6 options

Best Cushion Set

Leewadee Meditation Cushion Set

• Natural kapok filling
• Comes with a Zabuton meditation cushion
• Covers not removable
• Hand wash only

The Leewadee Meditation Cushion Set comes with both a zafu cushion and a zabuton mat for added comfort. The zafu cushion is made from eco-friendly materials and has a buckwheat hull filling that conforms to your body’s shape.

The zabuton mat is made from cotton and is filled with kapok fibers for added cushioning so it’s one of the best meditation mats, even though it’s part of a set. This set comes in several colors and has a convenient carrying handle.

Materials: Cotton twill cover and 100% kapok filling | Dimensions: Mat – 28” x 28” Cushion – 14” x 14” x 8” | Colors: 19 options

Best for kids

Sioloc Flower Pillow

• Made from soft, durable fabric that is easy to clean
• Available in different sizes
• Stylish design with a range of fun colors
• May be too firm for some
• Not as versatile as some other cushion shapes, such as crescent or round cushions
• May not provide enough height for individuals with limited flexibility or mobility in the hips and knees.

The Sioloc Flower Pillow is a unique and whimsical option for those looking to add a touch of floral elegance to their home decor and get small kids interested in meditation. The flower-shaped pillow is designed to be used as a throw pillow, butt cushion, or floor pillow, depending on your preference.

Materials: Cotton cover and Polypropylene filling | Dimensions: Mat – 15.7” x 15.7” | Colors: 12 options (various sizes)

Best for Travel

Carolina Morning Inflatable Zafu

• Compact enough to fit in a coat pocket
• Replaceable inflatable liner
• Durable and safe for outdoor use
• May not be suitable for those who prefer a firm cushion
• May lose air over time and require reinflation

The Carolina Morning Inflatable Zafu is a unique cushion that can be inflated to your desired level of firmness.

It’s made from eco-friendly materials and is designed to promote proper spinal alignment and reduce pressure on your knees and ankles. This cushion comes in several colors and is lightweight for easy transport.

Materials: Organic cotton cover | Dimensions: Medium – 12” x 6”Large – 13” x 7” | Colors: 14 options

Best Small Cushion

Waterglider International Zafu Yoga Meditation Pillow

The Waterglider International Zafu Yoga Meditation Pillow is made from organic cotton and has a buckwheat hull filling that conforms to your body’s shape.

This cushion is designed to promote proper spinal alignment and reduce pressure on your knees and ankles. It comes in several colors and has a convenient carrying handle.

Materials : Cotton | Dimensions: 13.35″ x 13.3″ x 6.77″ | Colors: 10 options

Best Crescent Meditation Cushion

FelizMax Crescent Zafu Meditation Pillow

The FelizMax Crescent Zafu Meditation Pillow is a uniquely shaped cushion that provides support to your hips and lower back. It’s made from eco-friendly materials and has a buckwheat hull filling that conforms to your body’s shape. This cushion comes in several colors and has a removable cover for easy cleaning.

Materials : Cotton | Dimensions: 7″× 11″× 5.5″ | Colors: 6 options

Best Long Bolster

Gaiam Yoga Bolster Long Meditation Pillow Cushion

• Provides support for the back, hips, and legs during meditation
• Soft yet firm filling for comfortable positioning
• Removable and washable cover for easy maintenance
• Can be used for yoga practice as well as meditation
• May be too large or bulky for some individuals
• Limited color options are available
• Some users may find the filling to be too soft or not provide enough support
• Higher price point compared to some other cushions

The Gaiam Yoga Bolster Long Meditation Pillow Cushion is a versatile cushion that can be used for various yoga poses as well as meditation.

It’s made from eco-friendly materials and has a cotton filling that provides comfortable support. This cushion comes in several colors and has a removable cover for easy cleaning.

Materials : ‎Microfiber cover filled with cotton batting | Dimensions: 28.7″ x 12.2″ x 7.8″ | Colors: 3 options

My Favorite Meditation Cushion

Mira Zafu Buckwheat Meditation Cushion

• Made from natural, eco-friendly materials
• Buckwheat filling conforms to the body and provides firm support
• Available in a range of colors and patterns to suit individual tastes
• May be too firm for some individuals who prefer a softer cushion
• May be too small for larger individuals or those with limited flexibility

This is the cushion that I personally use. The Mira Zafu Buckwheat Meditation Cushion is made from organic cotton and has a buckwheat hull filling that conforms to your body’s shape. This cushion is designed to promote proper spinal alignment and reduce pressure on your knees and ankles. It comes in several colors and has a convenient carrying handle.

Materials : ‎Cotton | Dimensions: 24.65″ x 15.59″ x 10.83″ | Colors: Grey

Who Should Use a Meditation Cushion?

Anyone who practices meditation, whether regularly or occasionally, can benefit from using a meditation cushion. It’s especially important for those who meditate for long periods of time or who have back or knee issues.

A meditation cushion can provide support and comfort, making it easier to maintain a proper meditation posture for extended periods of time.

Additionally, using a cushion can help reduce the risk of injury or strain caused by sitting in an uncomfortable position. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced meditator, a comfortable cushion can make a significant difference in your practice.

9 Best Meditation Poses: How to Sit In Meditation

What Makes a Meditation Cushion Comfortable?

A comfortable meditation cushion should provide support to your hips and lower back, promote proper spinal alignment, and reduce pressure on your knees and ankles.

It should also be made from high-quality, eco-friendly materials and have a filling that conforms to your body’s shape. Additional features like removable covers, carrying handles, and adjustable firmness can also make a cushion more comfortable and convenient to use.

What Are Meditation Cushions?

Meditation cushions, also known as meditation pillows, zafu pillows, or zafu cushions, are a type of cushion specifically designed to provide support and comfort during meditation practice.

They are typically small and round cushion or crescent-shaped and can be filled with a variety of materials, such as buckwheat hulls, kapok, or foam.

What Are Meditation Cushions For?

Better posture.

The main purpose of a meditation cushion is to elevate the hips and provide a stable base for the spine during seated meditation.

This helps to maintain proper alignment and reduce discomfort and strain on the lower back, hips, and knees. Whether or not you need a meditation cushion largely depends on your comfort level and how long you intend to meditate.

Different meditation practices

Meditation cushions come in a range of sizes, shapes, and materials to suit individual preferences and needs.

Some cushions may be more firm or soft, while others may be filled with natural or synthetic materials. The cover material can also vary, ranging from cotton to silk to synthetic blends.

Better experience

In addition to providing support during meditation, many people find that a comfortable cushion can also enhance their overall meditation experience by helping to create a calming and relaxing environment.

Some cushions may also have additional features, such as carrying handles or removable covers for easy maintenance.

How to Choose the Best Meditation Cushion

Choosing the best meditation cushion is a personal journey, as what works best for you may not work as well for someone else. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing your meditation cushion:

• Your Meditation Posture : The first thing to consider is your preferred meditation posture. Do you like to sit cross-legged, kneel, or sit in a chair? Your posture will determine the type of cushion that will be most comfortable for you.
• Your Height and Weight : Your physical attributes can also influence the type of cushion you need. Taller individuals or those with longer legs may require a higher cushion, while those who are heavier may need a cushion that offers more support.
• Your Flexibility : If you’re less flexible, a higher cushion can help. It can reduce the strain on your hips and knees and make it easier to maintain a straight spine.
• The Type of Meditation You Practice : Some types of meditation require movement (like Kundalini or Zen), while others are more static. If your practice involves movement, you’ll need a cushion that is sturdy and stable.
• Material and Filling : The material of the cushion should be durable and the filling should provide a balance between comfort and support. Buckwheat hulls are a popular filling choice because they conform to your body shape while providing firm support.

The Different Types of Meditation Cushions

There are several types of meditation cushions available, each with its own benefits. Here are a few of the most common types:

• Zafu : This is a traditional round cushion that is often filled with buckwheat hulls or kapok fiber. It’s great for cross-legged positions.
• Zabuton : This is a flat and rectangular cushion that is often used underneath a zafu to provide comfort for your knees and ankles.
• Crescent Cushion : This cushion has a crescent shape that provides more support for the thighs than a zafu. It’s a good choice for people who find the zafu uncomfortable.
• Bench Cushion : This is a cushioned bench that is a good option for those who prefer to kneel or have difficulty sitting cross-legged.
• Gomden : This is a firm rectangular cushion that is a good choice for those who meditate in a simple cross-legged position.
• V-Shaped Cushion : This cushion supports a wide range of postures and can be particularly helpful for people with back issues.

The Takeaway

Choosing the right meditation cushion can greatly enhance your meditation practice by providing a comfortable and supportive posture.

I hope that this list of the 14 best meditation cushions for a comfortable meditation session has helped you find a cushion that suits your needs.

If you’re asking “Do I need a meditation cushion?” or looking for the best meditation cushion for Vipassana, this list can guide you to the right product. Happy meditating!

Eddie Doru is a Certified Meditation Teacher and founder of ZenGuided.com. He is a devoted meditation and mindfulness practitioner and teacher dedicated to helping individuals achieve inner peace and well-being in today's fast-paced world. With over six years of daily meditation experience, Eddie's teachings are rooted in personal practice and ongoing learning, including workshops, retreats, and engagement with meditation communities. Residing in North London with his wife, Eddie continually deepens his understanding of meditation, mindfulness, and well-being, sharing these invaluable insights with the global audience through ZenGuided.com.

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The Top 6 Yogi Tested Meditation Cushions & Pillows

Originally, the Sanskrit word asana was not intended to describe the countless yoga postures we now practice, but instead as a name for the comfortable and supportive seat used in meditation practice . It makes perfect sense that “seat” is the root of the word asana —having the right place to sit during meditation is truly the root, or foundation, of a great practice. The right seat will improve your posture, properly align your spine, reduce fatigue, and minimize aches in the low back and knees. While you can certainly use pillows and blankets that you have on hand, using a dedicated meditation cushion will provide the best results and might just feel special enough to encourage meditation as a regular habit.

The Purpose of a Meditation Cushion

The main function of a meditation cushion is to elevate your pelvis, bringing your hips above your knees and encouraging proper curvature of the lumbar spine. When you are properly supported in your meditation pose, you’ll be less distracted by aches and pains in the knees or low back. By minimizing these physical distractions you will be able to sit for a longer period of time, reach a deeper meditative state, and thus maximize the benefits of your meditation practice.

In the epic Bhagavad Gita , Krishna instructs to “lay kusha grass on the ground and then cover it with a deerskin and a soft cloth” to prepare a seat for meditation. Fortunately, we can now purchase cushions—also called zafus—that are specifically designed for meditation. With a recent explosion of interest in the practice of meditation, there are now a vast number of options in a variety of shapes and sizes to complement various seated positions and spiritual traditions.

Through extensive testing, we’ve found six great meditation cushions with a wide range of heights, shapes, materials, and colors to suit just about any budget and meditation preference. As we tested, we looked for four essential elements that make up a great cushion:

1. A removable and washable cover 2. A zippered inner liner that allows you to adjust the filling 3. A sturdy handle for easy transport 4. Thick, durable fabric with sturdy stitching

Most of the meditation cushions we’ve chosen for you check off all four of the above boxes, and we think you’ll love them!

The Best Meditation Cushions: Tested by Yogis

Crystal cove meditation pillow by brentwood home.

Eco Zafu by DharmaCrafts

Zafu meditation pillow by Yogaleena

Slate Grey meditation cushion by ProjectFull

Meditation Crescent Cushion by Moonleap

XL Meditation Cushion by Shastana

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10 Tips for Harnessing the Mental Health Benefits of Yoga

Finding the Best Time to Meditate: Tips and Advice on When to Sit

Purusharthas: The Four Goals of Life

Trimurti: The Hindu Trinity of Brahma Vishnu Shiva

Brahman: Definition, Meaning, and Philosophy

Yoga Nidra: Meaning, Benefits, Videos and Tips

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3 responses to “the top 6 yogi tested meditation cushions & pillows”.

Greetings. How do i go about purchasing and prices for products shown? Kind regsrds, Gabrielle.

Just follow the links to the supplier’s website to purchase.

During my search for the perfect yoga pillow, I stumbled upon this blog, and the insights shared here have been extremely helpful. In order to enhance your yoga practice, you need the right equipment to support your body.

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The Best Meditation Cushions for Putting Your Mind at Ease

Get cozy and unwind with these comfy accessories designed for improved wellness.

By Ben Emminger

Every product is carefully selected by our editors. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission.  Learn more

There’s no doubt about the potential benefits of meditation . The practice has been cited as a worthwhile activity for lessening stress , boosting mental clarity and even alleviating chronic pain . However, touting a discipline as beneficial and actually starting it are two different endeavors entirely.

If you’re curious about meditation as part of your daily regimen, one of the first things you’ll need to create is a comfortable space for practice. After all, you’ll be sitting in silence, often cross-legged, for extended periods of time in order to clear your head and find that all-important flow state. Rather than signing up for a complete remodel of your extra bedroom or floor plan , you can instead create this calming atmosphere with a few key items, like a worthwhile meditation cushion.

Products in the Guide

BEST OVERALL MEDITATION CUSHION

BEST UPGRADE MEDITATION CUSHION

BEST BUDGET MEDITATION CUSHION

BEST ZABUTON MEDITATION CUSHION

BEST BOLSTER-STYLE MEDITATION CUSHION

BEST CRESCENT-SHAPED MEDITATION CUSHION

BEST V-SHAPED MEDITATION CUSHION

BEST MEDITATION CUSHION SET

These plush and cozy pillows and mats can help you find a comfortable position for unhindered thought, and can also take some of the strain off your back and knees during sessions. Additionally, meditation cushions allow you to separate your activity from your other surroundings — having a dedicated spot to reflect and think can be beneficial to your practice overall.

But with pillows aplenty from a slew of brands offering unique fills, shapes, sizes and more, which one is the best for at-home practice ? Rather than leave you stressing over which profile is prime for your setup, we’ve gone on a journey of our own to determine the best meditation cushions available today.

How We Tested

I’ve been using meditation as part of my weekly regimen for a while now, and over that time I’ve evolved from sitting atop a bed pillow to some of these more dedicated profiles listed below. Points of emphasis in curating this guide included each cushion’s shape, build quality and (of course) price point. I also varied my time spent in thought, when appropriate, to see how efficient these pillows were in keeping my frame comfortable regardless of how long I stayed in practice.

Florensi Meditation Cushion

• $39.99 at Amazon $54.99 (27% off)
• Buckwheat filling is sturdy yet soft for extended sessions in practice
• Heavier build can be cumbersome to move from room to room

This meditation cushion from Florensi is my top pick for at-home practice due to its classic aesthetic, soft velvet exterior and approachable price point. Plus, the buckwheat filling is great for creating a seat you can truly sink into but not through, allowing you to remain in position for longer periods of thought.

Additionally, this Florensi Meditation Cushion features a removable, machine-washable shell, so cleanup is as easy as loading your washing machine. I do recommend taking advantage of the convenient carrying loop, though, when toting this silhouette from room to room. This profile is a little on the heavier side, so be sure you have a confident grip on your pillow before changing up your scenery.

Avocado Organic Yoga Meditation Pillow

• $79.00 at Avocado
• Crafted from organic, eco-friendly materials for more conscious sessions
• Seams can begin to wear after extended use

A great way to create an ideal meditation environment is to use equipment that’s good for you and the earth as well. This impressive silhouette from Avocado is constructed from fine GOTS organic-certified cotton and all-natural, plant-based buckwheat hulls to create a profile with more than enough intent. Plus, I appreciate the 7-inch height of this pillow, which makes it easier for my taller frame to achieve the right seat.

The Avocado Organic Yoga Meditation Pillow also boasts an elegant aesthetic thanks to the natural makeup, but I would bring some gentleness to the profile when handling. Rough use and extended wear and tear can show easily across the seams, according to some, so make sure to treat this eco-minded pillow with as much respect as you would ( should ) the Earth itself.

Dedemco Hand-Woven Natural Cattail Mat Cushion

• $13.48 at Amazon
• High-quality sponge filling is cozy and welcoming
• Rougher exterior can be jarring for some

This stylish meditation cushion can be a huge boost to your therapeutic setting without hitting your wallet with a hefty dent. At less than $15, it’s one of the cheapest options on the market that still delivers a quality profile. In practice, the sponge fill provides a soothing seat for extended thought, and the natural straw exterior helps ensure your posture is supported for as long as you need.

Granted, signing up to sit on this rougher profile may seem intimidating for meditation novices, but this is still a great option despite its looks. If anything, you can opt for a pair of sweats or longer bottoms to give your skin a barrier from the natural fibers, at least until you grow accustomed to the sensation.

Maya Lumbini Meditation Mat Amazon BEST ZABUTON MEDITATION CUSHION Maya Lumbini Meditation Mat

• $89.99 at Amazon
• Available in tailored sizes to suit your personal frame
• Larger surface area carries a larger price tag

If you’re looking for more comfort under your frame, consider a Zabuton meditation cushion. This cozy profile from Maya Lumbini showcases ample coverage that can fit most stances, and the brand even offers a “tall” silhouette designed to house lengthier athletes. The all-natural Kapok fill is great for supporting and cradling your joints, too, so there’s no developing strains as you sink into a worthwhile session.

I also appreciate the removable cover that’s machine washable, as the larger silhouette can be more prone to dirt and debris since it’s closer to your flooring. Be mindful, though, that this larger pillow is more on the expensive side, so if you don’t want or need the extra leg room (pun intended) you may be able to save a few bucks with another option.

Hugger Mugger Standard Yoga Bolster

• $92.95 at Amazon
• Durable exterior that's sure to withstand years of mindful use
• Only available in one size

Bolster-style meditation cushions can be some of the sturdiest options for your practice, and it’s tough to beat this colorful silhouette from Hugger Mugger. I enjoy meditating with this profile thanks to its durable exterior and more rigid frame, as there’s no sinking or blowout you’d see with other, softer picks. Plus, the rectangular shape is versatile enough for restorative yoga, too, which is great for getting the most out of the near-$100 price tag.

Unfortunately, though, some may find it awkward when searching for that premium seat positioning due to the more oblong silhouette. Additionally, there’s no room for customizing the shape to your frame since this Standard Yoga Bolster is only available in one size. Still, for those that practice yoga as much as they meditate, this is definitely worth your consideration.

Seat of Your Soul Crescent Meditation Cushion

• $0.00 at Amazon
• Firm buckwheat fill is excellent for relieving back pain during sessions
• May be too narrow for those with wider stances

If you need more of a wedge shape to bolster your posture in practice, this crescent-shaped profile from Seat of Your Soul is right up your alley. I appreciate the firm yet comfortable buckwheat fill that’s customizable to your liking, and the rounded frame does wonders for supporting your lower back and legs throughout your mindful session. Plus, there’s no shortage of available colors, so you can customize your meditation space with a splash of vibrancy that matches your personality.

The Seat of Your Soul Crescent Meditation Cushion measures 17 inches wide by 10.5 inches deep by 5 inches tall, which is a worthwhile footprint for a pillow of this shape. Be sure to pay close attention to these dimensions, though, as some athletes have stated that the more structured design was still a little narrow for their liking.

Hugger Mugger V-Shaped Meditation Cushion

• $64.95 at Amazon
• Extended arms are maneuverable enough for a variety of poses
• Cover is hand wash only

Like crescent-shaped cushions, v-shaped cushions can also be a treat for supporting your hips and thighs throughout your meditation session. This Hugger Mugger profile has been my go-to as of late, as the “arms” of the silhouette are maneuverable enough to fit in narrow or wider stances, alike. Plus, the buckwheat hull fill is sturdy enough to hold my frame with ease once I nestle in for a practice.

I also appreciate the convenient carrying handle that makes toting this meditation cushion from room to room much simpler. I do take extra precaution to keep this pillow clean, however. Despite the 100% organic cotton cover being removable, it’s hand wash only, so any apparent stains may take a little more muscle to remove.

Leewadee Meditation Cushion Set

• $88.99 at Amazon
• Includes a sleek Zafu and Zabuton cushion in one matching set
• Covers are not removable for easier care

Sure, Zafu and Zabuton cushions can do wonders for your practice on their own, but combining the two silhouettes can be a surefire way to improve your comfort day in and day out. This impressive set from Leewadee boasts matching profiles with natural Kapok fill for a setup that’s cozy, effective and downright supportive. I also appreciate the array of colors offered across the lineup, so there’s plenty of options to suit your personal taste.

With that said, though, caring for this meditation cushion set is more of a chore … literally. The covers are not removable, so to clean any built-up dust or stains, you need to hand wash each silhouette. Oh well, with aesthetics as stylish as this, I’m sure you’d be willing to put a little elbow grease into your meditation environment.

Why Use a Meditation Cushion?

Outside of serving as a dedicated spot for your mindful discipline, meditation cushions can also create a more comfortable, appealing seat for your discipline. The cushioning presented in these profiles can help lift the hips more, accentuating the natural curvature of your spine and removing any unwanted pressure.

Additionally, meditation cushions grant your knees a more comfortable surface to rest, allowing to get deeper into thoughts without developing any nagging aches. All of this works toward the goal of keeping you upright and comfortable for as long as you deem necessary.

How to Sit on a Meditation Cushion

Meditation cushions aren’t just accent pillows for your decor — there is, in fact, a proper way to sit atop them. Begin by sitting toward the front of your cushion and allow your legs to come forward comfortably in front of you. Cross your legs, like you would back in preschool, and gently wiggle your hips into a natural position within the cushioning. You should also tilt your pelvis forward slightly to straighten your spine and ensure your hips, shoulders and head are all aligned in a proper, upright fashion. You should feel relaxed and stable without any apparent need to readjust.

What to Consider When Choosing a Meditation Cushion

Meditation cushions typically fall into one of two categories — Zafu or Zabuton. Zafu meditation cushions are smaller from a footprint standpoint, but also showcase a taller height in order to better elevate your hips during practice. Zabuton cushions are flatter and wider, almost like a plush mat or strewn-out comforter . These meditation profiles can be excellent for keeping your knees comfy during your session, but you may need some extra support if you routinely suffer from back aches.

There’s no hard and fast rule as to which silhouette is best, so be sure to take your personal needs into consideration when choosing between the two. Additionally, you can even pair both profiles in one meditation setup for a premium sense of coziness.

If you’re looking at Zafu meditation cushions, you’ll also need to consider your pillow’s shape. There are a handful to choose from, with round, circular profiles being the most classic. Rectangular meditation cushions can also be worthwhile picks, especially since their shape lends to added versatility as a bolster for yoga flows, too. U-shaped and V-shaped cushions act more as a wedge at the base of your seat, which can be optimal for alleviating any unwanted pressure across the back, hips and knees.

For athletes wanting a Zabuton meditation cushion, these are generally rectangular or square by nature. Make sure to find a profile that appeals to your needs and fits within your intended space.

Size and Height

The height of your meditation cushion can influence your comfort and ability to get into the proper stance from the start. Most Zafu meditation cushions feature a height of 5 inches, but some may be taller or shorter, respectively. While it’s completely up to personal preference, taller athletes or those with flexibility issues may fare better with a taller silhouette.

As far as size is concerned, be sure to choose a cushion that supports your body. Ever sit in a chair that’s too small? Would you want that annoyance as you’re trying to clear your mind and find inner peace? I didn’t think so. Additionally, especially for Zabuton profiles, make sure you have enough floor space to accommodate your plush accessory.

When it comes to materials, pay attention to the fill type of your meditation cushions. These can range from soft memory foam, to buckwheat, polyester or cotton batting. You want to ensure the fill is soft enough to support your comfort, yet rigid enough to not lose its shape under the pressure of your bodyweight.

Meditation cushion exteriors are typically made from cotton and linen, while some may opt for a more velvety aesthetic. If you’re looking to meditate in apparel that has your skin touching your cushion, be sure to choose a profile that won’t irritate your skin as you sit throughout your practice.

Care and Washability

Meditation isn’t the most sweat-inducing discipline in fitness, but over time, your cushion is bound to pick up some dust, scuffs and the occasional stain. As such, it’s best to look for cushions with a removable, machine-washable shell. This helps retain the integrity of the fill while also keeping the outer appearance as put together as possible.

If your meditation doesn’t feature a removable cover, most stains should be treatable with a damp cloth. As with any piece of furniture , however, be sure to read your silhouette’s care instructions before going up against any present muck and grime.

Related Topics

The 7 Best Meditation Cushions for Enhancing Your Mindfulness Journey

In the serene world of mindfulness, the right tools play an essential role in deepening your practice. Among these, selecting the best meditation cushions is crucial. These cushions are not just about adding comfort to your sitting; they are integral in enhancing the quality of your meditation sessions. Thoughtfully chosen, they can transform your practice into a truly enriching experience, supporting your journey towards mindfulness and inner peace .

Practicing meditation is a transformative experience, offering a myriad of benefits for both mind and body. The importance of a quality meditation cushion cannot be overstated in this process. It’s not just about comfort; it’s about creating an optimal environment for your practice. A good meditation cushion helps align your posture, making it easier to maintain focus and stay in the moment. This vital tool can transform an ordinary space into a serene sanctuary, perfect for deepening your meditation practice.

Along with elevating your overall meditation experience , here are some key benefits of using a meditation cushion:

• Improved Posture: Helps maintain a natural spine alignment.
• Enhanced Comfort: Reduces discomfort in hips, knees, and ankles.
• Deeper Concentration: Aids in maintaining focus by providing physical stability.
• Increased Durability: Offers a dedicated and lasting space for practice.
• Versatility: Suitable for various meditation styles and positions.
• Mind-Body Connection: Encourages a deeper sense of awareness and relaxation.
• Portability: Easy to move and use in different environments.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Adds a calming visual element to your meditation space.
• Injury Prevention: Minimizes the risk of strains and pains from prolonged sitting.
• Personalization: Allows you to choose a cushion that resonates with your personal style and comfort needs.

Among the variety of options analyzed by experts, there’s a high chance that one of these will emerge as the best meditation cushion for your specific needs. Let’s explore these carefully selected products to find the one that aligns perfectly with your meditation practice.

Explore the 7 Best Meditation Cushions

• Expert Pick: Florensi Meditation Cushion
• Best For Back Pain: Hihealer Meditation Cushion
• Best Versatile Design: Codi Meditation Cushion
• Best Meditation Cushion Set: Zafu & Zabuton Meditation Cushion Set
• Best Foldable: Gabur Foldable Meditation Cushion
• Best For Travel: Zafu Meditation Cushion
• Best Budget: FelizMax Zafu Meditation Cushion
• Buying Guide: How To Choose The Best Meditation Cushions of 2024
• FAQs: Frequently Asked Question
• Author: Emily Thompson

Meditation Cushion Reviews - Best of 2024

Expert pick, florensi meditation cushion.

As a meditation expert who has tested dozens of products, we can confidently say that the Florensi Meditation Cushion stands out as the top choice among its peers.

With its buckwheat hull filling, it provides firm yet flexible support, perfectly molding to the contours of your body.

The detachable cover, crafted from ultra-soft velvet fabric, not only offers exceptional comfort but also brings an element of luxury to your meditation space.

The cushion’s design is well-considered, accommodating a variety of meditation and yoga postures, including the half-lotus and full-lotus, thereby enhancing your practice.

It promotes correct posture and alleviates joint stress, making it an ideal choice for practitioners of all levels seeking a premium meditation experience.

• Sustainable Materials: 100% buckwheat hulls, eco-friendly and natural.
• Comfortable Cover: Ultra-soft velvet fabric, gentle to the touch.
• Adjustable Filling: Allows for personalized comfort and support.
• Posture Support: Promotes natural seated position and circulation.
• Versatile Use: Suitable for meditation, yoga, and as a low seating option.
• Portable Design: Easy to carry with a discreet handle.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Beautiful mandala pattern, fitting various decor styles.
• Durable Construction: Built to last and maintain shape over time.
• Extended Meditation Sessions: Comfortable for longer periods of sitting.
• Brand Commitment: Florensi’s dedication to physical and mental well-being.
• Weight: While the buckwheat filling offers excellent support, it does add a bit more weight to the cushion, making it less ideal for those who prefer a lighter option for portability.
• Size: May not suit every body type or preference.
• Maintenance: Removable cover requires occasional cleaning.

Best For Back Pain

Hihealer meditation cushion.

The Hihealer Large Meditation Cushion is an exceptional product that significantly enriches the meditation experience.

It features firm support, greatly aiding those who struggle with back pain and positioning it as an excellent candidate for the best meditation cushion for back pain .

The Zabuton mat, filled with 100% cotton, ensures that knees, feet, and ankles are comfortably rested, providing a complete Zen moment and fostering continuous positive energy.

This set is not just for meditation; it’s versatile enough for yoga, relaxation, and even as a supportive floor pillow, enhancing your lower back lumbar support at home.

• Generous Size: Accommodates different body types and sitting styles.
• Enhanced Back Support: Excellent for reducing back discomfort during meditation.
• Plush Cotton Filling: Offers a gentle cushioning for extended sitting.
• Multi-Functional Design: Works well for various activities beyond meditation.
• Soft Velvet Exterior: Provides a luxurious tactile experience.
• Unique Gift Choice: An ideal present for meditation and yoga enthusiasts.
• Aesthetically Pleasing: Enhances any meditation space with its elegant look.
• Sturdy Construction: Built to withstand regular use.
• Mindfulness Aid: Helps in maintaining focus and relaxation during practice.
• Eco-Friendly Filling: Aligns with sustainable practices.
• Space Requirement: Its larger footprint might not fit in smaller areas.
• Initial Odor: Some users might notice a scent from the natural materials that typically fades over time.

Best Versatile Design

Codi meditation cushion.

The Codi Meditation Cushion is ingeniously designed to elevate the meditation experience. Its premium memory foam filling offers firm support, evenly distributing weight and reducing strain on joints and muscles, especially around the hips. This makes extended meditation sessions more comfortable and less taxing.

The round shape of the cushion enhances stability and balance, providing a steady foundation for seated meditation and promoting a centered posture. Additionally, its detachable and washable cover ensures hygiene and ease of maintenance.

Blending functionality with stylish design, Codi cushions reflect the ethos of urban millennial living, transforming everyday spaces into personal meditation sanctuaries.

• Stylish Design: Boho surface adds to home decor.
• Memory Foam Support: Alleviates joint and muscle strain.
• Promotes Relaxation: Comfortable design aids stress reduction.
• Focus Enhancement: Supports deeper, more concentrated meditation.
• Stability and Balance: Ideal shape for a variety of meditation postures.
• Hygienic: Detachable and washable cover.
• Large Seating Area: Accommodates adults comfortably.
• Versatile Use: Suitable for different meditation and yoga practices.
• Customer Service: Responsive and helpful.
• Lightweight: Easy to move and adjust during practice.
• Inconsistent Filling: Some units may require additional fluffing or foam.
• Initial Firmness: May need time to adjust to the user’s body shape.

Best Meditation Cushion Set

Zafu & zabuton meditation cushion set.

The Zafu & Zabuton Meditation Cushion Set is a thoughtfully designed duo, catering to practitioners of all levels and styles, regardless of size. Made from organic cotton, this set stands out for its sustainability and user-friendly features.

The Zafu cushion, filled with barley hulls, can be adjusted for firmness by adding or removing filling, allowing for a personalized meditation experience.

The Zabuton, with its hand-tufted and comfortable cotton filling, provides a soft base, enhancing the overall comfort during meditation.

Both cushions feature a durable and somewhat rough canvas fabric that prevents slipping and adds stability to your practice.

The Zabuton has a removable cover for easy cleaning, while the Zafu, despite being a bit more challenging to launder due to its construction, offers sturdy and reliable support.

• Adjustable Firmness: Zafu can be customized for personal comfort.
• Sustainable Materials: Organic cotton and no harmful chemicals.
• Washable Zabuton Cover: Easy to maintain and clean.
• Versatile for All Levels: Suitable for beginners to advanced practitioners.
• Sturdy and Comfortable: Provides reliable and stable support.
• Non-Slip Fabric: Enhances stability in various poses.
• Variety of Colors: Available in several beautiful options.
• Supports Physical Therapy: Aids in exercises for mobility and flexibility.
• Quality Craftsmanship: Well-made covers with strong seams.
• Enhances Mindfulness: Ideal for a focused and relaxed meditation.
• Challenging Zafu Cleaning: Requires hull removal for washing.
• Initial Overfill: Some adjustment needed to achieve desired comfort.
• Rough Fabric Texture: May be less comfortable for sensitive skin.

Best Foldable

Gabur foldable meditation cushion.

The Gabur Foldable Meditation Cushion combines functionality with aesthetic appeal, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned meditators.

This unique cushion, featuring a two-part foldable design, measures 25.5″x19.5″ when fully extended and offers a thickness range of 2″-4″. Its high-quality, double-stitched seams and 100% Kapok stuffing, derived from the Ceiba Tree, provide durability, hypoallergenic properties, and environmental friendliness.

Kapok filling is known for its firm yet supportive quality, distinct from foam or cotton fillings. The ergonomic design of the Gabur cushion allows for adjustable height, aiding in achieving a stable and comfortable seated position, which is crucial for extended meditation sessions.

The cushion’s versatility and the rich, vibrant red color with exquisite detailing make it a beautiful addition to any meditation space.

The Gabur Foldable Meditation Cushion is a thoughtfully designed product that successfully balances the need for comfort, support, and style in meditation practice, making it an appealing choice for a wide range of meditators.

• Foldable Design: Enhances portability and storage convenience.
• Kapok Filling: Offers firm, hypoallergenic, and environmentally friendly support.
• Ergonomic Support: Aids in maintaining proper posture during meditation.
• Durable Construction: High-quality seams ensure longevity.
• Attractive Design: Rich color and intricate detailing add to aesthetic appeal.
• Versatile Use: Suitable for various meditation styles and postures.
• Adjustable Height: Accommodates different body types and preferences.
• Breathable Material: Ensures comfort during long meditation sessions.
• Affordable Price: Offers great value for its features.
• Hypoallergenic: Safe for users with allergies.
• Firmness Level: May be too firm for some users’ preferences.
• Hand Wash Only: Limited cleaning options due to care instructions.

Best For Travel

Zafu meditation cushion.

Expertly crafted to enrich the meditation journey, the Zafu meditation cushion is a testament to thoughtful design and comfort.

Its distinctive feature lies in its ability to adapt seamlessly to various body shapes and sizes, ensuring every meditator finds their sweet spot of comfort.

The cushion is filled with premium buckwheat hulls that not only hold their shape over prolonged use but also allow for customizable firmness.

Whether you’re seeking a softer feel or a firmer support, adjusting the hulls is straightforward and personalized to your preference. The organic cotton cover, soft to the touch and eco-friendly, adds to the overall serene experience.

Additionally, its portability makes it an excellent option for travel, allowing you to maintain your meditation routine wherever you go.

• Supportive Design: Maintains back straightness and spinal alignment.
• Adjustable Firmness: Personalize cushion density to your liking.
• Organic Cotton Cover: Soft, comfortable, and eco-friendly.
• Long-lasting Durability: Buckwheat hulls resist compression and flattening.
• Versatile Use: Ideal for meditation, yoga, and casual seating.
• Body-Conforming: Forms to the unique contours of your body.
• Ethical Sourcing: GOTS certification ensures responsible production.
• Multi-functional: Suitable for various sitting and yoga postures.
• Hassle-Free Maintenance: Inner pouch for easy hull adjustment.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Elegant design fits into any decor.
• Hull Settling: Over time, the buckwheat hulls might settle, requiring occasional readjustment for consistent comfort.
• Fabric Texture: The cover might feel different for sensitive skin.
• Size Specifics: May not suit all body types equally.

Best Budget

Felizmax zafu meditation cushion.

The FelizMax Zafu Meditation Cushion is an exemplar of practical comfort in meditation. It strikes the perfect balance of firmness and pliability with its buckwheat hull filling, providing essential support while conforming to the body’s needs.

This cushion, ideal for a variety of users from beginners to advanced practitioners, is not just a meditation aid but also versatile enough for general floor seating.

Its ergonomic design promotes spinal alignment and reduces stress on joints, enhancing the meditation experience significantly.

The added convenience of a carry handle and adjustable filling through a zippered cover makes it an adaptable and user-friendly choice.

This cushion truly stands out as the best budget-friendly option without compromising on quality or comfort, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enhance their meditation or floor-sitting experience.

• Affordable: Excellent value for the quality provided.
• Optimal Firmness: Ideal balance between support and comfort.
• Adjustable Filling: Customizable to individual body needs.
• Ergonomic Design: Aids in proper spinal alignment.
• Portable: Equipped with a sturdy carry handle.
• Durable Cover: Machine-washable and wear-resistant.
• Quality Materials: Buckwheat hulls are natural and long-lasting.
• Versatile Usage: Suitable for meditation, yoga, and floor seating.
• User-Friendly: Easy to clean and maintain.
• Suitable for All: Accommodates various body sizes and shapes.
• Initial Firmness: May require a period of adjustment.
• Size Specifics: Might not be ideal for taller individuals.
• Fabric Texture: The cover’s feel may not suit all preferences.

Buying Guide-How to Choose the Best Meditation Cushions of 2024

We understand the importance of paying close attention to several key features when searching for the best meditation cushion . It’s not just about the aesthetics; the right cushion can profoundly impact your meditation experience.

Whether you’re an expert practitioner or just beginning your meditation journey, choosing the right cushion is crucial for comfort, posture, and overall effectiveness of your practice.

Let’s dive into the essential aspects to consider to ensure you find a cushion that truly meets your meditative needs.

Material and Filling Type: Comfort and Support

The choice of material and filling is important in selecting the best rated meditation cushions . Whether it’s buckwheat hulls for firm support, or memory foam for softer comfort, the material directly influences the cushion’s comfort level and how it supports your posture during meditation.

Cushion Size and Height: Matching Your Body Type

The size and height of a meditation cushion are crucial, especially when considering specific needs such as the best meditation cushion for tight hips .

A cushion that’s too high or too low can impact your comfort and alignment.

For those with tight hips, a cushion of the right height can help alleviate discomfort and maintain a more relaxed, sustainable posture during meditation.

Shape and Design: Personal Preferences and Posture

The shape and design of a meditation cushion play a significant role in addressing personal comfort and posture needs. Different shapes cater to various physical conditions and preferences. For example, a crescent-shaped cushion might offer better thigh support, benefiting those with back pain, while a flatter cushion could be more suitable for individuals with bad knees. Choosing the right shape enhances meditation effectiveness and comfort.

• Crescent-shaped cushions: Ideal for better thigh support and alleviating back pain.
• Flatter, wider cushions: Suitable for those with bad knees or who prefer a more open-legged position.
• Round cushions: Traditional design, great for maintaining an upright and alert posture.
• Rectangular or square cushions: Offer a broader base, beneficial for extra stability.

Durability and Quality of Construction

The longevity and resilience of a meditation cushion depend heavily on its durability and the quality of its construction.

A well-made cushion should withstand regular use over extended periods without losing shape or comfort. This is particularly important for dedicated practitioners who meditate daily. High-quality stitching, robust materials, and a sturdy filling are key indicators of a cushion built to last.

It’s worth investing in a cushion that might be a bit more expensive upfront but will prove more cost-effective in the long run, rather than opting for cheaper, lower-quality options that need frequent replacement.

The durability of a meditation cushion not only ensures consistent support for your practice but also reflects a commitment to sustainability, as it reduces the need for frequent replacements.

Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance

When it comes to the best meditation cushions , ease of cleaning and maintenance is also an important factor that often gets overlooked. A cushion that is easy to clean and maintain not only ensures a hygienic meditation space but also contributes to the longevity of the cushion.

Look for cushions with removable and washable covers, as they allow for simple and effective cleaning. Materials that are machine-washable and resistant to shrinkage and fading are ideal.

Additionally, consider the inner material; some cushions with natural fillings like buckwheat hulls may require special care when cleaning.

A meditation cushion that is low-maintenance yet durable will continue to provide a clean, comfortable, and serene environment for your meditation practice over time.

Portability: Considerations for On-the-Go Use

For those who are often on the move, the portability of a meditation cushion is a key factor. The best travel meditation cushion should strike a balance between comfort and ease of transportation.

Lightweight and compact designs are preferable, as they can be easily packed and carried. Cushions with handles or carrying bags are especially convenient for travel.

Furthermore, foldable or inflatable cushions can be great options, as they take up less space in luggage. It’s important that the portable cushion still provides the necessary support and comfort for effective meditation, even away from your usual practice space.

• Lightweight and compact cushions: Ideal for fitting in travel bags.
• Foldable or inflatable designs: Save space and offer versatility.
• Cushions with carrying handles or bags: Enhance ease of transportation.
• Durable materials: Withstand the rigors of travel without damage.

Ergonomics: Spinal Alignment and Posture Support

The ergonomic aspect of a meditation cushion is vital, especially for individuals facing back issues or those who are obese. A well-designed cushion ensures proper spinal alignment, crucial for reducing back discomfort and supporting a healthy posture.

For people with back pain, a cushion that encourages the natural curvature of the spine can significantly alleviate discomfort. Those carrying extra weight need a cushion that can adequately support their body, maintaining comfort without compromising posture.

Ergonomic cushions often come in various heights and levels of firmness, catering to different body types and specific needs. An adjustable cushion can be a great benefit, allowing customization for optimal support and comfort, ultimately enhancing the meditation experience and overall health.

Aesthetic and Style: Integrating with Your Space

The aesthetic and style of a meditation cushion should harmonize with your personal space, creating an inviting and tranquil environment for meditation. The right style can enhance your focus and set the tone for your practice. Consider choosing colors and patterns that match or complement your meditation area. Here are a few examples of how to align your cushion’s aesthetic with your space:

• Natural Tones: For a calming and earthy vibe, suitable for spaces with plants and wooden elements.
• Vibrant Colors: To energize and inspire, ideal for a more dynamic or creative meditation space.
• Minimalist Design: For a clean and simple look, matching modern or minimalistic decor.
• Traditional Patterns: To add a sense of tradition and cultural depth, especially in a space dedicated to spiritual practices .

Navigating through the vast array of options in your quest for the best meditation cushion can certainly feel overwhelming. However, with the insights and considerations laid out in this article, your decision-making process should now be much simpler.

Our expert recommendations are crafted to guide you, emphasizing the importance of balancing your personal needs with professional advice. By carefully weighing these factors, you’ll be well on your way to finding a meditation cushion that not only meets but exceeds your expectations, ensuring a comfortable, supportive, and enriching meditation experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: are meditation cushions worth it.

Meditation cushions are a valuable addition to your practice. They provide necessary support and comfort, which can greatly enhance the quality and duration of your meditation. Key benefits include:

• Enhanced Comfort: Reduces discomfort in hips and legs during long sessions.
• Improved Posture: Helps in maintaining a proper meditative posture.
• Increased Focus: Allows for longer, undistracted meditation sessions.

Q: What is the difference between Zafu and Zabuton?

Zafu and Zabuton cushions are complementary but serve different functions in meditation practice. A Zafu is typically used as a seat, elevating the hips and aligning the spine, while a Zabuton provides cushioning for the knees and ankles on the floor:

• Zafu: A round, elevated cushion used for sitting.
• Zabuton : A flat mat placed under a Zafu, cushioning knees and ankles.

Q: What height meditation cushion should I get?

The ideal height of a meditation cushion depends on your body type and flexibility. A proper cushion height helps maintain comfort and posture during meditation:

• Taller Cushions: For those with longer legs or less flexibility.
• Shorter Cushions: Better suited for individuals with shorter legs or greater flexibility.

Q: Do you need a Zafu to meditate?

While not strictly necessary, a Zafu can greatly enhance meditation:

• Improved Comfort: Especially during longer sessions.
• Better Posture: Supports the natural curve of the spine.
• Versatility: This can be used for various meditation styles.

Q: What is the best way to find a meditation cushion?

The best way to find a meditation cushion is by understanding your needs in terms of comfort, posture, and style. This article offers valuable guidance on key factors to consider.

Emily Thompson - The Compassionate Practitioner: Merging Everyday Living with Mindful Awareness

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The Best Meditation Cushions and Pillows, According to Zen Teachers and Mindfulness Experts

By Jason Coles

Jason Coles

Contributor

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What The Experts Say

According to yoga instructor Ellie Smith , meditation cushions, which are also known as Zafus, can be an important tool for supporting a comfortable and effective practice because they support parts of the body that can get tired or sore when sitting for long periods of time. 

However, when choosing one for yourself, she added that it’s important to consider your individual needs and preferences, as well as your body type: “Take the time to try out different styles and materials,” she said. “Choose a cushion that feels comfortable, supportive, and aligned with your personal values.” (Personally, before switching to blocks and blankets, Smith used a large buckwheat-filled cushion—similar to the Florensi option on our list below—because it was “large enough, fairly robust, and had a removable cover, which made it easy to clean.”)

When choosing a meditation cushion, it’s also a good idea to consider what position one prefers to meditate in. Sitting up with a straight back? Leaning against a wall? Laying down with legs up the wall? Different cushions within the list below cater to different positions better than others, so establishing which one is preferred will help narrow down the search.

The Best Meditation Cushions and Chairs: At a Glance

Florensi meditation cushion, seat of your soul crescent med, seat of your soul meditation cushion, ajna yoga bolster pillo, reehut meditation cushion, intelligent design edilia foldable pillow, degrees of comfort meditation floor pillow, buckwheat zafu and zabuton meditation set, maya lumbini luxury mediation cushion, hugger mugger v-shaped meditation cushion, frequently asked questions about meditation cushions & chairs, how big should a meditation cushion be .

Ideally, a meditation cushion should be large enough that you can sit comfortably on it. The good news is that many cushions have inserts or special fillings that allow you to adjust their height and solidity, making it easier to find the perfect size. 

What to Look For in a Meditation Cushion

When buying a meditation cushion, Dr. Jenelle Kim , a meditation teacher and doctor of Chinese Medicine and mindfulness, recommends considering comfort, size, material and style. The level of comfort of a given cushion is informed by the size, shape, density of the filling and texture of the outside material. Some budget-friendly ones are made with cotton while other more expensive ones are made with vegan suede for a more luxurious feel. Some are filled with buckwheat for a denser, heavier cushion that can provide more support whereas others are made with foam for a softer but more resilient structure built to hold its shape for longer.

How Do You Use a Meditation Cushion?

A meditation cushion is a dense, compressed pillow built for sitting or laying on during meditation. Some are round and dense to support the sit bones as the user uses their core and back muscles to sit up straight. Other cushions are longer and can be used underneath the shoulders, hips, or knees in a reclined pose.  There are also meditation cushion sets that come with a cushion for sitting and a mat for keeping the ankles off the floor, as well as softer foam cushions that provide less support but are more comfortable for shorter sessions.

$37.99 $54.99 31% off

Why It Stands Out: Yoga instructor Ellie Smith personally suggested this cushion for its large size and adjustable filling. It’s also in a pricing sweet spot where it’s not cheap but not prohibitively expensive either. Made For: People who need patterns on everything. The Florensi cushion is large, comfortable, and has a decorative floral pattern that can be used as a focal point if you’re meditating from another place in the room. It can also serve as a great throw pillow between uses.

Why It Stands Out: This moon-shaped cushion is comfortable, colorful, and is also budget-friendly compared to others on this list.  Made For: Lunatics. Get it? This crescent-shaped cushion provides tailored support to the tailbone and lets the knees hang lower than other options, which can be helpful for holding a straighter upright posture. It also has an organic cotton cover with a zipper to allow for filler adjustments.

Why It Stands Out: This sturdy buckwheat cushion can be adjusted for size and density and has a simple circular shape. Made For: Those who like simplicity. This basic meditation cushion is made with buckwheat hulls for a dense, heavy supportive base that’ll bolster up a tailbone and make it easier to sit up straight. The cushion can support up to 350 pounds of body weight and the cover is tightly double-stitched for extra durability. It also has a carrying strap which makes it easy to position, as it’s heavier than others made with cotton or foam.

Why It Stands Out: This vegan suede rectangular cushion is longer than other options which means it can be used for sitting, supporting the upper back while laying down or underneath the knees in a reclined pose.  Made For: Taller people, and those who like options.  Not everyone wants to meditate in the same position, so a good mix of pillow shapes is essential. This pillow is made using organic vegan suede and has a more rectangular design that allows for some leg support if sitting with the legs in front. The foam filling makes it lightweight, it has a handle for carrying, and the cover is removable so it’s easy to clean.

Why It Stands Out: It comes in three different size options and has a more rigid shape than other options. Made For: People who want a smaller, more compact meditation cushion.  This meditation cushion has more rigid edges than other options on this list for propping the user up more effectively. It’s made with buckwheat, the densest material for providing plenty of support, and it comes in three different sizes to accommodate different body types and preferences. This cushion is round and meant to be sat on, so it’s not as flexible as other options in terms of its positioning and use.

$67.99 $89.99 24% off

Why It Stands Out: This cushion is like if a futon went to a yoga class. It’s longer and thinner than a standard futon making it great for restorative classes and poses. Made For: People who prefer slower, more reclined yoga poses like legs up the wall.  This isn’t so much a cushion as it is a lengthy, thinner sleeping pad made for lounging and relaxing. Its flexible shape is made for leaning against a wall and is perfect for a daily meditation practice that transitions into an hour with a book or browsing Netflix. 

$26.99 $32.99 18% off

Why It Stands Out: This square-shaped cushion is perfect for sitting with the feet and knees also off the floor, unlike other cushions where they’re meant to fold cross-legged in front of the cushion. Made For: People who hate circles.  This square pillow is great for those who can take up a little more space and want support for all of their appendages during meditation. Its 22 x 22-inch size makes it easier to fidget on, because not all those who meditate are still, and it can be used indoors or outdoors. It’s also made with memory foam which is denser than most lightweight cushions but more malleable than buckwheat.

Why It Stands Out: This cushion set has multiple components and allows for a lot more flexibility when it comes to positioning. Made For: People who like a few different components they can rearrange based on their preferences.  Each of the cushions in this set are made dense and hefty with buckwheat hulls that hold their shape and act as a dependable bolster. The set comes with a smaller cushion, otherwise known as a Zafu in China, and a Zabuton, a larger square mat that cushions the ankles and knees. Both work together to comfortably position the user and come in a few different colorways.

$79.99 $109.99 27% off

Why It Stands Out: This luxe meditation cushion is made with premium Kapok filling, a supportive yet breathable material that’s softer and lighter than down and perfectly compressible for pillows. Made For: People who don’t mind spending a bit more.  This cushion is a little pricier than others on our list, but it’s substantially softer and more comfortable as a result. It uses all-natural Maya Kapok as the filling which is more breathable than buckwheat and foam.

Why It Stands Out: A unique design makes it look perfectly suited for cross-legged sitting. Made For: People who really like V For Vendetta. Verily! This v-shaped cushion is designed to specifically support cross-legged sitting. It comes in an array of colors, is made from polyester, and has a slanted shape to offer support under the sit bones. It also has an adjustable filling to make sure everyone can find their perfect comfort level.

Meditation Cushions: Final Thoughts

Within the world of meditation cushions, the choice comes down to a denser but more supportive cushion built for bolstering up the hip and tail bones during longer meditation sessions, or a softer cushion that prioritizes comfort over longevity. The more buttressing the body receives, the longer one is able to meditate before the abs start to cave in, the shoulders fold forward, and the back rounds. When considering which meditation cushion to buy, consider the length and depth of your practice and which material feels like it caters best to that.

You Might Also Like…

• The Best Meditation Books for Beginners According to Mindfulness Experts
• The Best Meditation Bowls According to Meditation and Yoga Teachers
• The Best Meditation Chairs and Benches, According to Meditation Teachers

Jason is a freelancer based in the United Kingdom who has written for the likes of The Inventory, TechRadar, Eurogamer, and many more. He's currently working as the editor of a Magic: The Gathering…

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7 Of The Best Meditation Cushion Sets

Can you hear that?

It’s the present moment calling you. 

Allow your mind and breathing to guide you through the immersive world of meditation.

A soothing ambiance is a key ingredient for reaching equanimity and calm .

This is why we’ve taken the time to find the best meditation cushion sets to set your mind and body at ease as you develop your meditation practice .

What is a Meditation Cushion?

The benefits of meditation cushion sets, how to choose the best meditation cushion set for your needs.

• 1. Bean Products Zafu and Zabuton Meditation Cushion Set 

2. Secret Garden Cushion Set

3. conscious life shop zafu zabuton meditation cushion set, 4. sage meditation cushion set, 5. awaken meditation cushion set, 6. leewadee meditation set, 7. leewadee meditation set: zafu cushion.

A meditation cushion, also commonly known as zafu, is a specifically designed seat stuffed with soft fibers of seed heads. 

The original zafu seats have roots in ancient China where they were stuffed with reedmace seeds.

The cushions are designed to raise the hips and elevate the pelvis, allowing for a more comfortable cross-legged position during meditation.

A zafu is mostly known for its use in zazen Zen meditation .

Meditation is a practice that requires proper posture and alignment, something that doesn’t occur naturally while sitting on the ground.

Meditation cushions help our bodies achieve the perfect shape needed for this ancient practice.

While resting comfortably on a meditation cushion, our spine maintains an upright position even during long meditation practices. 

The presence of a cushion also prevents slouching, increases comfort and improves blood flow.

There are a variety of different meditation cushions available. They can differ in overall size and shape as well as the stuffing and material they’re made of.

When choosing the best meditation cushion set for yourself, the first thing you need to consider is the cushion’s height . 

Choose a cushion that provides plenty of elevation but still allows you to sit comfortably. You’ll want to be able to rest your knees on the ground while maintaining proper posture.

There are a few different shapes of meditation cushions. The shape you will choose depends entirely on the type of meditation you intend to practice. 

The most common ones are zafu or zabuton cushions which are characterized by their elevated round appearance.

For the cushion material , make sure to choose a soft, comfortable yet durable fabric. After all, you’ll be spending a lot of time in contact with this cushion, so you’ll want to choose something that won’t irritate your skin and disturb your practice.

Stuffing is another important factor to think about. The seeds inside your cushion are meant to provide stability and comfort during your practice. 

Kapok and buckwheat are the two most popular stuffing materials used in meditation cushions.

7 of the Best Meditation Cushion Sets

1. bean products zafu and zabuton meditation cushion set  .

Bean Products is a U.S. company that’s been providing yogis and meditation aficionados high-quality, comfortable products for more than 32 years.

Their meditation cushion sets include one large oval zafu and an oversized, hand-stuffed zabuton cushion. 

The cushions are designed to accommodate people of all sizes, so they’re suitable for both children and adults.

The cushions are made using conventional cotton, organic cotton or hemp fabrics and are stuffed with organic buckwheat hulls. The zabuton cushions are filled with 100% cotton batting.

• Available in different sizes
• More than 20 colors
• Made with organic cotton, hemp, and buckwheat
• Removable zippered cover
• Some cushions could use more stuffing
• Zabuton cushion slightly thin
• Colors may be different than advertised

Sugarmat, a Montreal-based company known for its aesthetically pleasing eco-friendly products presents this Secret Garden Cushion Set adorned with delightful floral notes.

Weighing only 6 and 10 pounds, the cushions are super lightweight and soft yet incredibly sturdy, making them ideal for all your meditation purposes .

They’re filled with organic buckwheat and millet hulls touched with just a pinch of soothing lavender.

The outer covers are removable and can be machine or hand-washed.

• Lightweight and comfortable
• Beautiful floral design
• Eco-friendly
• Machine-washable
• Not available in different colors or designs
• Available in only one size

If you’re looking to build your meditation nook from scratch, this meditation cushion set by Conscious Life Shop just may be the thing to get you started.

The set includes a buckwheat-stuffed crescent cushion, one regular lift, and one cotton batting-stuffed zabuton cushion. 

To help you get the most of your practice, Conscious Life Shop also includes an incense holder and a gift bag into the package.

The cushions are available in three different colors and are made with eco-responsible materials.

• Eco-responsible materials
• Incense holder and gift bag included
• Cushions feature a built-in carry handle
• May not retain shape
• Cushions may be too soft for some
• Needs air out upon receiving

Comfortable, firm and versatile, the Sage Meditation Cushion Set provides stability and perfect alignment for those long meditative practices.

Depending on your preference, there’s an option of choosing between kapok and buckwheat-filled cushions, both of which feature a removable and washable twill cover.

The zabuton cushion is filled with cotton batting and tufted so the stuffing would stay in place even after long periods of sitting down. 

The kapok cushion also features a zippered opening  allowing you to adjust the hull levels according to your needs.

• Removable and washable twill covers
• Hull levels can be adjusted
• Extremely comfortable
• Slightly firm
• More expensive than some cushions
• Not a traditional round shape

Awaken Higher Self is not just a company — it’s a mantra that will help guide you through the peaceful world of mediation. 

To get the most of your practice, Awaken has designed this beautiful meditation cushion set made from natural cotton and filled with buckwheat hulls.

The mat and cushion combo is thick, soft and extremely comfortable, allowing you to practice perfect posture, heighten your senses and relieve the tension that’s been building up throughout the day.

They feature double-reinforced outer layers, as well as a zippered removable cover that’s machine and hand washable. 

The set is also adorned with a carrying strap if you feel like getting into that Zen mode while on the road.

• Comes with a carrying strap
• Firm and comfortable
• Double-reinforced outer layers
• Suitable for longer practices
• Available in only one color
• Single size
• Slightly sturdy

Set the mood straight with this Leewadee Meditation Set in a traditional Thai style. 

The set is available in more than ten different colors and designs ranging from sky blue and auburn to black, orange and violet.

The cushions are made from all-natural materials making them safe, comfy and breathable. 

The mat can be easily rolled up for storage or travel, and the zafu cushion has a carrying strap attached for better handling.

Double seams make the cushions extra durable, while the natural kapok fibers provide stability and support while you’re getting busy with your practice.

• More than ten colors and designs
• All-natural materials
• Extremely durable and firm
• Suitable for travel
• Covers aren’t removable
• The colors of the zabuton and zafu don’t always match
• Smaller-sized

If you love the previous Leewadee collection, then you’ll surely adore this upgrade. 

The meditation cushion set is handmade in Thailand using only the best sustainable practices that nurture the world surrounding us.

The cushion and the mat feature traditional Thai design and are made with premium double-stitched seams that add to the overall quality and stability of the set. 

Zafu is filled with untreated kapok, making the cushion extra solid, yet incredibly comfortable. 

The materials are completely natural and breathable, making them ideal for long practices even in hotter climates.

• Breathable and comfortable
• Handmade in Thailand
• Traditional Thai design
• Premium double-stitched seams

More Related Articles:

15 Can’t-Miss Mindfulness Podcasts For 2021

7 Fun Mindfulness Activities for Kids

25 Thoughtful And Unique Mindfulness Gifts

Did you find the best meditation cushion set for you?

Meditation is a purely individual practice, as it requires comfort, stability, and proper posture. 

The perfect alignment differs from one person to another, which is why finding the best meditation cushion set can be so difficult.

It may take time to find a cushion set that best resonates with your needs, and we believe that Bean Products Zafu and Zabuton Meditation Cushion Set is a good product to jumpstart your meditative journey.

Not only are the cushion sets available in different sizes and designs, but there’s also an option of choosing between hemp, conventional and organic cotton.

Aside from some possible color discrepancies, this mat and cushion set is easy to maintain and clean and allows you to adjust the height and firmness accordingly.

The versatility of this set is a great option for beginners, as well as more experienced yogis and meditation lovers.

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The 7 Best Meditation Cushions That Will Change Your Meditation Practice Forever

I’d be willing to bet that you decided to try meditation because it looks so peaceful from the outside: glossy-haired yoginis sitting in an effortless full lotus position directly on a full-grain wood floor are in all of the magazines. We all want that kind of peace — but the truth is, mediation can be much more complicated than just sitting down and focusing on your breath!

If you really tried to practice sitting meditation directly on a wood floor, you’d quickly find that your knees would seize up, your legs would have pins and needles, and the strain of trying to keep your spine straight would have you in pain, not peace!

Sitting on a zafu or cushion and supporting the spine is essential to cultivating a calm, meaningful meditation. A cushion will reduce pain, align the spine more naturally, and help you rest in mindfulness without constantly thinking about your aching back.

How to Sit Properly During Meditation (And Why You Must)

Sitting for long periods of time with your back and neck out of alignment is not only painful and distracting for you, but unhealthy! Sitting on the floor in lotus position is the quickest way to pull your back out of whack, and perhaps permanently damage your spine. You really want to make sure your spine is supported and aligned when you’re meditating.

Sitting on a cushion or prop — with the spine supported and aligned — reduces blood pressure, deepens your breathing, increases your concentration, and allows Prana to circulate freely through your body, opening the chakras and revitalizing the whole body. This is the real reason we meditate!

Try out these helpful hints for sitting with proper technique:

Sit down and cross the legs.

There are several ways to fold your legs: full lotus, half lotus, kneeling (seiza), or Suhkasana, where the legs are crossed in a relaxed way resting in front of you. If you have tight hips or difficulty with your knees or mobility, try meditating in a chair, or laying down in shavasana.

These are all great leg options, and there is no judgment about which one you pick! None of these leg positions are better or more proper than the others. It’s really about what is most supportive for your body in time and space: maybe it’s early morning and you want back support, but if you lie down you think you might go back to sleep? Chair sitting might be a good fit. Perhaps you want to meditate but your ankle has been bothering you? A meditation stool might be just the thing.

Center your sit bones.

Sit in the center of your cushion or in the middle of your chair so your pelvis is neutral, not tilted too far forward or too far back. You want your spine to stay aligned; if your pelvis is tilted, your spine will follow. You might want to rock a little here to get a better sense of where the center of your zafu is. If you’re sitting in a chair, you’ll want to make sure that you’re sitting far enough forward that your feet are firmly on the ground.

Align your spine.

Think of your vertebrae stacked neatly on top of one another, and your neck on top of that, balancing a book on your head. You really want your spine rising up and elongating toward the heavens.

Relax the shoulders.

Don’t let your shoulders crowd your ears! You can even bring them back a tiny bit, opening your fourth chakra and activating the heart. Relaxing your shoulders will relax your whole body.

Rest your hands.

With your elbows bent, bring your hands gently to your thighs, or rest them face up in your lap, touching thumbs with your right hand on top of your left. If you know mudras that you like, you can use those too, but a receptive palms-up pose is just as effective if it works for you. I also tend to meditate in prayer position with my palms together at my heart chakra, which I recommend especially if you need a little more self-love and compassion.

Relax the jaw.

Part the lips slightly, which will help relax your jaw and let it drop a little. Bringing the tongue to rest on the roof of the mouth can help you relax and calm your breathing here, as well.

Soften your gaze.

You can close your eyes if you want, or you can instead relax your eyes and eyelids and focus softly on a point on the floor about two feet in front of you. If you find that closing your eyes leads to too much “monkey mind” chatter, finding a spot to focus softly on can help calm the mind a little. Don’t stare intently! Think of the 3D posters you used to see back in the day — remember how you had to soften and look through the poster to see the figure? That’s what you’re aiming for.

Props for Proper Posture in Seated Meditation

Bodies come in all shapes and sizes, and so does every meditation prop! There are so many that it can be overwhelming to choose one, but here’s a handy guide to help you decide which is best for your sitting practice.

The right prop will help you align your spine, take pressure off your knees, thighs, and ankles, and keep you from getting that “pins and needles” feeling. It will help you relax deeply into your meditation and reduce any discomfort you might feel from sitting for long periods of time. You’re seated position can only benefit from the comfort and support of a prop.

Meditation Pillow or Cushion

Meditation pillows are also called zafus. Zafus are fat, round pillows that are low to the ground, so they’re best for those of you who have flexible knees and hips as you’ll want to sit cross-legged or in lotus on these. Zafus are often stuffed with organic buckwheat hulls, which gives them a firm texture that supports the pelvis and spine. You can alternatively get them with cotton filling, but I tend towards the buckwheat hulls as they are more resilient and won’t flatten as quickly as cotton from bearing your weight.

Zafus come in many sizes and shapes, so look for one that fits your height when you’re purchasing. If you’re taller or have less flexible hips, a larger zafu will work better because it will keep you higher off of the floor and make more room for your knees and legs. Zafus are resilient when it comes to weight, as they’re generally made tough to withstand the hours and hours of pressure of sitting. Height is the largest factor when looking for a good fit.

A zabuton is another type of meditation cushion that usually goes under the zafu — these are often sold in a cushion set with a zafu. The zabuton is larger and flatter, used under the zafu for more support and a softer leg cushion. I use a zabuton when I meditate to make the floor more welcoming to my feet and ankle bones! They’re also great for wintery days when the floor is much too cold and you need a little extra insulation.

Meditation Chair

A meditation chair can be a wonderful addition to your meditation practice . There are many different types of meditation chairs — usually, they have some sort of back support but are low to the ground so you can fold your legs, as well. Some meditation chairs are on the ground, and some off the ground depending on your preference. If you already have back problems and sitting on a zafu doesn’t work for you, a meditation chair might be just the thing.

When purchasing a meditation chair, make sure you’re checking the sizes. Some chairs are made for people 5’ 9” and under, but some are made larger, like the Friends of Meditation chair on Amazon. I especially like and recommend the classic Back Jack, which is seemingly used at every retreat I’ve ever attended!

Meditation Stool

A meditation stool is a perfect option for those of you who have little hip mobility and would like to kneel or want a higher and easier hip opening. The stool is higher off the ground but has room to tuck the legs underneath so that you can sit with spine aligned, without hurting the knees or hips. It’s especially useful for prenatal meditation .

Another great thing about meditation stools is that many are portable and easy to carry. Where a zafu and a zabuton can be weighty, a meditation stool can be packed up and carried easily. I love this one in a beautiful purple.

Some stools are made out of just wood, and some come with cushions. If you’re a beginner, the cushioned stool is a better option. Plain wood can be difficult to get used to, even for the seasoned meditator.

Best Meditation Cushions and Pillows

Cushion #1: dream meditation cushion from sittin pretty still.

I love this cushion from Sittin Pretty Still with its gorgeous five-petal design. Each petal makes the cushion supremely ergonomically supportive, and it has a zipper opening for adjusting the filling as well as easy washing. Made with organic buckwheat hulls and dried lavender, it smells as luxurious as it looks!

Cushion #2: Chattra Zafu Cushion from Yoga Outlet

Chattra zafus are perfect and classic. They come in all sizes, shapes, and colors, and they’re hand printed using ancient block techniques in ethical workshops in India. They come in absolutely gorgeous colors, so when I’m not using the zafu, I leave it on my couch because it’s so pretty.

Cushion #3: Zafu and Zabuton Meditation Cushion Set from Bean Products

These zafu and zabuton cushion sets come in multiple jewel-tone chakra colors, round or oval, and also in a large size for those of you with longer legs. Made with 100% organic buckwheat hulls, I love that they also come in Hemp fabric for even more durability.

Cushion #4: Ergonomic Meditation Seat from the Grommet

If you have pain when you’re sitting, an ergonomic chair can be a great choice to both support your back and pelvis, but also your knees and ankles. The Ergonomic Meditation Seat by the Grommet lets you sit in an easy cross-legged pose (or Sukhasana) with complete support. Though traveling with the seat may be hard, it’s beautiful enough to display in your home as an interesting piece of art.

Cushion #5: The Crystal Cove Meditation Pillow by Brentwood Home

This deliciously soft, gorgeously stitched Crystal Cove Meditation Pillow is modeled after the ocean waves in California’s Crystal Cove State Park. It’s easily cleaned, and also 100% vegan, so you can rest easy knowing that you’re meditation with props that align with your values.

Cushion #6: Crescent Meditation Pillow by Seat of Your Soul

Your lotus pose can benefit greatly from the Crescent Meditation Pillow , which bears the weight of the sit bones perfectly while creating room for the ankles and feet. Beyond the beautiful colors and durable construction of this pillow, I also appreciate that it comes with a lifetime guarantee!

Cushion #7: Zenjara Yoga Meditation Cushion

Overstuffed, textured, knit cotton, with a quilted mandala top? Okay, you had me at “hello.” The Zenjara Yoga Meditation Cushion can only be described as cozy! This cushion is made with all sustainable materials, and is, thankfully, packaged and shipped using no plastic at all.

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The 8 best neck pillows for travel.

Avoid a literal pain in the neck with these expert-approved travel pillows.

The Best Neck Pillows for Travel

Courtesy of Cabeau

The Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow is one of the best neck pillows for travel.

Just like the pillow you use at home , the best neck pillow for travel is the one that makes you feel most comfortable, allowing you to relax, rest and ultimately fall asleep on the go. The difference, however, is that a travel pillow is typically used when sitting up, which means it needs to provide enough support to keep your head from bobbing.

Based on recommendations from travel experts and advice from physicians, these are the best neck pillows for travel.

Best Overall: Cabeau Evolution S3

Best affordable: mvloc travel pillow, best for long flights: trtl travel pillow, best multipurpose: huzi infinity pillow, best inflatable: sunany inflatable travel pillow, best silk: slip jet setter travel pillow, best for backpacking: marchway ultralight inflatable camping pillow, best for kids: bcozzy double support neck pillow.

Frequent travelers praise the design of the Cabeau Evolution S3, which is made of a special dual-density memory foam. "My pillow at home is made with memory foam so it's like bringing a piece of home on my travels," says travel blogger Jasmine Cheng of The Wandering Girl . "The sides are also raised, which prevents my head from moving when I'm sleeping." Travelers also appreciate the patented seat strap system that attaches the pillow to a seat or chair headrest as well as the slim flattened back, both of which prevent the head from bobbing.

A handy storage pouch on the side of the pillow allows you to keep your earbuds or other small items close by, and the pillow comes with a clasp that attaches to carry-on luggage . The removable pillow cover, which comes in a variety of colors, is machine-washable. What's more, this travel pillow can be stored in an included carry bag that condenses it to half its size.

Price: $39.99 or less Shop now: Amazon | Cabeau

Travelers appreciate the support (and the price tag) of this memory foam travel pillow. An adjustable rope lock allows you to secure the pillow to your neck for maximum support and comfort. The breathable and machine-washable cloth exterior prevents overheating. This travel pillow also comes with earplugs and an eye mask for ultimate relaxation.

Price: $29.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Courtesy of Trtl

The patented design of the Trtl Travel Pillow – with a hidden internal neck support surrounded by soft, hypoallergenic fleece – makes it a favorite among travelers, particularly for long flights. "Something about it just hits right in a travel accessory category where nothing previously worked for me," explains Meaghan Clawsie, luxury travel advisor at Elated Escapes . "I no longer have any back or neck pain when resting on long-haul flights." Simply wrap the pillow around your neck like a scarf, secure it in place with its built-in fastener and rest your head on the support.

If you tend to overheat easily, there's also the Trtl Pillow Cool , made with Tencel fibers to keep you at a comfortable temperature; a mesh panel makes the pillow particularly breathable as well. Both pillows are machine-washable.

Price: $59.99 or less Shop now: Amazon | Trtl

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Courtesy of Huzi Design

If you're not sold on the classic U-shaped neck pillows for travel, consider this snake-like option instead. Able to be twisted into a variety of positions, the versatile Huzi Infinity Pillow provides whatever support feels best – even if that means resting your head on the tray table for a bit. You can also wear it around your neck like a scarf for neck and back comfort (even when you're not snoozing), use it as an eye mask, or drape it over your head if you get cold or want to block out noise.

Travelers love the pillow's bamboo fabric, describing it as soft, smooth and cool. Since it's filled with polyester, the whole pillow can be tossed in the washing machine , unlike its memory foam counterparts. The Infinity Pillow is available in nearly a dozen different colors, including gray, navy and pink.

Price: $45 or less Shop now: Amazon | Infinity Pillow

Read:  What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

Courtesy of Sunany

Travelers love the H-shaped design of this inflatable pillow because it allows for use in multiple directions and supports both sides of the head and neck with a flat back. A removable hood on the pillow is a bonus: It encourages a cozy feel and prevents cold drafts from too much air conditioning. For optimal comfort, it is recommended to inflate the pillow about 80% to 90%.

A pocket for your earbud case on this travel pillow provides convenient access for listening to music, and the removable velour cover is machine-washable. The lightweight inflatable pillow can be stored in the included waterproof drawstring bag, which can also be attached to luggage. This travel neck pillow is available in black, gray and blue.

Courtesy of Slip

Travel pillows don't get softer than this luxurious new option by Slip. The Jet Setter Travel Pillow is made with the highest-grade long fiber mulberry silk, which helps to prevent skin creases and bedhead. It also comes with a carrying case with handles. The Jet Setter Travel Pillow is available in three prints and a pretty solid blush color.

Price: $99 or less Shop now: Amazon | Slip

While you can often bring your pillow from home for tent camping, backpacking requires something more lightweight, such as this inflatable option by Marchway. "An inflatable pillow is a game-changer when it comes to backpacking, and an ultralight pillow can't be beat," says Leilani Osmundson , digital producer for travel at U.S. News. "The Marchway pillow fits the bill: It's comfortable, packable and extremely lightweight." This pillow is designed for both back and side sleepers, and doubles as a lumbar support for everyday travels and needs. Once it's deflated, you can machine-wash the cover before folding the pillow into an included drawstring bag.

Price: $13.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Courtesy of BCOZZY

The BCOZZY neck pillow is ideal for all travelers – including kids, with small sizes for youngsters between 3 and 7 years old, and medium options for ages 8 and 12. Travelers like the ergonomic design of the patented pillow, which supports the head and neck by propping the chin up. Overlapping pillow arms, which wrap around the neck and under the chin, can be tightened based on the level of support you need.

If you or your child is a side sleeper, fold the pillow in half, double up the sides and place it on your shoulder, leaning your head to the side. An elevated side option allows you to overlap the pillow arms on top of each other and rotate it 90 degrees to the side for double support for the neck and chin.

This travel pillow is available in a variety of colors and patterns, including light blue and pink hearts. A snap strap attaches the included travel bag to your child's luggage , and you can throw the pillow in the washing machine after your trip.

Price: $44.97 or less Shop now: Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions

Experts agree a supportive pillow is essential for travel. "The biggest issue many travelers experience when sleeping on a plane is that the seats don't recline enough," explains Dr. Alex Dimitriu, a sleep/wake and performance specialist who is dual board certified in psychiatry and sleep medicine. "This often results in the head being just on the brink of tipping forward – which is not a comfortable sleeping position. Because of this insufficient recline, it is important to keep padding behind the head and neck minimal to reduce the tendency for the head to tip forward."

Most travel pillows are designed to be worn around the neck, providing enough support to prevent the head from tipping forward.

When shopping for a neck pillow for travel, experts recommend considering the following factors:

Proper head support:  What's most important is ensuring your head is supported in the right places by your travel pillow – and, in particular, not being pushed forward by excessive padding. "A good pillow would provide support for side sleeping, rather than a lot of padding behind the head, which just pushes the head forward too much," says Dimitriu.

Material: Consider both the external and internal material of the pillow:

External: Chiropractic physician Eric Smith advises to make sure the material of your travel pillow is breathable and won't subject you to an overheated sleep, since one of the main reasons for moving around a lot as you sleep is getting too hot. "When your face gets too hot on one side, even if you're sleeping, you're going to move from it because it's too warm," Smith explains.

There's no real consensus on which material is best for a cool, comfy sleep – and different people will have different preferences – so Smith's advice is to try before you fly (and don't hesitate to request a refund if your chosen pillow isn't working out).

• Internal: Memory foam pillows tend to offer more firm support – something Smith recommends for anyone, but especially older travelers. "The majority of patients I have that get older, we actually need a more firm pillow, we need a more firm bed, we need more support," Smith says. Pillows filled with microbeads mold more to the neck and head, while inflatable pillows can be adjusted to your preferences based on how much air you use to blow them up.

A travel pillow for your neck isn't considered a carry-on or personal item (and the same generally goes for small, loose items like jackets and umbrellas). That said, it's always best to review your airline's carry-on luggage size restrictions before traveling.

A good neck pillow for travel isn't the only key to achieving a decent sleep while in transit. "From the standpoint of evolution, we're kind of hardwired to be a little bit more on high alert in those situations," explains Rebecca Robbins, an instructor in medicine at Harvard Medical School and scientist at Boston's Brigham and Women's Hospital. "We're a little bit more in fight or flight mode; our brain is subconsciously scanning the environment for threats and there are new sounds and new smells."

She recommends finding elements that are relaxing to you, which might include some of the following:

• Travel blanket: Look for something lightweight, such as the EverSnug Travel Blanket on Amazon. This blanket comes with a carrying case, which can double as a pillow when the blanket is stored inside.
• Essential or aromatherapy oils: Scents like lavender and peppermint can be especially calming.
• Earplugs: Choose headphones that block some or all external noise. The Bose QuietComfort 45 Wireless Headphones are especially well rated.
• White noise app: There are a variety of free apps, or you can try a paid option like Calm (which offers a free trial).
• Eye mask: An eye mask like this cotton option on Amazon helps to block out the bright light on planes.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Compression Socks for Travel
• The Top Walking Shoes for Travel
• The Top Carry-on Backpacks
• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seat Belt Extender?
• The Best Travel Medical Insurance Plans

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

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Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]

· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in  my post about finding cheap flights  that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

READ OUR CHEAT SHEET

Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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In Transit: Notes from the Underground

Jun 06 2018.

Spend some time in one of Moscow’s finest museums.

Subterranean commuting might not be anyone’s idea of a good time, but even in a city packing the war-games treasures and priceless bejeweled eggs of the Kremlin Armoury and the colossal Soviet pavilions of the VDNKh , the Metro holds up as one of Moscow’s finest museums. Just avoid rush hour.

The Metro is stunning and provides an unrivaled insight into the city’s psyche, past and present, but it also happens to be the best way to get around. Moscow has Uber, and the Russian version called Yandex Taxi , but also some nasty traffic. Metro trains come around every 90 seconds or so, at a more than 99 percent on-time rate. It’s also reasonably priced, with a single ride at 55 cents (and cheaper in bulk). From history to tickets to rules — official and not — here’s what you need to know to get started.

A Brief Introduction Buying Tickets Know Before You Go (Down) Rules An Easy Tour

A Brief Introduction

Moscow’s Metro was a long time coming. Plans for rapid transit to relieve the city’s beleaguered tram system date back to the Imperial era, but a couple of wars and a revolution held up its development. Stalin revived it as part of his grand plan to modernize the Soviet Union in the 1920s and 30s. The first lines and tunnels were constructed with help from engineers from the London Underground, although Stalin’s secret police decided that they had learned too much about Moscow’s layout and had them arrested on espionage charges and deported.

The beauty of its stations (if not its trains) is well-documented, and certainly no accident. In its illustrious first phases and particularly after the Second World War, the greatest architects of Soviet era were recruited to create gleaming temples celebrating the Revolution, the USSR, and the war triumph. No two stations are exactly alike, and each of the classic showpieces has a theme. There are world-famous shrines to Futurist architecture, a celebration of electricity, tributes to individuals and regions of the former Soviet Union. Each marble slab, mosaic tile, or light fixture was placed with intent, all in service to a station’s aesthetic; each element, f rom the smallest brass ear of corn to a large blood-spattered sword on a World War II mural, is an essential part of the whole.

The Metro is a monument to the Soviet propaganda project it was intended to be when it opened in 1935 with the slogan “Building a Palace for the People”. It brought the grand interiors of Imperial Russia to ordinary Muscovites, celebrated the Soviet Union’s past achievements while promising its citizens a bright Soviet future, and of course, it was a show-piece for the world to witness the might and sophistication of life in the Soviet Union.

It may be a museum, but it’s no relic. U p to nine million people use it daily, more than the London Underground and New York Subway combined. (Along with, at one time, about 20 stray dogs that learned to commute on the Metro.)

In its 80+ year history, the Metro has expanded in phases and fits and starts, in step with the fortunes of Moscow and Russia. Now, partly in preparation for the World Cup 2018, it’s also modernizing. New trains allow passengers to walk the entire length of the train without having to change carriages. The system is becoming more visitor-friendly. (There are helpful stickers on the floor marking out the best selfie spots .) But there’s a price to modernity: it’s phasing out one of its beloved institutions, the escalator attendants. Often they are middle-aged or elderly women—“ escalator grandmas ” in news accounts—who have held the post for decades, sitting in their tiny kiosks, scolding commuters for bad escalator etiquette or even bad posture, or telling jokes . They are slated to be replaced, when at all, by members of the escalator maintenance staff.

For all its achievements, the Metro lags behind Moscow’s above-ground growth, as Russia’s capital sprawls ever outwards, generating some of the world’s worst traffic jams . But since 2011, the Metro has been in the middle of an ambitious and long-overdue enlargement; 60 new stations are opening by 2020. If all goes to plan, the 2011-2020 period will have brought 125 miles of new tracks and over 100 new stations — a 40 percent increase — the fastest and largest expansion phase in any period in the Metro’s history.

Facts: 14 lines Opening hours: 5 a.m-1 a.m. Rush hour(s): 8-10 a.m, 4-8 p.m. Single ride: 55₽ (about 85 cents) Wi-Fi network-wide

Buying Tickets

• Ticket machines have a button to switch to English.
• You can buy specific numbers of rides: 1, 2, 5, 11, 20, or 60. Hold up fingers to show how many rides you want to buy.
• There is also a 90-minute ticket , which gets you 1 trip on the metro plus an unlimited number of transfers on other transport (bus, tram, etc) within 90 minutes.
• Or, you can buy day tickets with unlimited rides: one day (218₽/ US$4), three days (415₽/US$7) or seven days (830₽/US$15). Check the rates here to stay up-to-date.
• If you’re going to be using the Metro regularly over a few days, it’s worth getting a Troika card , a contactless, refillable card you can use on all public transport. Using the Metro is cheaper with one of these: a single ride is 36₽, not 55₽. Buy them and refill them in the Metro stations, and they’re valid for 5 years, so you can keep it for next time. Or, if you have a lot of cash left on it when you leave, you can get it refunded at the Metro Service Centers at Ulitsa 1905 Goda, 25 or at Staraya Basmannaya 20, Building 1.
• You can also buy silicone bracelets and keychains with built-in transport chips that you can use as a Troika card. (A Moscow Metro Fitbit!) So far, you can only get these at the Pushkinskaya metro station Live Helpdesk and souvenir shops in the Mayakovskaya and Trubnaya metro stations. The fare is the same as for the Troika card.
• You can also use Apple Pay and Samsung Pay.

Rules, spoken and unspoken

No smoking, no drinking, no filming, no littering. Photography is allowed, although it used to be banned.

Stand to the right on the escalator. Break this rule and you risk the wrath of the legendary escalator attendants. (No shenanigans on the escalators in general.)

Get out of the way. Find an empty corner to hide in when you get off a train and need to stare at your phone. Watch out getting out of the train in general; when your train doors open, people tend to appear from nowhere or from behind ornate marble columns, walking full-speed.

Always offer your seat to elderly ladies (what are you, a monster?).

An Easy Tour

This is no Metro Marathon ( 199 stations in 20 hours ). It’s an easy tour, taking in most—though not all—of the notable stations, the bulk of it going clockwise along the Circle line, with a couple of short detours. These stations are within minutes of one another, and the whole tour should take about 1-2 hours.

Start at Mayakovskaya Metro station , at the corner of Tverskaya and Garden Ring,  Triumfalnaya Square, Moskva, Russia, 125047.

1. Mayakovskaya.  Named for Russian Futurist Movement poet Vladimir Mayakovsky and an attempt to bring to life the future he imagined in his poems. (The Futurist Movement, natch, was all about a rejecting the past and celebrating all things speed, industry, modern machines, youth, modernity.) The result: an Art Deco masterpiece that won the National Grand Prix for architecture at the New York World’s Fair in 1939. It’s all smooth, rounded shine and light, and gentle arches supported by columns of dark pink marble and stainless aircraft steel. Each of its 34 ceiling niches has a mosaic. During World War II, the station was used as an air-raid shelter and, at one point, a bunker for Stalin. He gave a subdued but rousing speech here in Nov. 6, 1941 as the Nazis bombed the city above.

Take the 3/Green line one station to:

2. Belorusskaya. Opened in 1952, named after the connected Belarussky Rail Terminal, which runs trains between Moscow and Belarus. This is a light marble affair with a white, cake-like ceiling, lined with Belorussian patterns and 12 Florentine ceiling mosaics depicting life in Belarussia when it was built.

Transfer onto the 1/Brown line. Then, one stop (clockwise) t o:

3. Novoslobodskaya.  This station was designed around the stained-glass panels, which were made in Latvia, because Alexey Dushkin, the Soviet starchitect who dreamed it up (and also designed Mayakovskaya station) couldn’t find the glass and craft locally. The stained glass is the same used for Riga’s Cathedral, and the panels feature plants, flowers, members of the Soviet intelligentsia (musician, artist, architect) and geometric shapes.

Go two stops east on the 1/Circle line to:

4. Komsomolskaya. Named after the Komsomol, or the Young Communist League, this might just be peak Stalin Metro style. Underneath the hub for three regional railways, it was intended to be a grand gateway to Moscow and is today its busiest station. It has chandeliers; a yellow ceiling with Baroque embellishments; and in the main hall, a colossal red star overlaid on golden, shimmering tiles. Designer Alexey Shchusev designed it as an homage to the speech Stalin gave at Red Square on Nov. 7, 1941, in which he invoked Russia’s illustrious military leaders as a pep talk to Soviet soldiers through the first catastrophic year of the war.   The station’s eight large mosaics are of the leaders referenced in the speech, such as Alexander Nevsky, a 13th-century prince and military commander who bested German and Swedish invading armies.

One more stop clockwise to Kurskaya station,  and change onto the 3/Blue  line, and go one stop to:

5. Baumanskaya.   Opened in 1944. Named for the Bolshevik Revolutionary Nikolai Bauman , whose monument and namesake district are aboveground here. Though he seemed like a nasty piece of work (he apparently once publicly mocked a woman he had impregnated, who later hung herself), he became a Revolutionary martyr when he was killed in 1905 in a skirmish with a monarchist, who hit him on the head with part of a steel pipe. The station is in Art Deco style with atmospherically dim lighting, and a series of bronze sculptures of soldiers and homefront heroes during the War. At one end, there is a large mosaic portrait of Lenin.

Stay on that train direction one more east to:

6. Elektrozavodskaya. As you may have guessed from the name, this station is the Metro’s tribute to all thing electrical, built in 1944 and named after a nearby lightbulb factory. It has marble bas-relief sculptures of important figures in electrical engineering, and others illustrating the Soviet Union’s war-time struggles at home. The ceiling’s recurring rows of circular lamps give the station’s main tunnel a comforting glow, and a pleasing visual effect.

Double back two stops to Kurskaya station , and change back to the 1/Circle line. Sit tight for six stations to:

7. Kiyevskaya. This was the last station on the Circle line to be built, in 1954, completed under Nikita Khrushchev’ s guidance, as a tribute to his homeland, Ukraine. Its three large station halls feature images celebrating Ukraine’s contributions to the Soviet Union and Russo-Ukrainian unity, depicting musicians, textile-working, soldiers, farmers. (One hall has frescoes, one mosaics, and the third murals.) Shortly after it was completed, Khrushchev condemned the architectural excesses and unnecessary luxury of the Stalin era, which ushered in an epoch of more austere Metro stations. According to the legend at least, he timed the policy in part to ensure no Metro station built after could outshine Kiyevskaya.

Change to the 3/Blue line and go one stop west.

8. Park Pobedy. This is the deepest station on the Metro, with one of the world’s longest escalators, at 413 feet. If you stand still, the escalator ride to the surface takes about three minutes .) Opened in 2003 at Victory Park, the station celebrates two of Russia’s great military victories. Each end has a mural by Georgian artist Zurab Tsereteli, who also designed the “ Good Defeats Evil ” statue at the UN headquarters in New York. One mural depicts the Russian generals’ victory over the French in 1812 and the other, the German surrender of 1945. The latter is particularly striking; equal parts dramatic, triumphant, and gruesome. To the side, Red Army soldiers trample Nazi flags, and if you look closely there’s some blood spatter among the detail. Still, the biggest impressions here are the marble shine of the chessboard floor pattern and the pleasingly geometric effect if you view from one end to the other.

Keep going one more stop west to:

9. Slavyansky Bulvar.  One of the Metro’s youngest stations, it opened in 2008. With far higher ceilings than many other stations—which tend to have covered central tunnels on the platforms—it has an “open-air” feel (or as close to it as you can get, one hundred feet under). It’s an homage to French architect Hector Guimard, he of the Art Nouveau entrances for the Paris M é tro, and that’s precisely what this looks like: A Moscow homage to the Paris M é tro, with an additional forest theme. A Cyrillic twist on Guimard’s Metro-style lettering over the benches, furnished with t rees and branch motifs, including creeping vines as towering lamp-posts.

Stay on the 3/Blue line and double back four stations to:

10. Arbatskaya. Its first iteration, Arbatskaya-Smolenskaya station, was damaged by German bombs in 1941. It was rebuilt in 1953, and designed to double as a bomb shelter in the event of nuclear war, although unusually for stations built in the post-war phase, this one doesn’t have a war theme. It may also be one of the system’s most elegant: Baroque, but toned down a little, with red marble floors and white ceilings with gilded bronze c handeliers.

Jump back on the 3/Blue line  in the same direction and take it one more stop:

11. Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Revolution Square). Opened in 1938, and serving Red Square and the Kremlin . Its renowned central hall has marble columns flanked by 76 bronze statues of Soviet heroes: soldiers, students, farmers, athletes, writers, parents. Some of these statues’ appendages have a yellow sheen from decades of Moscow’s commuters rubbing them for good luck. Among the most popular for a superstitious walk-by rub: the snout of a frontier guard’s dog, a soldier’s gun (where the touch of millions of human hands have tapered the gun barrel into a fine, pointy blade), a baby’s foot, and a woman’s knee. (A brass rooster also sports the telltale gold sheen, though I am told that rubbing the rooster is thought to bring bad luck. )

Now take the escalator up, and get some fresh air.

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21 Things to Know Before You Go to Moscow

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TravelAwaits

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19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

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Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.