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Why yoga cushions are so important

by Stefan on Sep 04 2021
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    For a relaxed meditation, a comfortable seat that supports your body, especially your back and spine, is particularly important. The right meditation cushion allows you to sit comfortably even during longer yoga exercises, while protecting your joints and back. Another benefit of using a suitable cushion is that it allows for deeper breathing. By elevating the hips, the pelvis can tilt forward during meditation, giving the abdominal area more room to breathe.

    In addition to the shape of the cushion, you can also choose the color, filling, and cover. The extensive selection means there's a suitable yoga cushion for every yogi. Choose between moon cushions , yoga bolsters , and zafus to take your yoga practice to the next level.

    The different shapes of meditation cushions

    Your yoga cushion should be a perfect fit for you. In our shop, you'll find not only a huge selection of different colors and covers, but also many different cushion shapes that can be used for various exercises. The shape of the cushion is crucial for making your yoga practice as relaxing and comfortable as possible, strengthening your back, and supporting your posture. The different shapes cater to individual preferences, offer specific benefits, and are suitable for different yoga exercises.

    Crescent-shaped meditation cushions:

    Especially when meditating in the lotus position or cross-legged, half-moon-shaped cushions offer plenty of legroom. While they enclose your pelvis and hips, they also support your spine and thighs. This ensures a stable posture at all times. Half-moon-shaped cushions are ideal for cross-legged exercises. This cushion shape is also the right choice for fans of long meditation sessions.

    It's also worth noting that meditating in the lotus position is particularly challenging with crescent-shaped yoga cushions. Due to the shape of this cushion variation, the cutout leaves more room for the feet, which can make the position quite strenuous. Incidentally, if necessary, the curved cushion can also be converted into a neck pillow thanks to its shape.

    Moon pillow XL with organic spelt husk filling

    https://www.yogabox.de/mondkissen-yogakissen-d-regional-hergestellt/

    Round yoga cushions:

    This popular classic is frequently used in meditation rooms, yoga studios, and therapy centers. Round yoga cushions are also used in schools and kindergartens. The circular seat provides optimal support for your posture and joints during meditation, allowing you to comfortably adopt numerous sitting positions. Compared to other cushion shapes, you can't go wrong with round models. Whether cross-legged or lotus pose, these cushions make every exercise particularly comfortable and enjoyable.

    Tip: Make sure that round yoga cushions for meditation are rather flat so that you can sit comfortably.

    Round meditation cushion Rondo with Om stick

    https://www.yogabox.de/Meditationskissen/Basic/Yogakissen-Glueckssitz-Basic-Medium.html

    Zafu (oval) cushions:

    The zafu has been used for centuries as a traditional meditation cushion in classic Japanese Zen meditation. The subtle expansion folds are particularly distinctive and give this cushion its unique shape. Zafu cushions offer a large seating area and are ideal for meditating in the lotus position. This cushion's shape keeps the knees relatively close to the floor. Thanks to its kapok filling, the zafu meditation cushion retains its shape over time.

    Meditation cushion Zafu with ZIP GOTS seal

    https://www.yogabox.de/meditationskissen-zafu/

    Rectangular meditation cushions:

    This style is suitable not only as a meditation cushion, but also for practicing Hatha Yoga and other forms of yoga. While this cushion shape isn't ideal for longer meditations, it is very versatile for opening exercises. You may be familiar with rectangular yoga cushions as bolsters.

    TriYoga Bolster BASIC made of 100% cotton

    https://www.yogabox.de/meditationskissen-rechteckbolster/

    What size should your yoga cushion be?

    When choosing your meditation cushion, pay attention to its size. This depends on your height and meditation posture. The right yoga cushion should protect sensitive areas, such as your hips and knees, during exercises. A properly sized cushion stabilizes your posture and allows you to meditate in a relaxed manner. When purchasing a cushion, make sure the seat meets these requirements.

    What height is suitable for your yoga practice?

    You can choose between three different heights. Depending on your height, flexibility, and intended use, you can choose between small (10 cm), medium (15 cm), and high (20 cm) versions. When choosing the height of your cushion, it's important to ensure that your knees are always below your hips so your pelvis can be aligned. If you're just beginning your yoga career, it's best to choose a taller cushion. Otherwise, you could quickly develop painful tension after the exercises.

    With many yoga cushions, you can even adjust the seat height yourself by adding or removing filling material .

    Yoga cushions: your basic equipment

    A comfortable cushion is the most important foundation for relaxed meditation. Therefore, treat yourself to a high-quality cushion that meets all your needs and, of course, also appeals to your aesthetic. Choose a cushion based on your personal preferences that optimally supports your relaxation exercises.

    Do you enjoy practicing yoga outdoors? A practical cushion with carrying handles is the right choice for you. If you've already created a cozy oasis for your meditation sessions at home, you can also opt for a larger model.

    Take a look at the yoga cushion category in our online shop and invest in a high-quality cushion for your training. You can read detailed information about basic yoga cushion equipment in our blog article.

    Exercises with yoga cushions

    Especially for yoga beginners, practical meditation cushions are a great aid for correct posture and a comfortable sitting experience. Here, we explain which asanas can be performed with round yoga cushions, moon cushions, and bolsters.

    A round yoga bolster, in particular, is the perfect companion for numerous yoga exercises. Whether for relaxed meditation or challenging postures, a round bolster is truly multi-talented. Use the bolster, for example, to mobilize your spine and stretch your shoulder girdle. Relieve pressure on sensitive areas of your spine and stretch your lower back in Shavasana by placing the yoga bolster under the backs of your knees. A yoga bolster can also be used as an aid for the cane pose or full shoulder stand.

    Deep relaxation with Yin Yoga

    Yin Yoga is a particularly tranquil form of yoga in which poses must be held for a relatively long time. Along with traditional meditation, Yin Yoga is the ideal way to relax and let go. Props such as yoga bolsters, bolsters, and other cushions can be used effectively within this practice.

    Exercises during pregnancy

    Use yoga bolsters as a relaxing and supportive aid during pregnancy. Bolsters can provide wonderful relief for your pelvis during certain poses and improve posture. Yoga rolls, pillows, and yoga bolsters are absolute musts for pregnant yoga practitioners.

    Our conclusion:

    High-quality yoga cushions should be a staple in every yogi's home. These practical aids perfectly complement our training and allow our yoga practice to take on a whole new dimension.