Meditation cushions can be expensive, so it's important to choose one that will last a long time. The type of filling used is an important consideration, as this will determine the cushion's durability, comfort, and ease of maintenance. The most popular filling options are buckwheat hulls, kapok, cotton, and man-made synthetics.
Buckwheat hulls are the outer shells of buckwheat grains and are a popular choice for meditation cushions due to their durability, stability, and ability to conform to the body's shape. They can be adjusted by adding or removing hulls through a zippered opening, and they maintain their shape without flattening out. However, some may find buckwheat hulls too hard, and they can make a scrunching sound when moved on.
Kapok, a traditional filling, is a fluffy, cotton-like material derived from Kapok trees. It is softer than buckwheat but can flatten with use, requiring revival by squeezing and fluffing. Adjusting the level of kapok is difficult, and manually adding more can result in a lumpy cushion.
Cotton filling is less popular as it loses its fluffiness quickly, is prone to mould and mildew, and is not very soft. However, it is a good choice for those with sensitivities to other fillers.
Synthetic fillings are the least popular due to potential allergies, but they are recommended for those with sensitivities. Softer synthetics like polyester or foam can be very comfortable but tend to lose their buoyancy over time.
When refilling a meditation cushion, it is important to choose the appropriate filling type and ensure that the cushion has a zippered opening for easy adjustment.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Materials | Buckwheat hulls, Kapok, Cotton, Man-made synthetic, Foam, Polyester |
Pros | Longevity, Comfort, Support, Adjustable, Stable, Eco-friendly |
Cons | Hardness, Weight, Noise, Lumps, Allergies, Cost |
What You'll Learn
- Buckwheat Hulls: a traditional Japanese filling, eco-friendly, and comfortable
- Kapok: a traditional filler, fluffy, cotton-like, lightweight, and hypoallergenic
- Cotton: a familiar, lightweight, and affordable option
- Man-made Synthetic: ideal for those with allergies, soft, but loses buoyancy over time
- Foam: soft and comfortable, but will need replacing
Buckwheat Hulls: a traditional Japanese filling, eco-friendly, and comfortable
Buckwheat hulls are the outer shells of the buckwheat grain and have been used as a traditional filling for meditation cushions in Japan for thousands of years. They are a popular filling choice due to their eco-friendly and comfortable properties.
Buckwheat hulls are organic, requiring no chemical treatment, and are naturally resistant to insects and mould. They are also very durable and can last for many years. The hulls are firm but springy and will conform to the shape of your body, providing a comfortable and stable platform for meditation.
Most buckwheat-filled cushions have a zipper or drawstring, allowing you to adjust the amount of filling to your preference. This is particularly useful if you find the hulls a little hard, as you can simply remove some to make the cushion softer. The zipper also means you can replace the hulls if they get old or thin over time.
Buckwheat hulls are heavier than some other filling types, and they can make a scrunching noise when you move around on the cushion. However, they maintain their shape and don't flatten out over time, making them a good investment.
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Kapok: a traditional filler, fluffy, cotton-like, lightweight, and hypoallergenic
Kapok is a traditional filler for meditation cushions. It is a natural fibre that is soft, silky, and resilient. Kapok is grown in the South Pacific from the seed pods of kapok trees, which are found in Thailand and Indonesia. It is fluffy and cotton-like, and its round, hard cushions are heavier than those filled with buckwheat. Kapok is hypoallergenic and mould-resistant, and it floats.
Kapok cushions are not easy to refill, and refilling can result in a cottage cheese-like texture. They are also less stable than buckwheat cushions and will eventually flatten with use. However, they are a good choice for those who prefer a softer cushion or dislike the feel of buckwheat.
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Cotton: a familiar, lightweight, and affordable option
Cotton is a familiar, lightweight, and affordable option for refilling your meditation cushion. It is also a natural alternative to foam fillings, which can contain dangerous VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Cotton is also breathable and durable, and you can find it in organic, GOTS-certified varieties.
However, cotton is not the most popular choice for meditation cushions. This is because it loses its fluffiness quickly, and is prone to mould and mildew. It is also not very soft, so it may not be comfortable for some users.
Despite these drawbacks, cotton can be a good choice for people with sensitivities or allergies to other types of fillings. Cotton-filled meditation cushions are also lightweight and easy to travel with.
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Man-made Synthetic: ideal for those with allergies, soft, but loses buoyancy over time
Man-made synthetic filling is the least popular type of stuffing for meditation cushions. However, it is a good option for those with allergies. The soft stuffing, usually foam or polyester, can provide comfort for those with sensitive hips or bottoms. However, it is important to note that over time, these fillings will lose their buoyancy and will need to be replaced.
When choosing a meditation cushion, it is important to consider the height, comfort, flexibility, reliability, and price. The height of the cushion is particularly important for taller individuals who require more lift from their meditation cushion. The comfort of the cushion will depend on the stuffing, with man-made synthetic fillings being the softest option. If you are not very flexible, you may require an elevated cushion to help relieve pressure from your knees and ankles. The reliability of the cushion depends on the quality of the materials used, and the price does not always reflect the quality.
Meditation cushions can be quite expensive, so it is important to choose one that is durable and will last a long time. It is recommended to spend a little extra to get a cushion with additional features such as a removable cover for easy cleaning and the ability to adjust the amount of stuffing.
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Foam: soft and comfortable, but will need replacing
Foam is a good choice for a meditation cushion filling if you're looking for something soft and comfortable. This is particularly beneficial if you have sensitive hips or a sensitive bottom. However, foam will eventually lose its buoyancy and will need to be replaced.
If you're set on foam, you'll want to look for a meditation cushion with an inner liner bag to contain the filling. Without it, laundering the pillow is difficult. After washing, good pillows should retain their shape and colour.
If you're looking for a filling that doesn't need to be replaced, you might want to consider buckwheat hulls. They're the most popular type of filling for meditation cushions because of their durability and stability. They also shift and follow the movement you're making, allowing for a custom fit for each meditator.
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Frequently asked questions
To refill a meditation cushion, you will need to open it via a zipper or drawstring. Most expensive meditation cushions have this feature to allow for adjustments to the amount of filling. Once open, you can add or remove filling to reach your desired level of firmness.
The most popular materials for refilling meditation cushions are buckwheat hulls and kapok. Cotton is another option, but it is less popular as it loses its fluffiness quickly and is prone to mould and mildew.
The amount of filling you add to your meditation cushion depends on your personal preference for firmness. A good way to test this is to sit on the cushion and adjust the filling until you are happy with the level of comfort and support.