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It is important to distinguish the differences between a meditation cushion and the traditional cushion that would adorn your couch. Traditional cushions are soft and are designed either for decoration, or as a gentle and broad support.
On the other hand, meditation cushions are designed for the specific purpose of assisting your meditation practice. They are much firmer and give solid and specific support.
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Ergonomically, they lift your sitting bones off the floor, which allows your pelvis to tilt forward.
This takes the pressure off your lower back as the spine can better rest in its natural position. |
Without this natural lordodic curve through your lumber vertebrae you will tend to slouch. Not only does this create tension in your neck and shoulders, it affects the energy flow along the spinal meridian, which works best when the 7 chakras are vertically aligned.
Using the meditation cushion allows you to naturally and comfortably sit tall, which opens your chest and allows for a more relaxed breath.
It is most common for meditation cushions to be made from all natural materials. Those on a spiritual path are usually more eco aware - and quite simply, the materials feel better to the touch. They should be generously filled with cotton, to provide adequate support, or my preference is the cushions filled with buckwheat husks. They better contour to your shape and provide even and sustained support. Expect to pay ten dollars or so more for the buckwheat filling.
The most practical meditation cushions have a removable outer cover to allow for easy washing. Not that they need cleaning often, but I have used mine on the floor of a friends garage, in a park, on carpet that gets a lot of traffic and in very hot weather (perspiration). Being able to wash the cover with ease should be a consideration when you purchase your cushion.
The color of your meditation cushion is also an important decision. Some of us simply have favorite colors. Others use specific colors for a specific purpose - such as using a deep and rich red for connection to mother earth via the base chakra, or a vibrant green for inner healing. With choices such as Dark Purple, Lavender, Emerald Green, Dark Blue, Moss Green, Saffron Orange, Olive Green, Maroon, Corn flour Blue, Lime Sorbet Green, Purple, Red and Brown, one will usually jump out at you to signify an affinity.
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In the same way as having a dedicated alter which serves to enhance the energy and spiritual connection when sitting before it, I have found that the more I sit on my meditation cushion the faster and deeper I go into meditation. |
Not only did I scent the buckwheat husks with Frankincense (which is an ancient essential oil used to aid spiritual practice) I can 'feel' the energy associated with the cushion. It is as though my cushion is the base of an energetic egg in which I sit. This energy is a protective divine force allowing only the highest and finest energy to pass. Not only is my cushion comfortable - it is a comfort. I am at ease when sitting on my cushion, and my body memory is programmed for what is to come.
The most common style of meditation cushion is round. They usually have pleated seems to allow for expansion when sat upon. Round cushions are good as the corners of square cushions can inhibit the placement of your feet. The crescent shape pillow suits some people better - as does a simple bolster or meditation stool.
There are several places to buy products online, but if you wish to try before you buy, I suggest finding a local yoga supply store - or drop into a meditation center, as they usually have a good selection of different tools to assist the comfort of those who attend classes.
You can see how well each product wears the effects of use and time, and talk to other meditators who can suggest products or places to purchase your meditation cushion.
Although some forms of meditation have strict postural requirements, most encourage your physical comfort, especially when just beginning. If you sit on the floor, on a chair, couch, or lie flat on the ground or in bed, try meditating with a specifically designed meditation cushion to see how it affects your practice.
Aligning the energy centers of your body, taking tension out of your muscles and joints, and allowing for easy breathing may just take you to the next level. At the very least - your meditation practice will be more enjoyable.
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