Created in Japan and made popular in China, for thousands of years a Zafu cushion has been used for seated meditation. Often mistakenly translated for "sewn seat" Zafu actually means "seat made of cattails" which for a very long time is what the Zafu cushion was truly made of.

During the practice of mental discipline known as meditation, a Zafu cushion was made to create a comfortable, stable place to sit that created stable body alignment to help promote a deep meditative state of awareness.The thought being in many cultures that a when the spine is straight it encourages the circulation in the body of spiritual energy or the persons life force.

Although in the past the Zafu cushion was made of cattails. Today stuffing materials used vary but are generally buckwheat hulls or natural kapok fiber to 100% cotton and covered with a natural cotton or silk canvas. What you will find is that although the meditation cushion looks somewhat awkward, that it is actually quite comfortable and really does promote a posture that is prime for relaxation.

Obviously, no, you do not need a Zafu cushion to practice the relaxing art of meditation. However, many people find that setting up a special serene place with meditation cushions, candles, music and other relaxing, calming mood setting objects helps them to separate from the day to day stress of work, family, and bills and let go into a more peaceful mood wherever that may be. Creating an environment that is meant to soley promote the user into going within themselves and letting go of what surrounds them can be quite helpful.

Having a Zafu cushion helps some individuals who are not able easily detach from what they are doing throughout the day and let go into a deep meditative state.

A Japanese traditional Zafu cushion is a round, plump, pleated pillow. When sat upon the cushion promotes sitting in an upright position by supporting the spine. The meditation pillow is generally about 5 to 8 inches high to help you sit in a full or half lotus position with your knees resting on the floor. A slight tilt of your body is created.

In this position your spine in corrected in a erect position that makes it easier for long meditative sessions that are easy on your body. If those are difficult, having your legs crossed will work just as well until you are able to work in to the lotus position if you so desire.

For those that are concerned with sore knees and ankles when sitting in that position, many people who enjoy the use of special meditation pillows such as the Zafu also use a Zabuton The Zabuton is a larger, square flatter cushion usually about 2 to 4 inches thick that is placed under the Zafu to make it easier on knees and ankles. Zafu and Zabutons are often found as sets.

Your Zafu cushion and Zabuton cushion if you choose to own one should ONLY be used during meditation.These are not couch pillows, or meant to lay on the ground and watch movies.

Your Zafu and Zabuton cushion should only be used during your zen meditation practice. Using them for other reasons will take away the special aspect of it. The same goes for any other objects or music you use for meditation. The items you use for this purpose should be put away, or remain in an area that is only to be used for your meditative practices.

When your mind associates certiain objects with relaxation, it will help you to ease into a more aware and relaxed state of mind.