Yoga BLOG

Which yoga cushion is right for you and what types are there?
by Joe
on Aug 25 2025
Yogis know the importance of the right yoga cushion. Whether before, during, or after a yoga session, resting certain body parts on a cushion is beneficial, meditation is much more comfortable when sitting elevated, and for Shavasana, it's helpful to gently rest your head or legs. If you're looking for the perfect option for you and your practice, this article will help you with its diverse information on the various cushions and their benefits.
Why is the right pillow so important?
Every yogi who meditates or practices yoga regularly should get a high-quality cushion. Elevated seating prevents your legs from falling asleep (even during longer meditations), and it also protects your back and prevents poor posture. Pressure can be taken off the intervertebral discs, allowing for truly deep breathing. This is an important prerequisite for a pleasant meditation practice.
The cushions are also used for various yoga exercises. Not only the regular models are used here, but also the so-called bolsters . For example, there is the elongated bolster , which is especially used for heart-opening poses (such as backbends or forward bends). If, on the other hand, you meditate lying down, you can use the elongated cushion for lower back support.
What is important when buying?
To ensure that you enjoy your yoga cushion for a long time, it is worth considering a few things before purchasing it.
The following factors in particular play an important role:
1) Filling
Many versions consist of an inner cushion (with filling) and a cover, usually washable, that can be detached from the inner cushion. This is an advantage when the inner cushion gets dirty and needs to be washed. The filling is crucial for comfortable seating.
Different manufacturers use a variety of materials for this purpose. Spelt, millet, and buckwheat hulls are among the most commonly used. Kapok, which is similar to cotton, is also used.
The different fillings differ as follows:
a) Spelt grain shell : not so flexible, robust and firm
b) Buckwheat hull : can store heat well, is pleasant for the body as it adapts, breathable, is not noisy when moving
c) Kapok : elastic, soft, the hold is not so strong
d) Millet husk : adapts well to the body, is a little firmer and more stable than buckwheat
Using this information, you can find out which one is suitable for you (whether you are an advanced or a beginner) and choose the right variation for your yoga practice.
2) Shape
If you want to buy a lightweight cushion that adapts perfectly to your sitting posture, it is best to try out different shapes.
a) Half-moon pillow
Experienced yogis report great experiences with the half-moon bolster . This is because it provides more space for your legs and feet. This provides comfortable support. Your spine is supported, thus preventing certain back problems.
If you enjoy long meditations, then the half-moon-shaped ones are perfect for you. You can also use them for your neck, giving you two in one.
b) Round meditation cushion
Here, you sit about 15 cm above the floor, which makes meditation significantly more comfortable. The large seat allows you to relax and sink into yourself. This position is ideal for the tailor's pose and the lotus position.
c) Zafu meditation cushion
This version originates from Japan and differs from the other models due to its height. Thanks to its vertical folds, it is particularly beautifully decorated and a real eye-catcher. The folds ensure that the cushion adapts to your sitting position. It can be used not only for traditional meditation in a yoga room, but also for sitting in the living room.
There are also other shapes that you can find in the online shop.
3) Height
In addition to the first two factors, height also plays a role. If you plan to use the cushion exclusively for meditation, it can be 15 cm high. However, if you also use it to rest various body parts during various yoga exercises, it might be practical to have a slightly flatter one.
Flexibility and height also play a role in the height factor. If you're very tall and not yet very flexible, the pillow can be higher, while shorter yogis can opt for flatter ones.
If circulatory problems occur, higher versions are advisable – the height should be at least 15 centimeters. This ensures that you can perform certain exercises on the mat that require supporting your body.
What other distinguishing features play a role?
In addition to the three points mentioned above, there are other factors that speak for or against a pillow.
The material of the pillowcase plays a role, among other things. Ideally, it should be made of organic cotton and sustainably produced. Keep in mind that the harmful substances trapped in these materials can enter your bloodstream through your skin. Therefore, production with organic materials is important.
Of course, the color is also a crucial factor in whether you like the pillow or not. The color or pattern printed on the pillow should appeal to you and put you in a positive mood—especially if you often struggle to motivate yourself to meditate for long periods.
Have you already found your favorite pillow? If so, which one do you particularly enjoy using? Feel free to share your favorites.

Why yoga cushions are so important
by Stefan
on Sep 04 2021
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.