The Zafu in Meditation

By Mark Hoerrner

It’s all about posture.

When you’re in for a long session of meditation, comfort is going to be important. Back strain, leg strain and other physical injuries can result from long periods of even moderate strain on joints, ligaments and muscles. Circulation is important, especially in more mature individuals, to avoid the possibility of a stroke or blood clot. Thus, many people utilize the zafu, or sewn seat, as a way to maintain comfort and posture while meditating.

The zafu itself, like much in Buddhist philosophy, is minimal. It’s usually a round pillow about 16 inches in diameter and about 8 inches high, though designs differ widely.

"The outer 'skins' comprise a circular top and bottom which are connected by a pleated sid," says Anthony Flanagan, a writer and practitioner who provides guides for people on Zen philosophy for About.com. "This material is usually made from cotton drill or cotton twill and can come in all sorts of colors depending on the supplier. The filling can vary too but the most common is kapok, a natural fiber taken from the Ceiba tree which is grown in the far east, or buckwheat hulls. This material is used because they enable the zafu to keep its shape despite frequent sittings. Most zafus come with a concealed opening (so that the filling can be taken out while the outer skin is washed) and a carrying handle."

The cushion is placed under the buttocks while the user is sitting cross-legged. This allows for a physics dynamic that pushes the knees toward the floor while keeping circulation going in the legs. It also cushions the body’s weight on the legs. Zafus are often used in conjunctions with zabutons, a long cushion that is used to further comfort the legs.

Though the fundamentals of meditation do not often include some degree of physical comfort as people can sit on beds, couches, and other modern conveniences, the zafu can be a useful tool.

"Zafus and zabutons are found more usually in the Zen tradition but they have gained wider currency not just in Buddhist meditation but with health clubs and fitness centers where meditation and yoga," Flanagan says. "It is important to note that zafus and zabutons are not essential to good meditation. However, they can contribute to its efficacy."

Commercial enterprises offering zafus for sale are on the rise. For those seeking a zafu or zafu-zabuton combination, there are a host of manufacturers offering different color combinations and styles. Samadhi Cushions offers individual zafus from about $40 to $90, though they do also offer some kits that include zafu-zabuton pairings for about $108. Sage Meditation has similar offerings available, though their prices are slightly higher.