Meditation Cushion (Plum) Crescent, Buckwheat Husk Filled, Floor Pillow or Cushions, Yoga Seat, Zafu, Made in The USA

- On meditation cushions in general -I had trouble maintaining a normal meditation practice. I think it was related to not making the appropriate time for myself, or thinking I would benefit more from doing other things. Once I got this cushion, it acted as a tangible object that I could associate with meditating. It became a different "place" for me to be, which was a more peaceful and still place. I look forward to using the cushion, which I reserve for meditation use only. It has helped me to maintain a simple meditation schedule, which in turn has helped me to see real benefits in my capacity to focus and deal with stress.- On crescent shaped meditation cushions -I thought I would need the more sharply angled cosmic cushion style for my meditation practice, as I have poor hip flexibility for my age (32), bordering arthritis. However, since those cushions are about twice the price of this one, and this was my first meditation cushion, I decided to try the crescent style. I very much like my decision. I was told in a meditation class that the purpose of your cushion is to elevate your hips so that they are slightly above your knees when you sit to meditate. This helps your legs/feet to not fall asleep and is generally more comfortable. I found that this shape of cushion does a great job serving both purposes for me. Round cushions are a bit more awkward for me, as you're supposed to sit closer to the edge of them, whereas you sit directly on the crescent cushions.- On this particular cushion -The material is strong. The buckwheat fill gives you a grounded, supported seat without being so hard that your butt falls asleep. I have seen other zafus that have a liner to contain the buckwheat fill to make it easier to wash the exterior fabric, which would be nice. This one simply has a zipper (located behind the strap handle, which is hidden in the middle of the outer curve of the zafu) so you can remove loose buckwheat if you choose to do so. I don't mind this, though some others may find it a bit annoying.

This is the second of these that I've bought -- a little indulgent, but I have one upstairs and one downstairs. And they are reasonably priced. I had read reviews about the possibility of seams coming apart. That was not my experience, but I recommend removing some of the filler until you can sit without the cushion feeling like it will pop. It's more comfortable to use with a little less filling and will mold better to your sitting position. I've seen other zafu crescent cushions are lopsided or the pleating is off; that is not the case with both cushions that I have. In addition, the fabric is a good quality, with a good, thick cotton twill. I've had no problem with the seams. The handle is securely stitched and easy to use. My experience is that the color was true to what I saw on the screen. There is a zipper under the handle on the side. If I had one criticism, and it's a small one, it's a little difficult to unzip when the cushion is full. On the other hand, it's kind of nice that the zipper doesn't show. I can highly recommend the product: it's attractive, well constructed, securely stitched, and holds up to daily use.

This is firm but not uncomfortable. Great for meditation!

Very satisfied with the quality and the price. I'm a medium sized guy, size 33 waist, but I like to have a cushion that is large enough for my entire bum to sit. It sits higher than a lot of other cushions also, so it's easier to open my hips more, and put my knees on the floor without having them fall asleep. The crescent is good to tuck my foot in closer and not have my legs press together. Comfortable enough to sit lotus or cross-legged for long sits.Out of the box, it's a bit firm, so I took out some buckwheat hulls to conform a bit better to my body. The removal of the hulls is easy to do, just unzip a hidden zipper behind the handle to access them.This version doesn't have an inner bag for the hulls, so when I wash the cover I have to remove all the hulls before I wash it. The zipper to access the holes isn't that large, so it's a little more difficult to get all the hulls out. Cleaning it isn't usually done often (at least not for me), so I'm not concerned about it, especially for the price.If you're new or an experienced meditator, I highly suggest this!

Really well made yoga cushion. Just wish the company made a longer knee bolster for yoga.

This cushion is more of a support, which is what I wanted. My lowerback and hips get tight and it's nice to relieve some of that pressure while sitting. Also doubles as a fairly comfortable pillow in a pinch.

Very Nice bolster. Good quality and is as described. I have had two knee replacements and it works perfectly in my yoga practice to ease into specific poses.

I don't do yoga. I do sit and do mantras daily. Getting older now, sitting on the floor can be extremely painfulfor me at times (or cause pain later.) I've tried regular pillows, and rolled up blankets (random hit or miss on efficacy.)HOWEVER, this pillow here, filled with buckwheat, is a miraculous thing. The moment I sat down my body was in a more perfect position to say mantra with my full chest, and breathe properly. I'd nearly forgotten what that was like. So, I'm very pleased to be able to sit very much comfortable, doing my mantras and mudras pain free. My goodness.