How to use Zafu and Zabuton Set? Proper guide in 2022

A Zafu and Zabuton Set is a must-have item for anyone who wants to meditate.

If you’re new to meditation, it’s best to start with a zafu and zabuton set. Here are some things that you should know about them.

Zafu and Zabuton are both cushions that you can use to sit on or lay on in order to improve your posture.

The difference between the two is the shape and the size of each cushion.

Here we have mentioned some key points about how to use a Zafu and Zabuton set.

  1. What is a Zafu and Zabuton set?
  2. Materials used for Zafu and Zabuton set
  3. How do I take care of my zabuton?
  4. Why use a Zafu and Zabuton set?
  5. Tips for using a Zafu and Zabuton Set
  6. What is the proper posture while using the Zafu and Zabuton set?

 

What is a Zafu and Zabuton set?

A zafu is a folded rectangular pillows made of buckwheat hulls with synthetic filling. The zafu is the base of the practice mat. It is flat, and at least 3 feet long.

A Zabuton sitting mat is a cushion that looks like an ottoman with extra width and high sides.

The zabuton should be about the size of your body.  They are used as a flat support during sitting or kneeling meditation and relaxation, laying down, sleeping on, etc.

If you are smaller than average, then it should be about half the size of your body. This allows for more cushioning between you and the ground.

If you are larger than average, then make the zabuton a little larger than your body. The zafu and zabuton must be firm, but not too hard.

You need something that will cushion your body, but not so much that it stops you from getting a good workout. You can use any kind of mat you want for your practice area.

It adds comfort in any kind of sitting position and also acts as partial heat therapy for colder ones.

So it’s really an excellent investment to buy one if you don’t have enough time for daily meditation.

It also is a very useful tool for home-based therapists and instructors, since these pillows can be made elaborately with filling to suit each client’s needs.

Zafu and Zabuton Set

Materials used for Zafu and Zabuton set:

The fabric is hand dyed before sewing as well they are printed or embroidered by hand. Most of them are a basic white color.

Each zabuton has its own beauty beyond any comparison to the other but all consist of 1 yard of sashiko.

The Zafu is one of the basic meditation tools in Zen Buddhism. It helps with stability thus promoting quiet and a mindful attitude that can lead to a deep insight.

For those who hold their zabutons, it’s like having an “angel” on back for your support without any obstruction made by the use of arms or hands interfering with its’ natural position.

 This is the original fabric used to make meditation cushions with both sides or using it in different postures, whatever you prefer will give your zabuton personality.

How do you take care of your zabuton?

Before you even begin polishing the fabric, try to avoid any creases that may have formed in it at the seams. If possible, remove any folds and wrinkles from your zabuton before using it.

To do this neatly fold up one side of your zabuton right after removing all its contents by folding down four corners on half a square towards each other horizontally.

 At first treat folded-up zabutons as flat, folding it once with the white fabric facings on before polishing.

Make sure to use a soft brush and try to match gently moving patches of green cloth’s different shades onto one another.

Why use a Zafu and Zabuton set?

Some say a Zafu and Zabuton set is only for practitioners. That’s not it at all!

The best for you who have back problems, an office job and sit often in one position, they could use the Zafu and Zabuton set.

An answer to the question: do you need a Zafu or Zabuton, is of course “it depends on your body and intention”.

If you tall enough (more than 6ft) and want to use it in sitting posture, a zafu is necessary. Other wise almost any cushions will work just fine.

Tips for using a Zafu and Zabuton Set

You can place your zafu and zabuton in front of you, or behind you, or on both sides of you.

It is best to use a zafu and zabuton set when you are alone in your house, or when you are in a hotel room by yourself.

This allows you to clear your mind, and get rid of all the clutter that keeps you from being present in the moment.

The idea is to create a clean, crisp, clear, undisturbed space for your chi to flow.

I have several suggestions for things you can do with a zafu and zabuton set. However, before we get started, let me tell you what I think is important.

First, you should never use a zafu and zabuton set if you are just getting started. Not until you are seasoned, experienced, and can handle the intensity of the practice.

Secondly, if you are going to use a zafu and zabuton set, then you need to make sure it is something you can afford.

It should be something you will enjoy using, and that you will use often. This will keep you focused, and give your chi a clear pathway to flow.

Using both the back part (the big upholstered cushion) and leg parts together is also fine since we tend not to use them for posture support or relaxation as much anyway.

You should consider the purchase of a good quality set an investment, similar to buying a quality zafu and zabuton set.

You should treat it with the respect it deserves, and never abuse it by using it when you are not ready.

 I know many people who have purchased a quality set and then ended up getting rid of it because they were not ready for the intensity of practice.

Zafu and Zabuton Set

What is the proper posture while using the Zafu and Zabuton set?

The proper posture while using the Zafu and Zabuton set is to sit on it in such a way that your spine inclines towards gravity at about 7-8 degrees.

After some practice, you will find this becomes fairly easy without placing stress on your lower back.

This position may not be right for everyone and if so please seek guidance of an experienced meditation teacher or physical therapist before trying any new form of sitting cushion.

Conclusion:

The Zafu and Zabuton Set is the best and effective way to sit on the floor.

They are used as a flat support during sitting or kneeling meditation and relaxation, laying down in bed, or sleeping.

This sitting cushion provides maximum comfort and support for your back and spine, while also relieving pressure from your hips, knees, and ankles.

 There are several benefits of using a Zafu and Zabuton set. When purchasing one, it’s important to keep in mind that they come in different sizes, so you need to find the right size for your needs.

you’re not sure which size would be best for you, please consult with our expert team who will be able to assist you!

 It allows you to feel relaxed, more flexible in your joints, reduces pain from stress or injury as well.

It gives you a sense of wellbeing that is hard to achieve without it.

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