You may have seen yoga mats, but you’ve probably never used a yoga cushion before. It is essential that you know what they are and how to use them so that you can reap all of their health benefits.
Yoga cushions are made from different materials so there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to using them. The best yoga cushions should be comfortable enough to support your body without causing injury or pain. If you don’t know which type of material your mattress uses then try out an organic cotton pillowcase instead. This will give you a good idea of how your yoga cushion would feel if placed on top of the same bedding.
If you’re looking to buy a new coussin zafu, make sure that it has some form of padding inside so that you can get maximum comfort while practicing your poses.
The main types of yoga cushions are foam, memory foam, latex, gel, and water-filled. You will be able to find yoga mats that come with a built in yoga cushion as well. These mats usually have more than one layer of padding inside so you won’t need to purchase any additional accessories.
Foam
Foam yoga cushions are by far the most popular choice amongst yogis. They are light weight, durable, and offer excellent support during practice.
For optimum performance, the foam yoga cushion needs to be thick. Thicker foam allows you to sink into it for added comfort. Foam is also ideal for people who suffer from back pain because the deep compression reduces pressure points.
Most yoga mats include a built-in foam yoga cushion that is covered with either soft fabric or plastic. If you want to purchase a separate yoga cushion, consider getting one that is thicker and harder. Also, keep in mind that foam yoga cushions are not recommended for pregnant women.
If you are not familiar with foam, here’s how it works:
It is a closed-cell polyurethane foam that is often referred to as polyfoam.
The cells hold air inside and allow them to expand and contract easily.
They have a high density that doesn’t compress easily.
Their resilience means that they recover quickly after compression.
Memory foam
Memory foam is another option if you want to invest in a solid yoga cushion. Memory foam mattresses are known for promoting sleep through their ability to compress while retaining shape. They are also great for those who experience joint pains, muscle tension, and chronic stress.
Memory foam is also considered a “temperature neutral” material. That is to say that it does not heat up or cool down much depending on its environment. This makes it ideal for the cold regions of Canada and the United States where temperatures fluctuate throughout the year.
Memory foam yoga cushions are typically made from two layers of foam. One side of each layer is hollowed out so that it can mold itself to your body. As you sink into the foam, it becomes firm around your joints and spine. This helps prevent injuries, reduce muscle tension, and relieve discomfort associated with arthritis.
The main downside to memory foam is that it can become too hot over time. To avoid this, it is important to choose a memory foam yoga cushion that is at least two inches thick. You should also ensure that the cover is breathable and washable.
Latex
Latex is the next best thing if you don’t like foam. Latex is a natural fiber that resembles rubber. It is hypoallergenic, odorless, dust-free, fire-resistant, and non-toxic.
It is commonly used in furniture making, medical applications, and clothing manufacturing. However, latex yoga cushions are becoming increasingly popular as a great alternative to traditional foam.
Latex yoga cushions are easy to clean and maintain. They are also resistant to stains, mildew, and dirt. The only downside is that they tend to break down faster than other types of yoga cushions.
When purchasing a latex yoga cushion, be sure to look for one that is breathable, odor-proof, and stain-resistant.
Gel
Gel is another great alternative to foam and latex yoga cushions. Gel yoga cushions are made from a synthetic polymer that mimics the properties of human skin. In fact, it is softer than human skin.
This material is lightweight, durable, and very effective at relieving stress and reducing joint pain. It is suitable for people who cannot tolerate foam or latex yoga cushions.
Like other types of yoga cushions, gel yoga cushions come in different thicknesses. It is best to go for a gel yoga cushion that is between 2-3 inches thick. This ensures that it provides enough support for proper alignment while also being soft enough to cushion your joints.
Water-filled
A water-filled yoga cushion is ideal for anyone suffering from arthritis or rheumatism. They provide superior support and offer a lot of extra padding.
As an added bonus, these cushions are environmentally friendly. They do not contain harmful chemicals such as phthalates or PVC which are found in traditional yoga cushions. Water-filled cushions are also safe to use for pregnant women and children.
