How to Use The Crystal Cove Oval Meditation Cushion

Sitting on a meditation cushion looks incredibly easy to an observer. After all, isn't the whole point to relax and get comfortable? The truth is many traditional poses, like the popular Full Lotus pose, aren't comfortable for every body type. For most who practice mediation, rotating the hips too far or holding the knees in an unnatural position can cause pain and discomfort when seated for too long. 

The upside? There are plenty of alternative ways to use your Crystal Cove Meditation Cushion to suit your needs and level of flexibility. Plus, it's fun to switch up your routine every now and then for a different meditative experience. Here are five simple and easy meditation poses to try with a meditation cushion.  

Kneeling With Support

Kneeling is a popular meditation pose, but without the right support, it can become painful for those with sensitive knees or ankles. Use your Crystal Cove Meditation Cushion — featuring a soft, stretch-knit cover — for support between your knees in a kneeling position. It'll remove the pressure on your joints and promote circulation in your legs. Nothing will interrupt a meditation session like your limbs falling asleep.

Half or Quarter Lotus Pose

Shown: Quarter Lotus Pose

Full Lotus is a well-known meditation pose — but it’s actually considered advanced. Easier on the knees and hips than the traditional position is the Quarter Lotus variation. Shown above using the Crystal Cove Meditation Cushion for support, this alternative is great for opening the hips, knees, and ankles. Just assume a cross-legged position and gently place your right ankle on the opposite calf.

Once you feel comfortable in a Quarter Lotus position, try progressing to the Half Lotus pose. To do so, place that same ankle a bit higher, allowing it to rest on the upper thigh of the opposite leg.

Simple Cross-Legged Pose

It doesn't get much easier than this! For minimal strain on your joints, sit in a simple cross-legged pose while still stretching your knees and keeping your hips open. In this position, using a meditation cushion helps to keep you from rounding out your back, allowing the spine to stay in alignment for longer and more comfortable meditation sessions. 

If you find your feet falling asleep (this can happen in this pose), consider switching to the kneeling with support pose to take weight off of your ankles and improve circulation.

Arched Back 

Not quite a seated pose, this position is designed to open your chest and ribcage for deeper, longer breaths during meditation and breathing exercises. It's also a great way to relieve lower back pain and stretch out your abdomen after your yoga practice. Sit with the meditation cushion right behind your hips, then lean back with your arms overhead to open up your chest. Then, simply take a deep breath, and relax. 

Child’s Pose

Is it just me, or is Child's Pose everyone's favorite? This version touts an extra-comfortable place to rest your head. A simple option for beginners, this full-body pose is incredibly relaxing and stretches your thighs, hips, side body, and back. After a few deep breaths, you'll feel the stress melt away instantly.

Love the Crystal Cove Oval Meditation Cushion? Check out our entire Crystal Cove Yoga Collection and GOTS organic certified yoga mats.