What is a zabuton?

In the Zen tradition, seated meditation requires two cushions: a zafu and a zabuton. If you go into almost any meditation center, you’ll see these two cushions paired together, lined up in neat, parallel rows for students.

Today, a variety of traditions and practices beyond Zen use these cushions. However, zafus, those puffy, cloud-like seats, are more popular as standalone meditation cushions. This of course makes perfect sense. Think of these cushions as part of a Zen rock band: the zafu is the lead guitar, soloing out front, while the zabuton is the bass player, laying down a steady groove. When you have a great bass player, you don’t necessarily notice them all that much — but take the bass out of the mix and, boy, you realize right away that something is missing!

Zabutons are an important but occasionally overlooked cushion that will greatly increase your comfort and stability during meditation. They are also a must-have for longer periods of sitting. If you are working up to a meditation retreat, whether a day, a weekend, or more, a zabuton will greatly increase the amount of time per session that you can meditate comfortably!

Here’s everything you need to know about these traditional cushions, so you can decide if one is right for you:

What is a zabuton?

The zabuton is a traditional Japanese cushion that traces its popularity back to the Edo period (1603-1868), when Zen practitioners used them in their meditation halls. The word “zabuton” is derived from the Japanese words “za” (sitting) and “buton” (cushion). 

Zabutons are square or rectangular cushions that you can think of almost like a miniature futon — and, yes, if you’re following the Japanese etymology, “futon” and “buton” are the same word! The zabuton is the foundation of your meditation practice, because everything else, including you, rests on top of it. It is humble, yet essential, protecting your knees and ankles from the hard floor.

The cushion provided a comfortable and stable base for the meditator to sit on, allowing them to focus on their breath and aid in reaching a meditative state.

Although some manufacturers make zabutons with synthetic fibers, we make our zabutons locally with 100% high-quality cotton duck fabrics and cotton batting. We finish each one in our Vashon Island workshop, where we put care into creating cushions that will serve you for years.

History of the zabuton

Prior to the introduction of cotton to Japan in the 1400s, round cushions stuffed with hay were common. During the Edo period, Zen Buddhism became increasingly popular in Japan, and Zen meditation practices began to spread. As a result, the cotton-stuffed zabuton became an essential item in Zen temples.

Over time, the zabuton became popular not only in Zen temples but also in households. Traditionally, Japanese households use these cushions for seating, sleeping, and even as a decorative item. The design of the zabuton evolved over time, with different sizes and shapes being developed for different purposes.

In contrast to the traditional meditation style, zabutons today can also be ornate, featuring tassels and bright fabrics, depending on the preferences of the individual.

Proper usage of your meditation cushion

When sitting with a zafu and zabuton, traditionally, you will form a tripod with your pelvis on the zafu as one point and your knees as the other two points. They are also perfect for sitting in the traditional kneeling position, seiza, using a meditation bench. Zabutons are wide enough to support your body, without ankles or knees poking out over the edges, no matter which meditation posture you prefer.

If you think of the zabuton as your foundation, you can build from there. If you don’t have a zafu, you can find another cushion that works well for you. You can pair a zabuton with a meditation bench, gomden, or…nothing at all!

For more about how to sit comfortably in the tripod position, check out our Sitting Tips. 

Whether you are a beginning or long time meditator, a zabuton will allow you to sit more comfortably for longer. They are perfect for extended periods of meditation or for working up to a meditation retreat.

Zabuton products from Still Sitting

We offer four different zabuton products, each with their own style and functionality.

Regular Zabuton – The original that started it all: a firm and comfortable sitting experience. Our Regular Zabuton has three inches of loft, weighs 4 – 7 pounds depending on its size, and is durable enough to be hauled around. We offer three sizes based on height. This zabuton comes in a Standard or Deluxe version. Standard comes with a non-removable cover and the tufting shows. The Deluxe Zabuton has a 100% cotton muslin inner lining, which is tufted. It comes with a machine washable removable cover in the color of your choice.

Thick Zabuton – If you’re looking for something with a little extra cushioning, look no farther! Our thick zabuton comes in the same sizes as our regular zabuton. In terms of fill, it has 5 inches of loft (an extra two inches). It is stuffed with 100% cotton batting and comes in both a Standard and Deluxe version.

Kyoto Collection Zabuton – We craft these elegant zabutons from a delightful selection of Japanese textiles, designed to evoke classical Zen aesthetics.  They are all Deluxe, with removable covers and inner muslin covered cushions. Choose from three special 100% cotton fabrics: Zen Waves, Japanese Maple, and Midnight Surf. This collection can come in either regular (3 inch loft) or thick (5 inch loft).

Folding Zabuton – This Still Sitting original is the latest of our offerings and our first cushion made with foam fill. It is exceptionally comfortable, while being light, thin and more portable than traditional versions. You can fold it cleanly in half, making it an excellent choice for retreats. It is less than 2” high, and only about 3.5” high when folded. This zabuton is compact and easy to store, even in very small spaces. If space is an issue at home or you don’t have a dedicated meditation space, the folding zafu is a perfect solution.

Read more about how to choose the right zabuton for you.

Happy Sitting!