Buckwheat-Filled Zafu

by John
(UK)

I use a buckwheat-filled zafu for sitting zazen. The benefit of this type of zafu is that you can sit in lotus or half-lotus easily for shorter periods (20-30 minutes) or you can prop it sideways and sit on your knees for longer periods. The buckwheat does compress after time, but you just unzip the cover and add more (this is one reason it's better than ordinary zafus). It's a bit messy, but it's an easy enough clean up.

The costs for such a zafu will range from 30-100 dollars, depending on whether a zabuton is also included. You can also make your own with a sturdy burlap or canvas!