While using a meditation bench isn’t a complete necessity, some folks like it since it might assist you to attain the right position and keep you more relaxed. These benches can be particularly beneficial for people who have back problems. Meditation benches are available in a multitude of sizes and shapes, so it makes sense to do some homework before you spend your money to ensure you’re buying the best product.
In this post, we’ll go over some of the advantages of making meditation benches part of your mindfulness exercise as well as certain things to think about before purchasing one. Also, we’ll suggest some ways that can help you use the meditation bench effectively, and also present with you some of the best products on the market right now.
Our Meditation Bench Recommendations in a Nutshell
1. IKUKO By Bluecony Kneeling Ergonomic Meditation Bench (Most Ergonomic)
Features
- Wild cherrywood design
- Easy to assemble
- Expensive
2. Mudra Crafts Portable Wood Yoga Meditation Bench (Best Value For Money)
Features
- Made from solid pine
- Great price
- Lightweight
3. Religious Gifts Maple Hardwood Prayer Kneeler (Most Comfortable)
Features
- Very comfortable
- Heavy
- Non-foldable
4. Oriental Furniture Om Meditation Stoolation Stool (Most Versatile)
Features
- Folds down easily
- A little expensive
- Doesn’t come with a cushion
5. SPOKO Meditation Bench (Overall Best Option)
Features
- Great price
- Vibrant colors
- Non-foldable
The Benefits of Using a Meditation Bench
As previously indicated, meditation benches are not required for a good meditation, but they sure make things a bit more pleasant for you. Kneeling or sitting for a long time can put a considerable measure of tension on your knees, neck, and back. Using meditation benches helps ease some of the tension by keeping your spine straight and providing comfort for your knees to help mitigate the discomfort that comes with kneeling on hard surfaces.
What to Look For In a Meditation Bench
Design
There’re two different styles to choose from when you go about looking for a meditation bench to buy. The first design is the so-called I-shaped meditation bench. Users would need to insert their legs in between the legs of these benches, which are close to the outside.
A meditation bench with the shape of a Pi functions slightly differently than an I-shaped meditation bench. While they aim to achieve the same goal, these meditation benches have single or double legs at the bench’s center, with the participant’s legs on either the bench’s side.
A Pie-shaped bench may be more suited for taller users since it is more convenient to move your legs into and out in a kneeling posture without causing additional fatigue for you.
Height and Weight Capacity
In terms of design, material, and size, meditation benches come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Check the height and weight capacities of the meditation bench you’re considering to be certain it’ll work for you.
Is it better to be padded or not? Another crucial step in the selection process is this. Not every meditation bench is cushioned. So, while you can add a towel or cushion to make the bench comfier, is it truly worth the trouble when a cushioned version costs only a few extra bucks?
Adjustability
Some meditation benches aren’t adaptable, which might be an issue if you’re short or tall. You can utilize cushions or towels to make it more comfortable, but this isn’t ideal, particularly if you’re using your bench on the go, because it’s just one more thing to consider bringing with you.
Storage and Portability
Take some time to evaluate where you will be putting your meditation bench to use before making your choice. If you want to move your bench frequently, choose one that is lightweight and, optimally, foldable. If you’re short of room and simply want to use the bench for mediation, you may do the same thing.
How to Make the Most of a Meditation Bench
As previously said, there’re two primary styles of meditation benches, and we’ll go through how you can use each of them in this section.
1. The I-shape Meditation Bench
When adopting an I-shaped bench the very first thing you want to do is to be in a kneeling posture on the ground. Then, with your bottom raised off your ankles, push the bench beneath you. Lastly, make any necessary adjustments to the bench until its position is comfortable for you.
One of the most important considerations is to ensure that the bench supports your weight and that your ankles are flat against the ground, in the space between the two legs of the bench. You could find it much comfier to prop your legs with a meditation cushion or a blanket. This way, you may relax by letting your legs hang over the side.
2. Pi-shaped
Start your meditation in a kneeling posture on the floor with a Pi-shaped bench, such as the I-shaped type above, and slip the meditation bench in the space between your legs and beneath you. Although many people prefer this type of meditation bench to the I-shaped option, you can place a cushion on it to give it a softer kneeling surface.
Do any modifications after you’re seated on the bench to make sure there is no strain on your ankles or knees and that your torso is properly supported. Ensure that your spine is upright and your shoulders are comfortably laid back by adjusting the bench’s inclination. Be cautious not to lean too far forward on the bench, since this can put additional pressure on your knees.
Note: No matter the option you settle for, ensure you set it to the height that is ideal for you. Your ankles would be put under additional strain if you sit on a seat that is a bit too low. An overly high bench will put too much strain on your knees. If the bench doesn’t have any modification options, just raise or lower it with some blankets or towels.
Meditation for Those Who Suffer From Bad Knees
For anyone that suffers from bad knees, height is crucial when considering meditation benches, especially those who suffer from bad knees. It ought to be sufficiently high to accommodate the meditator’s upper body mass, reducing the amount of strain that his knees will experience.
There’re meditation benches, like the Ikuko Ergonomic Meditation Bench, that have been specifically designed for individuals with poor posture or bad knees (as shown in the review below). Just keep in mind that these meditation benches are far more expensive than your average meditation bench.
1. IKUKO Kneeling, Ergonomic Meditation Bench by Bluecony
Measurements: 16.5” x 7.9” x 7.”1
Weight: 3.49lb.
The IKUKO mindfulness bench by Bluecony is a meditation wonder, specifically developed by posture and ergonomics professionals to aid individuals who find it difficult using conventional meditation benches. Its goal is to assist the meditator to restore their normal spinal curvature, which it accomplishes admirably thanks to the bench’s tilted design.
Bluecony’s IKUKO is crafted of wild cherrywood, making it both sturdy and attractive. It’s also the ideal bench for carrying about because of its lightness and the fact that you can easily assemble it. To make it even more convenient, it features its own tiny (one hundred percent natural) cotton pouch. The fact that this meditation bench isn’t flexible is the biggest issue I have with it. And, while it appears to work best for people who are at least 5’8, those who are a bit shorter might require a few supports.
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Wild cherrywood build
Cons
- Non-adjustable
- Expensive
2. Mudra Crafts Portable Kneeling Meditation Bench
Measurements: 18.8” x 7.4” x 4.1”
Weight: 4.1lb
Mudra Crafts’ basic, yet efficient, made-of-wood meditation bench is the ideal solution for anybody wanting to save a couple of bucks. However, simply because it is one of the more affordable versions doesn’t imply it’s of poor quality. This bench, which is made of genuine thick pinewood, is totally sturdy when in it is useful and is expected to last a long time.
The slow-closing hinges are among the best features of this meditation bench. There’re no nuts to stress over, and no collapse to be worried about. The bench’s cushioning is rather comfy, and it is not too bulky, making it great for portability. After placing your order, you’ll also receive some complimentary Mala beads! The only major flaw I noticed with this meditation bench is that there’s no way you can adjust its height, so be careful if you are above six feet tall.
Pros
- Portable and lightweight
- Great price
- Made of solid pine
Cons
- Not great for people above six feet
3. Religious Gifts Maple Hardwood Personal Bed Time Prayer Kneeler
Measurements: 16” x 6.5” x 12.5”
Weight: 8.55lb
In my opinion, the Religious Gifts’ maple hardwood meditation bench is among the comfiest meditation benches available in the market. And that has to be among the most gorgeous appearances. This bench is offered in a walnut or pecan satin finish and looks wonderful in almost any setting. The knee pad is large, and the bench is deep, providing more assistance when you are kneeling.
With a weight of over eight pounds and the inability to fold, it is not ideal for traveling or storing in a small area. However, with its attractive appearance, and high quality, why should you? It’s long-lasting, flame-resistant, and reasonably priced, so I would say that it is an incredible deal.
Pros
- Very comfy
- Attractive maple hardwood build
- Double stain finish choices
Cons
- Non-foldable
- Heavy
4. Oriental Furniture Om Meditation Stool
Dimensions:2.5 x 18 x 8.2 inches
Weight: 4.65 Pounds
This lovely foldable meditation seat from Mindful Modern is ideal for travel because it fits nicely, is lightweight, and features a carrying case. The meditation seat and accompanying travel bag have a beautiful lotus motif imprinted on the bench.
It’s composed of bamboo, a more eco-friendly and stronger option than wood. It boasts strong, long-lasting hinges that provide dependable support. The carrying bag that comes with it is machine washable and features sturdy handles.
Pros
- Made of eco-friendly, durable bamboo
- Strong hinges
- Lightweight and compact
- Features a machine-washable carrying case
- Includes a money-back guarantee
Cons
- Not enough space
5. STOOLYOGA Portable Meditation Bench
Measurements: 16 x 5.5 x 7 inches
Weight: 3.95 lb.
The STOOLYOGA Portable Meditation Bench isn’t only constructed of eco-sustainable bamboo; it’s also built from organic, responsibly harvested bamboo and ethically produced in the US.
This handmade yoga bench has strong, quiet stainless-steel hinges for amazing strength, as well as integrated magnets that keep the legs together, making it easy to transport and carry. It’s simple to open and shut firmly without hurting fingers because the indented finger sits.
Just keep in mind that there’s no padding, so people who’d want more comforts should bring their cushion.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Can easily fold down
Cons
- Doesn’t include a cushion
- Somewhat costly
Conclusion
Being in discomfort while meditating is one disadvantage that will always lurk around the corner. Fortunately, with the help of a meditation bench, that’ll quickly become a distant memory, and you’ll knock yourself for not getting one earlier enough! We sincerely hope you find the above-mentioned information and review to be informative and that you’re now close to making your buy. If you are still undecided about which version or brand to settle for, have another look at our top pick, the Pi To Go Folding Meditation Bench. It is well-made and sturdy, yet it fits nicely so compactly that it is the perfect meditation bench to carry with you everywhere you go.