Meditating is done by many as a way to relax and stay healthy. However, for some, kneeling on the floor when meditating can be a little difficult to do. This could be due to it being hard to move up and down on the floor or because the ground might put pressure on your legs and lower back. To help prevent this, it might be a good idea to consider using a meditation bench. This item is designed to help keep your body supported when you meditate. To find out more about it, as well as some of the top meditation benches on the market today, you’ll want to keep reading.
- Green Eos Folding Meditation Bench
- Mindful and Modern Meditation Bench
- Meditation Designs Bench
- BLUECONY Travel Meditation Bench
- Meditation Seiza Bench
- Mudra Crafts Meditation Bench
- SPOKO Kneeling Bench
- Valiai Meditation Bench
- STOOLYOGA Bamboo Meditation Bench
- Bean Products Meditation Bench
What is a Meditation Bench?
A meditation bench, which is also referred to as a Zen kneeling bench, is a device designed to evenly distribute weight around the lower portion of your body when meditating.
How to Use a Meditation Bench
Using a meditation bench is somewhat simple. The first step is to get into a kneeling position. After doing so, lift your bottom up and slide the bench beneath it. While you will still be in a kneeling position when sitting on it, the bench prevents strain on your legs, lower back, and neck.
Once you place the meditation bench under your body, you can then keep it at its current angle/height, or adjust it according to your preferences. You can adjust the meditation bench by either moving it up or down if the model allows or by simply tilting the bench back and forth until it’s comfortable to sit on.
Benefits of Using a Meditation Bench
There are many benefits that come with using a meditation bench. Below are some you’ll discover if you decide to invest in one.
It Helps to Relax the Body
One of the best benefits about meditation benches is that they help to relax your body. Relaxation is crucial when meditating. If your body is tense or strained when kneeling to do so, it can affect your session. Meditation benches work to help prevent tension and strain by keeping your body aligned and free from extra pressure. This will work to help keep you both mentally and physically relaxed.
It is Easy to Use
At first glance, meditation benches might look a little daunting. However, they are extremely simple to use. All you need to do is kneel and slide the bench under you when meditating. You can then adjust the bench if necessary.
It Works to Improve Your Posture
Another benefit of using a meditation bench is that it can significantly improve your posture. When you kneel on the ground without support, your spine can curve which can cause pain. A meditation bench helps to keep your spine aligned when meditating which not only prevents pain, but encourages proper posture.
It Allows You to Be Flexible
For some meditation poses, you need to be able to freely move your body. However, certain meditation tools might not be very helpful with this. In fact, they might even limit you sometimes in your range of motion. Meditation benches don’t prevent you from moving around freely and encourage you to be more flexible because your body is aligned properly.
It Encourages Better Blood Circulation in Your Legs
When kneeling or sitting in a certain position for a long period of time, it can cause some problems with your blood circulation. Poor blood circulation can lead to pain, muscle tension, and lack of oxygen to the brain. Meditation benches help to prevent this by keeping your blood circulation active while you’re kneeling due to their elevation.
Things to Consider Before Investing in a Meditation Bench
Before shopping for a meditation bench, there are a few important things you’ll want to keep in mind. Below are some vital aspects to consider.
If the Bench Has a Built-In Cushion
When shopping for a meditation bench you’ll find that some models either have a solid top or one that is covered in a cushion. Because of this, it’s important to consider which option is best for your needs. A solid top might be ideal if you’d like to improve your posture, while a cushioned meditation bench might be good to use if you tend to have back problems and want to ensure you’re comfortable when meditating.
If You Want Angled or Rounded Legs
Another thing you’ll need to consider when shopping for a meditation bench is if you want it to have angled or rounded legs. While meditation benches should have a slight angle to help support your body and align your spine, you’ll find many products which come in various angles. For instance, some might have a very steep angle. A steep angle might work for some, but overall, sometimes it can throw off your balance which could make it difficult to sit on.
On the other hand, rounded edges are often ideal as all you need to do is tilt them until you’re comfortable. You don’t need to worry about adjusting the angle of the meditation bench with this type.
The Type of Wood
Meditation benches are constructed out of various types of wood. This ranges from a deep cherry wood to a light acacia wood. You’ll want to carefully consider the type of wood your meditation bench is made of. By doing so, you’ll not only find a model that matches your design preferences, but can keep up with your meditating lifestyle.
The type of wood you choose will also range in its durability. For instance, a thinner wood type, such as cherry wood, is usually ideal for those who don’t often meditate. On the other hand, for those who are faithful meditators, a thicker wood, like hardwood, is good to use.
Best Meditation Bench Product Reviews
1. Green Eos Folding Meditation Bench
This meditation bench by Green Eos is constructed out of durable bamboo and features a seat that is designed to help provide comfort to those who sit on it. This ergonomic seat helps to encourage better blood circulation in your legs while also preventing them from becoming tense and stiff. The seat is also slightly angled which works to keep your lower back free from pain.
The Green Eos Folding Meditation Bench is portable and features two legs on the side which can be folded underneath the bench for easier transport. When you need to use the bench again, you can easily pull the legs out and secure them back in place.
The stainless steel hinges built into the legs are designed to be durable, so there’s no need to worry that they will easily rust or not secure the legs well. The legs of this bench are also stable so there’s no need to fear it tilting over when you’re sitting on it. You can also safely use the bench with a zabuton for extra balance and support.
This product measures 18 x 8 inches making it somewhat compact. The Green Eos Folding Meditation Bench is also very lightweight as it only weighs three pounds. This means almost everyone will be able to easily move it around with problems. This meditation bench is very affordable making it ideal for those who are on a budget to invest in.
Pros
- The bench is compact and lightweight.
- It’s designed out of durable and sustainable bamboo.
- The legs can be folded.
Cons
- It might not be the best option for tall people.
- The bench could be a little uncomfortable for some to sit on.
- It might take a little time to learn how to balance on it.
2. Mindful and Modern Meditation Bench
The Mindful and Modern Meditation Bench is constructed out of durable bamboo pieces and features an etched flower on the top of the seat. The seat is slightly tilted which helps to keep your body comfortable and balanced when you sit on it. This angled feature also works to prevent spinal pain which can be common when sitting on a hard surface. To keep you supported, the bench has two legs on the side which are designed also out of thick bamboo pieces, and are attached to the bench with sturdy brass screws and hinges. The legs can be folded when you’re done using the meditation bench. When you want to use the bench again, the legs can be pulled out and secured back in place. This process is very easy to do and only takes a few seconds.
This product comes with a carrying bag you can place the folded bench in. This will help to prevent it from becoming dusty or damaged. The bag also comes with a handle on the top to help make transporting it around easier. Because the bench only weighs four pounds, it’s easy to lift and move around. This makes it ideal to invest in if you’re looking for a meditation bench to use while on the go.
The Mindful and Modern Meditation Bench measures 17 x 8 inches which makes it somewhat compact. The bench is 7.5 inches high at the bottom and 6 inches high at the top. This height can be adjusted depending on your preferences.
Pros
- This product comes in a stylish design.
- It’s made of durable bamboo.
- It can be folded.
- The bench comes with a carrying bag.
Cons
- The folding legs might not be the most aesthetically pleasing.
- It might be a little difficult for some to balance on.
3. Meditation Designs Bench
This meditation bench by Meditation Designs features legs made of thick acacia wood. This light-colored wood is smooth to the touch and provides a unique contrast to the soft cushion on the top of the bench. The cushion’s fabric comes in three different colors customers can choose from: black, blue, and white. When sitting on the bench, you’ll find that the cushion is able to support your body and keep your spine aligned. This way, you won’t have to worry about your legs or lower back hurting during or after your meditation session.
The legs of the bench aren’t foldable but are angled and rounded. This allows you to adjust the bench as necessary when you’re sitting on it while providing you with a secure support. The legs can be adjusted with two different height options so you can choose the one that works best for your needs. The legs can also be put on a rug without it somehow making the bench uneven which could cause it to tilt over.
This meditation bench measures 18 x 8 inches and weighs three pounds making it extremely compact and lightweight. The highest point of the bench measures about 8 inches. The bench is designed to be used by those under 5’11”. For users who are over this height limit, you might find it difficult to use.
Pros
- This option is both compact and lightweight.
- This bench features a soft cushion on the top.
- The legs are angled and rounded allowing you to adjust the bench to your preferences.
Cons
- The legs might be a little slippery on hard surfaces.
- The fabric isn’t the most durable. This means you might find that it fades a bit after a few uses.
- The cushion might be a little too plush for some.
4. BLUECONY Travel Meditation Bench
The BLUECONY Travel Meditation Bench comes in a natural wood color or dark walnut option. Designed to be extremely compact to help make it easier to carry around, this meditation bench features a slightly angled top to make sitting on it comfortable. The bench’s highest point reaches 6 inches although you can adjust this depending on your preferences with three built-in options. Because of this adjustment feature, even those over six-feet tall can use this meditation bench with ease.
The curve of the bench is also designed to help provide comfort when you sit. This is because it encourages better blood circulation and gives support to the muscles in your lower body. In fact, because it works to keep you relaxed, the bench can also promote better breathing when you meditate.
This meditation bench features two sturdy legs built into the side of it. These legs aren’t foldable, but have a slight angle to them which helps you to adjust the elevation of the bench as necessary. In addition to this, the bench can be safely placed on a rug or cushion without tilting over or sliding around. This product comes with a cotton travel bag that you can put the bench in to help protect it from possible damages. To do, simply slides each of the legs off of the bench and place the three pieces into the travel bag.
Pros
- The design of the bench helps to promote better breathing when you meditate.
- The bench’s height can be adjusted in three different ways.
- This product can be taken apart and placed into its travel bag for better transport.
Cons
- This model is a little pricey.
- It might be too tall for some people.
- You need to make sure the legs are secured back on the bench if you take them off. Otherwise, it might slip.
5. Meditation Seiza Bench
This product by Meditation Bench comes in a design that is unique compared to traditional meditation benches. While most are constructed out of wood, this option is made out of plastic and metal. The bench is attached to a small metal rod which is secured to a compact plastic base to help prevent it from slipping around. The bench features a slight padding on the top and can be adjusted to various angles. In addition to this, users can also move the bench up or down with the three built-in height levels. This can be done by pushing a button built into the small metal rod and then moving the bench to your desired height. When you’re done using your meditation bench, you can take it apart by using this button as well. To do this, simply press the button to its highest level and then slide the top of the bench out of the metal rod. You will then be left with two pieces: the top of the bench and the base/metal rod.
The Meditation Seiza Bench is portable and weighs less than a pound making it lightweight. While it doesn’t come with a travel case, the bench is compact enough to be placed in a bag of your choice.
Pros
- It comes in two color options: black and white.
- This product can be adjusted with three different height levels.
- It’s portable and lightweight.
- The bench is curved which helps to keep you secured to this device when sitting on it. It will also provide support to your lower back and legs.
Cons
- It doesn’t come with a travel bag.
- There is a 200 lb. weight limit.
- The padding on the top of the bench isn’t the most durable. This could cause it to slightly wear off over time.
6. Mudra Crafts Meditation Bench
The Mudra Crafts Meditation Bench is made out of pine wood and covered with black cushion. The pine wood is smooth and free from hard grains and splinters. The cushion of this bench measures 18 x 7 inches and has a thickness of 2.5 inches. This cushion is designed to not only provide you with comfort, but keep your body secure on it as well. The legs of this meditation bench are attached with strong metal hinges and screws which help to ensure it keeps you steady when you sit on it. In addition to this, because of the hinges, the legs can be folded. This feature can be very helpful if you’d like to take your meditation bench with you while on the go or to store it away. To fold the legs, you just need to gently tap them and push them into the bench until they are flat.
The legs are also slightly curved allowing you to tilt the bench to your desired preference when meditating. Despite being curved, the legs are designed to stay secure on all surfaces, such as carpeting and hard flooring, so there’s no need to worry about it sliding around.
The Mudra Crafts Meditation Bench only weighs 3.7 lbs. making it a lightweight option. It can fit people up to 6’1”. In addition to meditation, this bench can also be used for yoga.
Pros
- This product is constructed out of durable pine wood.
- The legs are slightly angled which allow you to tilt the bench.
- It’s lightweight.
- It can be used by tall people.
Cons
- It only comes in one design.
- The fabric of the cushion might fade a bit.
- It doesn’t come with a travel bag. This could make transporting it around a bit difficult.
7. SPOKO Kneeling Bench
This meditation kneeling bench by SPOKO features durable cherry wood pieces that are deeply stained to provide a traditional look. This bench features two angled legs on the bottom that are connected to a curved platform at the top. This piece is flat in the middle and slowly curves upward as a way to help fully support your body and make it comfortable to sit on. The curvature also works to help keep your spine aligned which can prevent back pain. In addition to this, it helps with encouraging better blood circulation and breathing. You’ll also find the top of the bench measures 16 inches which will provide your body with plenty of room when you sit on it.
The SPOKO Kneeling Bench can be disassembled if you’d like to carry it around while on the go. To take this bench apart, all you need to do is slide the legs off of the bench. Once you do so, you’ll be left with three separate pieces: the top of the bench and two legs. When it comes time to use the bench again, you can easily slide the legs back on the bench and secure them in place. The bench weighs about four pounds so it’s somewhat lightweight. It’s also designed to be used by people under six feet tall.
Besides meditation, this kneeling bench can also be used for yoga, as a stool, or even a chair for kids.
Pros
- It’s constructed out of durable cherry wood pieces.
- The curvature of the bench works to keep your body secure and comfortable.
- It can be taken apart easily.
Cons
- There is no height adjustment feature.
- It’s a little pricey.
- It doesn’t come with a carrying case.
- The bench might not provide the best support to your knees.
8. Valiai Meditation Bench
The Valiai Meditation Bench is constructed out of oak wood and measures 20 x 8 x 7 inches. Unlike other similar products, this meditation bench is constructed out of one solid piece that curves around to form two legs and an area for you to sit on. This means that it can’t be folded or adjusted, but it’s extremely secure as you won’t have to worry about hinges collapsing or the legs not being properly tightened on the bench.
The top of the bench slightly tilts down which not helps to keep your spine straight, but provide comfort to your lower body as well. It also keeps your blood circulation moving well and encourages better breathing. Due to this, this meditation bench can help you to have a more relaxing meditation session as your body won’t be as tense or in pain when sitting on it.
The space between the bench’s legs is wide enough to provide enough room for your legs so you can move around with ease. When you’re done using this bench, you can wipe it off with a wet towel without fear of the water somehow damaging your meditation bench. The Valiai Meditation Bench weighs three pounds and can be transported around easily thanks to it being lightweight. Besides serving as a meditation bench, this product can also be used for tea ceremonies and yoga.
Pros
- It comes in a minimalist design.
- It’s lightweight and compact.
- The bench is slightly tilted helping to keep your body secure when sitting on it.
- This product can be used for many other activities, like tea ceremonies.
Cons
- The bench might be a little uncomfortable for some to sit on.
- It can’t be taken apart which might make it difficult to transport around.
- It could be a little pricey for some.
9. STOOLYOGA Bamboo Meditation Bench
This meditation bench by STOOLYOGA is constructed out of organic bamboo pieces. While simple in its design, the bench features slightly angled legs to help support your body. There is a small space beneath the bench if you want to do the Seiza pose, but this product can also be used as a regular sitting bench for other poses as well. Because of its tilting feature, this bench works to help keep your body comfortable when sitting on it.
The two legs on this meditation bench are connected to the top piece with steel hinges and screws. This way, you can be sure they will work to keep you supported when meditating on the bench. In addition to this, the hinges also allow you to fold the legs beneath the top panel when you’re done using the bench. This helps to make it even more compact and easier for you to carry around.
To prevent the legs from moving around when they are folded, this bench features powerful magnets built into the bottom of the top piece. The magnets will keep the legs secure to the panel until you need to re-adjust them again. There are also small finger slits on the sides of the legs so you can carefully pull the legs back out when you need to use this meditation bench again.
The STOOLYOGA Bamboo Meditation Bench weighs four pounds and comes with a carrying bag you can use to keep your bench free from damage when moving it around.
Pros
- It’s designed out of organic bamboo.
- It can be used for various meditation poses.
- It’s compact and lightweight.
- There are magnets built into the bench to help keep the legs secure when they are folded.
Cons
- It might be a little short for tall people.
10. Bean Products Meditation Bench
The Bean Products Meditation Bench is constructed out of bamboo pieces. The top of the bench is slightly rounded providing users with plenty of space to sit. The two legs at the bottom of the bench are slightly rounded as well allowing you to adjust the height of the bench according to your preferences. These legs are connected to the top piece with hinges. Unlike many other products, this meditation bench uses double hinges which are tightened to help ensure they don’t disconnect from the bench or cause it to slip around if you place the bench on a hard surface. In addition to this, the hinges and its screws are rust-proof.
This product measures 19.5 x 7.5 x 7 inches. While this product doesn’t have a built-in cushion, it can be used with separate cushions, such as a zabuton, to provide even more comfort to you when using it. This meditation bench can also be placed on a zabuton mat to provide extra support to your body when kneeling.
The Bean Products Meditation Bench weighs less than four pounds and can be used by those under six feet tall. While it doesn’t have a weight limit, it can safely support those who weigh less than 200 lbs.
Pros
- It’s made of bamboo.
- Both the bench and legs are slightly rounded to help provide extra support to your body.
- The bench is foldable and has extra-tight screws and hinges built into it.
- It can be used with both zabuton mats and cushions.
Cons
- You need to make sure the legs are secured back in place before you use the bench.
- It might be a little high for some which could affect your meditation session.
- It might not be the most durable option.
- It doesn’t come with a tote bag.
Meditation benches are a great tool to use if you want to keep your body happy and healthy while meditating. They not only come in various designs but feature many unique benefits, such as improving your blood circulation when meditating and preventing nerve pain and tension in your lower body. One product to definitely consider checking out from our product reviews is the STOOLYOGA Bamboo Meditation Bench. This bench is not only durable but can improve your posture and prevent lower back pain. It also has a tilting feature which allows you to adjust the bench according to your preferences. Because of this, it’s ideal for both seasoned and beginning meditators to use.
