Meditation cushions are speciality items, not the kind of thing you can pick up at your local discount department store. This means that many of the skilled artisans who make them do a lot of custom work. Choosing the right meditation cushions can mean the difference between a painful, frustrating session of squirming and shifting to find a comfortable sitting position and being able to sit without pain, serenely relaxed so that you can derive the maximum benefit from your practice.
Your search for spiritual enlightenment will fail if your back is aligned incorrectly, or you suffer an injury to your back or have terrible discomfort, as these problems will distract you during meditation. The “meditation or the lotus pose” is easily recognized, so much so that it has become an icon. Every day in print media about any subject, advertisers find ways to depict people sitting in a somewhat cross-legged position with hands making a fancy “mudra” (forefinger connected to thumb in a perfect o). The truth is that this position is neither healthy nor sustainable. It takes so much effort to hold this pose that it won’t last a second longer than it takes to click the shutter. This false, popularized symbol for what meditation is supposed to look like is conceived by those who have neither practised meditation nor plan to. The reason: these people are sitting on a flat surface. When sitting on a flat surface, it’s almost worse than sitting on a chair or sofa. The muscles of the front torso must strain to keep the body from collapsing backwards.
If more people realized that there is a way to sit without back support that is not only effortless, but increases the power of concentration, lowers heart rate, decreases blood pressure, deepens breathing, and stimulates the ‘relaxation response’, they would probably give it a try. your energy must be allowed free circulation throughout your body during meditation. A proper cushion for yoga and meditation will allow these spiritual and physical dynamics to occur.
Meditation cushions provide needed support so your body can achieve the best and most healthy spinal alignment and posture possible. This cushion configures the spine according to the sitting posture of lotus, half-lotus or a kneeling posture. The practitioner learns to tuck in her lower back and to keep the spine in a straight line.
Curving out the upper back and gently tucking in the neck, with the head held as if balancing a book on top of the head, allows for the best posture. Spinal stress is minimised, and one’s sitting sessions are more effective, reducing potential physical harm. After all, meditation is not supposed to be an endurance test, and comfort is the key to a successful practice.
Most of the widely used meditation cushions can be divided into zafus and zabutons. Zafu can be translated as a ‘cushion for sitting’ or ‘sitting cushion’, where za means ‘sitting’ or ‘sit’ and fu means ‘cushion’. The zafu enhances meditation by helping you get in touch with your breath and the wonders of being present in the moment right now. The words zabuton, zafuton and futon are closely linked. The word ‘zazen’, meaning ‘seated meditation’ or ‘sitting meditation’, is also closely linked. In Western terms, colloquially speaking, ‘zafu’ refers to a meditation cushion, and ‘zabuton’ refers to the cushioned mat on which a zafu is placed.
With meditation cushions, an incense burner nearby and subtle music, you know when you enter that space that it’s a meditative space. It just feels different from ordinary space and helps you relax.
All meditation and yoga cushions can broadly be divided into zafus and zabutons. The purpose these cushions are the same- to make you comfortable enough during your practice so you can get maximum benefit out of it. It depends on your individual preference and body type, which determines which type of cushion you go for. Traditionally, zafus are either round or semi-circular, and zabutons are typically long and flat and vary in length.
The basic cushion, and the one you’ll probably find you can’t do without, is the zafu. A traditional zafu is a plump, round, pleated cushion, usually stuffed firmly with cotton, buckwheat hulls, kapok or microfiber. This cushion, positioned under your tush, serves to support your spine in an upright sitting position, providing enough height so that you can sit in full or half-lotus or simply with your legs crossed, and ideally with your knees resting on the floor. The slight tilt that results correctly aligns your spine in an erect posture and provides the most stable position for extended periods of sitting.
Zafus come in several sizes, and there isn’t much standardisation; a regular-sized zafu can be anywhere from 33 to 35 cm in diameter, and between 12 and 20 cm high. Larger zafus, 38 – 40 cm by 17 – 20 cm, usually work better for taller folks who have long legs and need more height to sit cross-legged in comfort. In general, if you are 1.78 cm or taller, you will want to purchase a larger zafu, while if you are under 1.78 cm, the smaller or regular-sized cushion will work for you.
Note that weight and/or girth aren’t usually significant; short or average-height plump people generally sit very comfortably on regular-sized zafus. The size of the cushion you need for maximum comfort has much more to do with your height than your weight/
So take your pick from our range of traditional round zafus and enjoy your practice.
The crescent-shaped zafu has become increasingly popular in recent years. This, as the name suggests, is a pleated zafu cut and sewn in a crescent or kidney-bean shape. Roughly two-thirds the size of a round zafu, the crescent cushion is favoured by some practitioners because it’s a bit more streamlined, and because the shape of the cushion provides more support for your upper thighs. It also provides more space to tuck in your heels as you sit, if a full lotus posture is difficult to maintain.
So take your pick from our range of crescent zafus and enjoy your practice.
A well-constructed zafu has the following features: it has a zippered or hook-and-loop closure so that the amount of filling can be adjusted, and so that the filling can be replaced if necessary, or simply removed when the shell needs to be laundered. It is made of a sturdy fabric like canvas, twill, duck, or denim, preferably machine-washable cotton. It has double or triple-sewn seams, which will extend the life of the cushion and prevent leakage if a seam opens. A traditional zafu has evenly spaced pleats around the sides, and a smooth, pucker-free top and bottom.
You may be wondering about the pleated construction of these cushions, especially since there are cushions sometimes sold as zafus that don’t have any pleats. Simply stated, a zafu is a sewn cushion you sit on. An unpleated cushion, if used regularly, will eventually separate at the seams from the long-term stress of bearing your weight. Bed pillows, sofa cushions, and even rolled blankets can be pressed into service in a pinch, but none of these items are designed to hold your body weight for long periods, and all will show signs of wear and eventually disintegrate with this kind of use. A pleated zafu, on the other hand, is specially designed for use as a sitting cushion; the pleats allow the cushion to “give” with your weight, and the stuffing is thus automatically redistributed into the pleated spaces if you move about or shift your position, without placing undue stress on the seams.
A good zafu is firmly stuffed with a high-quality filling like cotton or buckwheat hulls (the dry triangular husks of buckwheat grains). Cotton-filled zafus are lighter and provide a great loft. However, as is the case with natural fibres, they compress and flatten over a long period of time. Buckwheat hulls shift slightly inside the cushion to conform to your body shape, and they provide a very comfortable, stable seat. While their initial loft is not as great as with cotton, they hold their shape better, and they don’t have cotton’s tendency to compress and flatten over time. The selection of filling for your zafu is largely a matter of personal preference. Whilst buckwheat-filled zafus retain their shape better and longer, they are also heavier than the cotton-filled ones. Both have a similar type of maintenance and should be properly dried out in the sun if exposed to moisture or water.
Zafus provide you with the much-needed support for the spine, thighs and tush, but by now you are probably also thinking about your poor aching knees and ankles, resting on the hard floor. This is where the zabuton is a lifesaver. A zabuton (literally, a “sitting futon”) is a large, flattish cushion that you place underneath your zafu, as shown above. The zabuton provides a thick, padded surface to cushion your ankles and knees and to insulate you from the floor or ground. You can also use zabutons simply as a yoga mat.
As with zafus, the dimensions may vary, but these cushions generally measure between 80 cm and 90 cm square (occasionally you’ll see a rectangular zabuton). The loft is usually between 8 and 10 cm.
A well-made zabuton is traditionally stuffed with thick cotton batting mix and has a removable cover that can be laundered. Some zabutons are tufted, others are not; the tufting keeps the batting from shifting inside the cushion. Cotton batting is the norm, but you can also find zabutons stuffed with polyester fiberfill, although these are much more expensive and not made of natural fibres. A zabuton with polyester fiberfill will not shift and separate as much as cotton batting (if they are not tufted).Zafus and zabutons are often available in matching sets, and this is certainly the most economical way to purchase them. So, take your pick from our range of zabutons and enjoy your practice.
The pain relief from the use of the acupressure mat is a result of the body’s reaction, production of its natural pain killers (endorphins) due to the pressure from the spikes. These are the same “feel-good” chemicals released during exercise. Endorphins give pain relief and a sense of physical well-being. Oxytocin is also released during the use of the made and produces a feeling of relaxation and general feel good, allowing you to wind down and find it easier to fall asleep. Lie with your back on it for a few minutes every day or use it on your feet by standing on it or put your feet on it while sitting upright. So, use our acupressure spike mat to help you relax and wind down after a long day.
There are 2 major factors which advocate for the use of a personal mat versus a shared mat-hygiene and performance/comfort.
1. Better Hygiene and Peace of Mind
Yoga and Pilates mats absorb sweat, skin cells, dirt, and bacteria over time. While studios and gyms may clean their mats regularly, having your own mat ensures you know exactly how often it is cleaned and who has used it. A personal mat provides a more hygienic and comfortable practice environment, allowing you to focus fully on your workout.
2. Better Comfort, Support, and Performance
Not all mats are created equal. Studio mats are designed to suit a wide range of users, but your own mat can be chosen to match your specific needs for grip, cushioning, thickness, and stability. A quality personal mat helps improve balance, supports your joints, prevents slipping, and enhances your overall yoga or Pilates experience.
Your yoga mat is an important investment, both from the point of view of your practices as well as for your health. Your yoga mat needs to keep you stable in your poses, and it needs to be storable and portable, yet comfy and cushy. Ideally, yoga mats should reflect the principles of yoga, so make sure that they have been made with health and safety considerations in mind. The best yoga mats are non-toxic and eco-friendly, as what’s the point of doing yoga to become healthy in body and mind, yet use a mat that is damaging the environment? Some of the main features you look for when choosing a yoga mat are listed below:
- comfortable!
- light and easy to carry around
- non-slip
- environmentally safe
- durable and easy to care for.
Asoka Yoga stores a range of eco-friendly yoga mats that come out on top on the above criteria. So, get one now and enjoy your practice.
To know more about how these factors affect the performance of your yoga mat and therefore yours, read on.
What factors impact the performance of a yoga or pilates mat?
Key features that impact the performance of a yoga mat
Thickness
The thickness of your mat has a lot to do with how comfortable it is — too thin, your knee may get banged up during crescent lunge. The tradeoff is that thick mats can make it harder for you to feel a strong connection to the floor, making you more wobbly in tree pose, for example.
Basic buying guide: consider how much room you have to stow your mat, how important portability is, and where your sweet spot is on comfort versus being able to feel a direct connection to the floor or sturdiness versus portability.
Material
The material your mat is made of dictates its texture, stickiness, eco-friendliness and sponginess (how much it yields to pressure), and how it wears over time. Most standard mats are made of PVC, otherwise known as vinyl. Newer, more earth-friendly options include natural and recycled rubber, jute, and cotton.
Basic buying guidelines: if you’re allergic to latex, avoid mats made of natural rubber. If you want to stick with the tried-and-true sticky mat without consequences to the environment, choose a mat made of PVC. If you want a mat which is not only comfortable during practice but also eco-friendly, jute and cotton are the best. If you are used to practising yoga on the PVC mat, it will take some time for you to get used to practising your poses on jute and cotton mats. But practice makes one perfect
Texture and stickiness
The texture of your mat dictates how much traction it provides. Like stickiness, texture affects how much slipping and sliding you do. It provides physical barriers to sliding (whereas stickiness relies on suction), and because texture affects the way a mat feels, it’s also a component of overall comfort.
Basic buying guidelines: if you’re looking for a mat that prevents slipping and you’d like to avoid PVC mats (the traditional sticky mats), look for a rubber, jute or cotton mat that has a raised, tactile pattern. The added grip the raised texture provides can help you stay put no matter how sweaty or vigorous your practice gets.
If smoothness and highest stickiness are a higher priority to you than the eco-friendly nature of the mat, a PVC mat is the way to go. And if you relish stickiness but are curious about the newer, more earth-friendly options, experiment with a few before you decide “the one”. Some eco-friendly mats may surprise you with how much traction they provide, even though they don’t have the traditional “sticky” feel.
Eco-friendliness
As yogis, we hold dear the tenet of ahimsa, or non-violence. That makes practising on a mat that will ultimately end up clogging a landfill for decades to come troublesome. We cannot practice yoga to create a healthy balance between our mind and body yet choose a mat that is harmful to the planet.
Basic buying guide: If eco-friendliness is important to you, avoid mats made of PVC (the traditional sticky mat), which does not break down in landfills and is difficult and costly to recycle. Rubber, jute and cotton mats, while available in a range of thicknesses, tend to be thicker and slicker than PVC mats. You can get a mat that’s eco-friendly, has a thickness that meets your needs for comfort and portability, and has a texture (such as a raised geometric pattern) that prevents slippage.
Price range
Typically, a basic 3 cm thick, plain, solid-colour PVC sticky mat will be toward the low end of the price range. Eco-friendly mats tend to be toward the high end of the price range.
Asoka Yoga stores a range of eco-friendly yoga mats that satisfy even the most demanding criteria. So, get one now and enjoy your practice.
Choosing a yoga mat is about more than just grip, it’s about how you want to feel during your practice.
Synthetic sticky mats have become popular because they offer instant traction and cushioning. They can be practical, lightweight, and affordable, making them a common choice in studios and gyms around the world.
At Asoka Yoga, however, we believe that the materials you practise on matter. Natural materials such as cork, cotton, wool, and natural rubber provide a different experience, one that feels more grounded, breathable, and connected to nature.
Unlike synthetic materials, natural fibres are renewable, biodegradable, and free from many of the plastics and chemicals commonly found in conventional yoga mats. They tend to age beautifully, develop character over time, and offer a tactile connection that many practitioners find calming and supportive.
Natural materials also regulate temperature more effectively, feel comfortable against the skin, and align with a more mindful and sustainable lifestyle. For many yogis, choosing a natural mat is an extension of their practice, making choices that are better for both personal wellbeing and the environment.
While there is no single “right” yoga mat, we encourage practitioners to consider not only how a mat performs, but also what it is made from, how it was produced, and how it makes them feel each time they step onto it.
Your mat is the foundation of your practice. Choosing natural materials can help create a space that feels intentional, comfortable, and aligned with the values of mindful living.
Rudraksha is the seed of the Elaeocarpus ganitrus tree, which grows primarily in Nepal, India, and Indonesia. For centuries, these unique seeds have been used to create prayer beads, malas, bracelets, and jewellery that support meditation, mindfulness, and personal wellbeing.
The word “Rudraksha” comes from Sanskrit and is traditionally translated as “the tears of Rudra” (another name for Shiva). While its roots are deeply connected to ancient yogic traditions, today Rudraksha is appreciated by people around the world for its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and connection to mindful living.
Each Rudraksha seed is unique, featuring natural grooves or facets on its surface. These facets, known as “mukhis,” vary from bead to bead and contribute to the distinctive appearance of every Rudraksha.
Many people choose to wear Rudraksha malas or bracelets as a reminder to stay grounded, present, and connected to their personal intentions. Whether used during meditation, yoga, breathwork, or everyday life, Rudraksha serves as a meaningful symbol of mindfulness and self-awareness.
At Asoka Yoga, we value Rudraksha for its natural origins, timeless beauty, and long-standing association with meditation and conscious living.
What Are the Benefits of Wearing Rudraksha?
For centuries, Rudraksha beads have been worn by meditators, yogis, and spiritual seekers as symbols of mindfulness, intention, and personal growth. While individual experiences vary, many people find that wearing Rudraksha serves as a meaningful reminder to stay present, grounded, and connected to their daily practice.
A Symbol of Mindfulness
Many wearers use Rudraksha as a physical reminder to slow down, breathe deeply, and return to the present moment throughout the day. Whether worn as a mala, bracelet, or necklace, the beads can help support a sense of calm and conscious awareness.
Supporting Meditation and Intention
Rudraksha beads have traditionally been used during meditation and mantra practice. The repetitive movement of the beads through the fingers can encourage focus, concentration, and a deeper sense of connection during meditation, breathwork, or quiet reflection.
A Connection to Tradition
Rudraksha has been valued for generations within yogic and spiritual traditions. Wearing Rudraksha allows many practitioners to feel connected to a rich heritage of mindfulness, self-inquiry, and personal development.
Natural Beauty and Meaning
Each Rudraksha bead is unique, with its own natural shape, texture, and pattern. Many people appreciate Rudraksha not only for its traditional significance but also for its organic beauty and connection to nature.
A Personal Experience
The significance and benefits of Rudraksha are often deeply personal. Some people wear it as a spiritual symbol, others as a meditation tool, and many simply as a meaningful reminder to live with greater awareness, balance, and intention.
At Asoka Yoga, we view Rudraksha as a beautiful natural seed that carries centuries of tradition while supporting a modern lifestyle centred around mindfulness, wellbeing, and conscious living.
Many people choose to perform a simple intention-setting ritual before wearing their Rudraksha beads for the first time. While not essential, this can be a meaningful way to connect with your beads and establish a personal purpose for wearing them.
A Simple Intention-Setting Ritual
Find a quiet space
Set aside a few moments where you can be free from distractions and fully present.
Cleanse your beads
Gently wipe or rinse your Rudraksha beads with clean water and allow them to dry naturally.
Pause and reflect
Hold the beads in your hands and take a few slow, mindful breaths. Consider what qualities or intentions you would like the beads to represent in your life, such as balance, focus, resilience, gratitude, or inner calm.
Set an intention
Silently repeat your intention or simply spend a few moments reflecting on what is important to you at this stage of your journey.
Wear your Rudraksha
Put on your beads and allow them to serve as a daily reminder of your intention and commitment to living with greater awareness and purpose.
Caring for Your Rudraksha
Over time, your Rudraksha beads may become a meaningful companion in your meditation, yoga, breathwork, or mindfulness practice. Many people enjoy taking a moment every so often to reconnect with their intention and appreciate the role the beads play in their daily routine.
There is no right or wrong way to wear Rudraksha. The most important aspect is the meaning you bring to it and the positive habits it helps you cultivate.
With a little care, your Rudraksha beads can remain beautiful and durable for many years. As a natural seed, Rudraksha benefits from occasional cleaning and maintenance to preserve its appearance and integrity.
Regular Cleaning
Gently wipe your Rudraksha beads with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust, oils, and everyday buildup. If needed, you may lightly rinse the beads with clean water and allow them to dry naturally in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
Avoid Prolonged Moisture
While occasional contact with water is generally fine, prolonged exposure to moisture may shorten the lifespan of natural beads. Remove your Rudraksha before swimming, bathing, or engaging in activities where it may remain wet for extended periods.
Keep Away from Harsh Chemicals
Avoid exposing your Rudraksha to perfumes, lotions, cleaning products, or other chemicals, as these may affect the natural surface of the beads over time.
Nourish the Beads Occasionally
To help maintain their natural appearance, you may occasionally apply a very small amount of natural oil, such as coconut oil or almond oil, to the beads using a soft cloth. Wipe away any excess oil and allow the beads to absorb it naturally.
Store with Care
When not wearing your Rudraksha, store it in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight and excessive heat. A small fabric pouch or jewellery box works well for protecting the beads.
Embrace Their Natural Character
Because Rudraksha is a natural seed, slight variations in colour, texture, and appearance are normal. Over time, your beads may develop a richer patina that reflects their use and unique journey with you.
With mindful care, your Rudraksha beads can remain a meaningful part of your daily practice for years to come.
There are no strict rules for wearing Rudraksha. The most important aspect is the intention, mindfulness, and personal meaning you bring to it. Many people find that the more consciously they engage with their Rudraksha, the more it becomes a meaningful part of their daily life.
Wear It with Intention
Rather than viewing Rudraksha as an accessory, consider it a reminder of the values you wish to cultivate, such as presence, balance, focus, gratitude, or compassion.
Use It as a Mindfulness Tool
Whenever you notice your Rudraksha during the day, take a moment to pause, breathe, and reconnect with the present moment. These small moments of awareness can help create a greater sense of calm and clarity.
Incorporate It into Your Practice
Many people choose to wear their Rudraksha during yoga, meditation, breathwork, journaling, or other wellness practices. Associating the beads with activities that support your wellbeing can strengthen their personal significance over time.
Treat It with Care
As a natural seed, Rudraksha benefits from gentle handling and regular care. Keeping your beads clean and storing them thoughtfully helps preserve their beauty and longevity.
A Japa Mala, often simply called a mala, is a strand of beads traditionally used as a tool for meditation, mindfulness, and focused intention. Similar to how a rosary or prayer beads are used in other traditions, a mala helps keep your attention anchored during a meditation or breathing practice.
Most malas consist of 108 beads, along with one larger bead often referred to as the “guru” or “marker” bead. The number 108 has held symbolic significance in various contemplative traditions for centuries, although malas can also be found in shorter lengths.
Today, many people use malas as a simple and effective mindfulness tool. As you move from one bead to the next, you can silently repeat a word, affirmation, intention, breath count, or phrase that supports your practice. The repetitive movement of the beads can help quiet mental distractions and encourage a deeper sense of focus and presence.
Malas can be made from a variety of natural materials, including Rudraksha seeds, wood, seeds, gemstones, or other natural elements. Each material offers its own unique appearance and character, allowing practitioners to choose a mala that resonates with them personally.
How to Use a Mala
- Hold the mala comfortably in your hand.
- Start at the bead next to the marker bead.
- Move one bead at a time as you repeat a breath, affirmation, intention, or meditation phrase.
- Continue around the mala until you return to the marker bead.
- Many practitioners pause at the marker bead rather than crossing over it, using it as a moment for reflection and gratitude.
Whether used during meditation, breathwork, yoga, or moments of quiet reflection, a mala can be a beautiful reminder to slow down, stay present, and cultivate greater awareness throughout your day.
A traditional japa mala is most commonly made with 108 beads, a number that has been used in meditation tools across many cultures for centuries. While there are many traditional interpretations of why 108 is significant, today it is best understood as a symbolic and practical structure that supports focused, mindful practice.
From a practical perspective, 108 beads provide a complete cycle for meditation or breath-based repetition. It is long enough to create a meaningful practice session, yet structured enough to help you stay focused and present without needing to count manually.
Symbolically, the number 108 has been regarded in various contemplative traditions as representing completeness, wholeness, and spiritual alignment. Over time, this has helped establish 108 as the standard length for malas used in meditation, intention-setting, and mantra repetition.
Beyond symbolism, the repetition of moving through 108 beads can help create rhythm and structure in practice. This allows the mind to settle, reduce distractions, and support deeper concentration.
The 109th bead on a mala is called the sumeru, bindu, stupa, or guru bead. Counting should always begin with a bead next to the sumeru. In the Hindu Vedic tradition, if more than one mala of repetitions is to be done, one changes directions when reaching the sumeru rather than crossing it.
Japa malas are made from a wide variety of natural materials, chosen for their texture, durability, and personal meaning to the wearer.
One of the most traditional materials is Rudraksha seed, valued for its natural, earthy appearance and commonly used in meditation malas. Another popular option is Tulsi wood, known for its light weight and smooth feel. Many malas are also made from sandalwood, which is appreciated for its natural fragrance and calming sensory quality during practice.
In addition to wood and seeds, malas can also be crafted from natural stone beads such as amethyst, rose quartz, or onyx. These are often chosen for their colour, aesthetic appeal, and the personal meaning people associate with them.
Today, modern malas may also include combinations of different natural materials, allowing for a balance of comfort, style, and durability.
Regardless of the material, the purpose of a japa mala remains the same: to provide a simple, tactile tool that supports focus, mindfulness, and repetition during meditation or breathwork practices.
A japa mala is a simple, practical tool designed to support focus during meditation, breathwork, or the repetition of a word, affirmation, or intention.
There is no single “correct” way to use a mala, but there are a few widely accepted methods that help create consistency and flow in your practice.
A Simple Way to Use Your Mala
Hold your mala comfortably in your hand and begin at the bead next to the larger marker bead. Move from one bead to the next as you repeat your chosen focus point, this could be your breath, a word, a phrase, or a personal intention.
Continue bead by bead until you return to the marker bead, which signals the completion of one full cycle.
Many people choose to pause at the marker bead rather than crossing over it, using it as a natural moment to pause, reflect, or begin another round if desired.
Key Principles
- Move at a steady, relaxed pace
- Stay present with each bead
- Use the mala as an anchor for attention, not a task to complete
- Allow your breath or intention to guide the rhythm
Creating Your Own Practice
Some practitioners prefer to use their right hand, others their left. Some hold the mala between thumb and finger, while others adapt the grip for comfort. What matters most is consistency, ease, and mindfulness.
Your mala is not about perfection, it is a supportive tool to help you slow down, focus, and return to the present moment.
Many people choose to perform a simple intention setting ritual before using their japa mala for the first time. This is not required, but it can be a meaningful way to connect with your mala and set a clear purpose for your practice.
A Simple Preparation Ritual
1. Find a quiet moment
Choose a calm space where you can be present and undisturbed.
2. Clean your mala gently
Wipe your beads with a soft, dry cloth. If needed, you can lightly rinse them with clean water and allow them to dry completely. Avoid harsh chemicals or soaking.
3. Set your intention
Hold your mala in your hands and take a few slow breaths. Reflect on how you intend to use it, this could be for mindfulness, focus, calm, gratitude, or personal growth.
4. Centre yourself
Sit quietly for a few moments. You may choose to repeat a simple word or affirmation, or just focus on your breath.
5. Begin your practice
When you feel ready, start using your mala in meditation or breathwork as a supportive tool for focus and presence.
A Personal Practice
There is no correct ritual or required method. The most important aspect is the meaning you bring to your mala and how it supports your personal practice over time. Many people find that the more consistently they use their mala, the more it becomes a grounding reminder to slow down and stay present.
A japa mala is a natural, handcrafted item, and with simple care it can remain beautiful and meaningful for many years.
Gentle everyday care
Most malas naturally stay clean through regular use. The natural contact with your hands during meditation or mindfulness practice is usually enough to keep the beads looking and feeling good over time.
Light cleaning when needed
If your mala becomes dusty or needs refreshing, gently wipe it with a soft, clean cloth. For a deeper clean, you can lightly use a damp cloth and then allow it to air dry completely before storing or wearing it again.
Store it with care
When not in use, keep your mala in a dry, safe place such as a pouch or box. This helps protect it from unnecessary wear and keeps the beads in good condition over time.
Handle with intention
Because malas are often used in mindful or meditative practice, many people choose to treat them with a sense of care and respect. Avoid rough handling or unnecessary strain on the cord to help extend its lifespan.
Natural character over time
Over time, your mala may develop subtle changes in texture or colour. This is a natural part of the material ageing and often adds to its unique character and personal meaning.
With simple care and mindful use, your japa mala can remain a lasting companion in your meditation and daily mindfulness practice.
A japa mala becomes more meaningful the more consistently and intentionally it is used. While there are no strict rules, many people find that treating their mala with care helps it remain a grounding and supportive part of their practice.
Use it with intention
Your mala is a tool for mindfulness, meditation, and reflection. Using it with awareness—rather than as a decorative item—helps build a stronger personal connection over time.
Keep it clean and safe
Store your mala in a clean, dry place when not in use, such as a pouch or small box. This helps protect the beads and cord from unnecessary wear.
Make it part of your routine
Many people use their mala during meditation, breathwork, journaling, or quiet reflection. Regular use helps reinforce focus and creates a sense of familiarity and grounding in your practice.
Handle with care
Because malas are often made from natural materials and thread, gentle handling will help extend their lifespan. Avoid unnecessary pulling or strain on the cord.
Allow it to be personal
There is no single correct way to use or relate to a mala. Some people wear it daily, others use it only during practice. What matters most is that it supports your own sense of calm, focus, and presence.
Over time, your mala may become a quiet reminder of your intentions and the moments you choose to slow down and reconnect with yourself.
“Om” (or “Aum”) is a simple sound often used in meditation, breathwork, and yoga practices around the world. It is considered one of the most well-known sounds used to help focus the mind and bring attention into the present moment.
Rather than being a word with a literal meaning, “Om” is often used as a sound vibration that helps anchor awareness. Many people find that softly chanting or silently repeating it creates a sense of calm, rhythm, and focus during meditation or mindful breathing.
Why is it used?
“Om” is commonly used at the beginning or end of a yoga or meditation practice as a way to:
- Help settle the mind
- Create a sense of grounding
- Support focused breathing
- Mark a transition into or out of practice
In modern practice
Today, “Om” is used across many styles of yoga and mindfulness practices worldwide. Some people chant it aloud, while others repeat it silently in their mind. There is no right or wrong way to use it.
For many practitioners, it simply serves as a reminder to slow down, breathe, and return to awareness.
A personal experience
The experience of “Om” is different for everyone. Some find it calming, others use it as a focus tool, and many simply appreciate it as part of their yoga or meditation routine.
At Asoka Yoga, we see it as a simple sound that supports presence, awareness, and intentional living.
Try this! To get the om symbol on your computer screen, open MS Word and type in backslash ( \ ) in Wingdings font. You will type in om!
Yoga straps are simple, versatile tools designed to support your movement, improve accessibility in poses, and help you build confidence in your practice.
Improve reach and accessibility
One of the main benefits of a yoga strap is that it helps bridge the gap between where your body is and where a pose is asking you to go. This is especially helpful in stretches where flexibility or range of motion is still developing.
Support better alignment
A strap can help you maintain proper alignment by allowing you to hold a position without straining or overreaching. This encourages safer, more controlled movement and reduces unnecessary tension in the body.
Deepen stretches gradually
Instead of forcing flexibility, a strap allows you to ease into stretches over time. This makes it easier to stay in poses longer and work progressively, at your own pace.
Helpful for all levels
While yoga straps are often introduced to beginners, they are widely used by experienced practitioners as well. They offer support in a variety of poses, especially where holding or connecting different parts of the body is challenging.
Versatile in practice
Yoga straps can be used in many different ways, such as:
- Supporting seated forward folds
- Assisting shoulder and chest opening
- Helping maintain leg extensions in supine poses
- Supporting balance and stability in standing poses
A tool, not a limitation
Using a strap is not about restriction, it’s about making your practice more accessible, sustainable, and comfortable. It allows you to focus on breath, awareness, and proper form rather than strain.
Over time, yoga straps can help you build strength, mobility, and confidence in a steady and supportive way.
J
Su Jok is a self-care technique that involves stimulating specific points on the hands and feet using gentle pressure, massage tools, seeds, or small rounded objects.
The approach is based on the idea that the hands and feet can be used as a reflection of the whole body, making them a convenient focus area for relaxation and mindful body awareness.
How it is used
Su Jok techniques typically involve applying gentle pressure or massage to different areas of the fingers and toes. This can be done using your hands, a small tool, or natural objects such as seeds or smooth stones.
Why people use Su Jok
Many people use Su Jok as part of their wellness or relaxation routine to:
- Support relaxation and stress relief
- Increase body awareness
- Encourage circulation through gentle stimulation
- Complement practices such as yoga, breathwork, or meditation
A simple, accessible practice
One of the key benefits of Su Jok is its simplicity. It can be practiced almost anywhere, without special equipment or training, making it an easy addition to a daily self-care routine.
A complementary wellness tool
Su Jok is not a replacement for medical care, but rather a gentle wellness practice that some people use alongside other mindful living tools such as yoga, meditation, and breathwork.
At Asoka Yoga, we see Su Jok as part of a broader toolkit for slowing down, reconnecting with the body, and supporting everyday wellbeing.
A Su Jok ring is a simple self-massage tool designed to gently stimulate the fingers or toes through rolling pressure.
Basic use
Hold the ring between your fingers and gently roll it up and down each finger or toe. Adjust the speed and pressure based on your comfort level. The sensation should feel stimulating but not painful.
How to incorporate it into your routine
Many people use the Su Jok ring for a few minutes at a time as part of a daily self-care practice. It can be used:
- During moments of stress or tension
- As part of a morning or evening wind down routine
- Alongside breathing exercises or meditation
- While taking short breaks during the day
What to expect
As you roll the ring, you may notice a warming or tingling sensation. This is a normal response to gentle stimulation and massage of the skin and soft tissue.
A simple wellness tool
The Su Jok ring is not a medical device, but a supportive tool that encourages relaxation, awareness, and connection with your body through touch.
At Asoka Yoga, we see it as a small but effective way to bring mindful attention into your hands, feet, and everyday moments.