Zafu
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A zafu (座蒲) is a round cushion, about 35 cm (14 inches) in diameter, and often about 20 cm (8 inches) high, unfluffed. Zafu are sewn from three pieces of heavy cloth, usually colored black: two round swatches of equal size for the top and the bottom of the cushion, and a long rectangle that is sewn into gathers in between. They are typically filled with either kapok or buckwheat hulls. Zen buddhist practitioners traditionally sit on a zafu when engaged in sitting meditation. The cushion raises the hips, making the entire range of cross-legged sitting positions more stable for the meditator.
The zafu is both a utilitarian accessory and a symbol of zazen practice. Before and after sitting on the zafu, zen practitioners perform a gassho bow to the cushion, to fellow practitioners, and to the teacher. In many practice places, there is a prescribed form for respectufully handling zafu while walking in the meditation hall, or zendo.
A zabuton (座布団) is a rectangular cushions, and 76 cm (30 inches) by 71 cm (28 inches) often used under a zafu cushion to provide comfort and support when engaged in sitting meditation. The outer cover is typically made of a heavy duty fabric has a zipper along one length so that it can be easily removed and washed. Inside the cover, the batting is enclosed in a natural cotton casing.
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