19 Best Yoga Bolsters & Pillows For Your Practice (2023) + Buying Guide
The right assistance tools can make your yoga experience more fruitful and rejuvenating.
Ashton AugustRYT-200
Expertise: Yoga
Experience: 8 years
Ashton August is a distinguished yoga instructor with over 7 years of teaching experience. She is the founder of the leading wellness website YouAligned, and YA Classes, an online yoga and fitness platform. She offers live and virtual yoga ... more
Aditi Naskar Diploma In Health & Wellness
Expertise: Health & Wellness
Experience: 5 years
Aditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She i... more
Expertise: Fitness & Lifestyle
Experience: 3 years
Rajeshwari is a dedicated fitness and lifestyle enthusiast, deeply committed to enhancing our readers’ well-being and vitality. She has a master’s degree in Journalism & Mass Communication fro... more
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While doing yoga, sometimes all you need is a little body support and it makes all the difference. Use dense yoga bolsters, the next time you do an intense asana. Did you know that the best yoga bolsters give great body flexibility? But make sure to use it safely under the guidance of a yoga instructor. Want to buy one? Take a look at the list of yoga bolsters we have compiled for you. Scroll down to know more.
In This Article
19 Best Yoga Bolsters And Pillows Of 2023
Best Flexible Design:Everlasting Comfort Bolster Pillow
Image: Everlasting Comfort The Everlasting Comfort Bolster Pillow comprises a 100% pure, high-quality memory foam cushion that offers your body soft but firm support. This half-moon-shaped pillow keeps your spine aligned to reduce back pain and pressure, promotes blood circulation to relax your muscles, and cradles your neck for tension relief. This tube pillow also reduces discomfort associated with sciatica, restless leg syndrome, and joint pain. Reviewers love this bolster pillow as it comes with a soft, breathable pillow cover that promotes fresh air circulation and releases heat build-up for maximum comfort. The cover is also easy to clean and dry.
Specifications
Dimension: 20.25 x 7.75 x 4 inches
Weight: 1.5 lbs
Pros- Machine-washable cover
- Breathable
- Ideal size
- Easy to maneuver
- Soft
- Latex-free
Cons
None
Best In Durability:YogaAccessories Supportive Rectangular Cotton Yoga Bolster
Image: Peace Yoga This 100% cotton bolster from YogaAccessories is firm and supportive, yet soft and supple. It offers optimal support for restorative and prenatal yogas. You can place this bolster lengthwise along your back during Shavasana for deep relaxation and opening the heart chakra. The handles on either side of the bolster facilitate easy portability.
Specifications
- Dimension: 24 x 12 x 6 inches
- Weight: 6 lbs
Pros
- Sturdy
- Comes with a removable cover
- Machine washable
- Comfortable to use
- Durable
- Available in various colors and shapes
Cons
- Unpleasant smell
Best Multi-Purpose:Hugger Mugger Yoga Bolster
Image: Hugger Mugger This multi-purpose yoga bolster from Hugger Mugger is made with upholstery-grade fabrics. It has a flat top and bottom for stability. The bolster’s exceptional firmness helps maintain structural integrity. It is equipped with a foam core and cotton batting. You can use it to support the torso in reclining poses, twists, child’s pose, and seated forward bends. Many reviewers have noted that the rectangular bolster helps elevate the hips in seated and complex yoga poses. Click on the video to learn more about the Hugger Mugger Yoga Bolster based on a reviewer’s experience with it.
Specifications
- Dimension: 25 x 11 x 5 inches
- Weight: 5 lbs
Pros
- Sturdy
- Firm
- Convenient handles
- Durable
- Available in various colors
Cons
- Stiff
Everlasting Comfort Bolster Pillow Best Flexible Design | YogaAccessories Supportive Rectangular Cotton Yoga Bolster Best In Durability | Hugger Mugger Yoga Bolster Best Multi-Purpose | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 720 Grams | - | - |
| Dimensions | 9.49 x 8.58 x 7.6 inches | - | - |
| Material | Memory Foam | Cotton | - |
| Shape | Cylindrical | - | - |
| Fill Material | Memory Foam | - | - |
| Color | White | Black | - |
| Outer Material | - | Cotton | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | - | 1,680 | 1,082 |
| Price | $37.99 | $39.29 | $88.95 |
Best For Meditation:Gaiam Yoga Bolster
Image: Gaiam The Gaiam Yoga Bolster slides easily under the neck, knees, and bottom, providing comfortable cushioning to relax your body and mind during meditation and yoga practice. This bolster is filled with plush cotton batting for comfort, and the cover is made from soft microfiber that can be easily removed for cleaning. With its convenient handle, this bolster is also easy to transport, making it a versatile relaxation aid that you can take with you wherever you go. Whether used for yin yoga, relieving lower back tension, or simply creating a comfortable seating option, the Gaiam Yoga Bolster offers stress relief and relaxation. Take a look at the honest in depth review for a better understanding of the product.
Specifications
- Dimension: 25 x 12 x 5 inches
- Weight: 4 lbs
Pros
- Ultra-soft cushioning
- Sturdy handles
- Easy to clean
- Machine washable
Cons
- Gets lumpy
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 3,669 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
Best Ergonomic Design:Ajna Yoga Bolster
Image: Ajna The Ajna Yoga Bolster is suitable for yoga, meditation, and gentle stretching. It is made of recycled fibers that provide great support to the spine while performing deep stretches. This bolster also helps alleviate pressure on joints, provides lumbar relief, supports stretches, and offers total relaxation. The Dual-Core Technology prevents the bolster from getting lumpy. According to the direct feedback received from its users on online forums, this bolster is also suitable for restorative, yin, and prenatal yogas.
Specifications
- Dimension: 25.6 x 10.2 x 5.9 inches
- Weight: 4.85 lbs
Pros
- Durable
- Ergonomic design
- Lightweight
- Eco-friendly
- Easy to wash
- Easy to carry
- Available in various colors
Cons
None
Pro TipTo wash the yoga bolster, take off its cover and wash it separately. Soak the bolster in a tub of cool water and some mild dish soap. Rinse it with water and let it air dry.
Best Breathable:Gayo Yoga Bolster
Image: Gayo The Gayo Yoga Bolster is made with 100% certified organic cotton. It supports difficult poses during injury, lack of flexibility, or pregnancy. This breathable and moisture-wicking pillow is suitable for restorative yoga and deep-breathing exercises, promoting breath awareness and deep personal transformation. It comes with a handy travel bag and an extra bolster cover. It is great for yin yoga, relieving lower back tension, and alleviating stress.
Specifications
- Dimension: 18 x 11 x 6.5 inches
- Weight: 4 lbs
Pros
- Eco-friendly
- Easy to wash
- Travel-friendly
- Comes with an extra cover
- Lightweight
Cons
- Unpleasant smell
Best Eco-Friendly:Lotuscrafts Yoga Bolster
The Lotuscrafts Yoga Bolster is eco-friendly and easy to wash. You can use it for backward bends, leg support, and back strain while lying down. It is made of high-quality organic cotton filling and husks. This yoga bolster is ideal for yin and restorative yoga and pilates. You can also use it as a neck roll cushion.
Specifications
- Dimension: 25 x 9 x 9 inches
- Weight: 9.2lbs
Pros
- Lightweight
- Eco-friendly
- Easy to carry
- Easy to wash
Cons
- Small size
Best Skin-Friendly:Retrospec Sequoia Yoga Bolster
Image: Retrospec The Retrospec Sequoia Yoga Bolster is made with 100% organic cotton filling and comes with a removable cotton cover. The natural cotton filling is skin-friendly and does not release harmful microplastics into the environment upon washing. Many reviews indicate that the bolster can can make relaxing easier during meditation, help alleviate muscle soreness, and improve spine health. It is machine-washable and supported with handles for easy transportation.
Specifications
- Dimension: 24 x 12 x 16 inches
- Weight: 8.65 lbs
Pros
- Durable
- Sturdy handles
- Skin-friendly
Cons
- Heavy
Best For Extra Support:Leewadee Yoga Bolster
Image: Leewadee The Leewadee Yoga Bolster is made with breathable, natural plant materials and is stuffed with natural kapok. Many reviewers are obsessed with the bolster’s soft and breathable design that effectively supports the lower back, knees, legs, and feet for meditation and yoga practice. The double seam enhances the strength and sturdiness of this bolster, while the attractive Thai design makes it look trendy.
Specifications
- Dimension: 21.5 x 6 x 6 inches
- Weight: 1.47 lbs
Pros
- Durable
- Sturdy
- Double seam for extra support
Cons
- Small size
Quick TipTo get rid of dust or dirt sitting on your pillow, vacuum it on both sides.
Best Machine Washable:Bean Products Yoga Bolster
This yoga bolster from Bean Products is made of 100% cotton, hemp, and vinyl that provide maximum comfort. It supports several high-impact activities and restorative yoga. Reviewers online confirm that this bolster helps enhance flexibility, body alignment, and stability. This product features a zipper lock and comes in an easy-to-remove, machine-washable pillowcase.
Specifications
- Dimension: 25 x 12 x 6 inches
- Weight: 4.5 lbs
Pros
- Machine washable
- 1-year warranty
- Durable
- Eco-friendly
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Small size
Best With Handles:Manduka Enlight Rectangular Yoga Bolster
Image: Manduka The Manduka Enlight Yoga Bolster is made of 30% recycled fiber-fill that offers superior support. The eQua microfiber cover offers a plush, suede-like feel to keep you warm and comfortable. The hidden zipper imparts a sleek look. This bolster features easy-carrying handles.
Specifications
- Dimension: 28 x 11.75 x 5 inches
- Weight: 2.5 lbs
Pros
- Travel-friendly
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Easy to carry
- Easy to wash
Cons
None
Node Fitness Yoga Bolster
Image: Node This yoga bolster from Node Fitness is made with finely crafted, GOTS certified, 100% organic cotton. It is free of chemicals, solvents, and GMOs. This yoga bolster is perfect for restorative yoga, meditation, and relaxation. Reviews online indicate that its ergonomic design offers extra-firm support and improves posture without any discomfort.
Specifications
- Dimension: 25 x 12 x 6 inches
- Weight: 2.5 lbs
Pros
- Machine washable cover
- Eco-friendly
- Non-GMO
- Ergonomic design
- Durable
Cons
None
The ForPro Full Round Bolster is made of high-density foam and vinyl. It relieves strain from the lower back during massage therapy and provides comfort during stretching. This yoga bolster conforms to the body’s natural curves and supports your vertebrae and back. It can be placed under your knees, neck, and ankles for better relaxation.
Specifications
- Dimension: 26 x 26 inches
- Weight: 1 lb
Pros
- Durable
- Oil- and stain-resistant
- Easy to wash
- Value for money
Cons
- Lumpy
This bolster is filled with buckwheat hulls that provide extra firmness. It helps relieve stress and strain from the hip joints, knees, and ankles. This bolster also helps maintain a proper posture. It reduces the risk of numb limbs when meditating for long periods. Many reviewers have noticed that the product can also double as a yoga block during stretching or posing. It features a cotton cover and protective zip closure. Whether you need support for hip opening, neck and shoulder release, or various gentle yoga poses, this Bolster is a valuable addition to your yoga sessions.
Specifications
- Dimension: 13 X 13 inches
- Weight: 4.4 lbs
Pros
- Eco-friendly
- Machine washable
- 1-year warranty
- Travel-friendly
- Available in various colors
Cons
- Expensive
The Brentwood Home Crystal Cove Yoga Bolster is made with certified organic cotton. It is suitable for restorative yoga, meditation, and other workouts. This yoga bolster provides complete back support, and the inner cotton liner holds the hulls. The exterior is made of soft stretch-knit with elegant embroidery. This bolster comes with box-stitched carry handles and a washable cover.
Specifications
- Dimension: 25 x 11 x 6 inches
- Weight: 12 lbs
Pros
- Easy to wash
- Removable outer cover
- Sturdy handle
- Durable
Cons
None
This rectangular yoga bolster is made with 100% cotton and best suited for restorative yoga. It comes with a removable and washable cover and easy-grip handles. You can add or remove batting through the zippered opening. This bolster provides extra support and comfort for various yoga poses.
Specifications
- Dimension: 24 x 12 x 6 inches
- Weight: 6 lbs
Pros
- Comes with a removable cover
- Machine washable
- Suitable for restorative yoga
- Available in 8 colors
Cons
- Not durable
Florensi Premium Velvet Bolster
Image: Florensi The Florensi Premium Velvet Bolster is filled with extra firm and eco-friendly stuffing that provides great support for all yoga poses and practices. You can use it for yin, prenatal, and restorative yogas. This bolster helps boost blood circulation and offer pain relief therapy. The premium velvet cover is smooth, durable, and machine washable. This product is equipped with a strong handle that enables easy transportation.
Specifications
- Dimension: 26 x 11 x 5.5 inches
- Weight: 2.64 lbs
Pros
- Sturdy
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Portable
- Machine washable cover
Cons
None
This yoga bolster comes with three layers of sponge pillow core suitable for various yoga postures. It is comfortable to use and supports meditation, back extension, and pose adjustment. The removable pillow case is easy to clean. This yoga bolster features an easy-to-carry fitting handle and an invisible zipper that does not hurt your skin. It relieves stress and is ideal for yin and prenatal yoga practice. These yoga accessories are not only helpful in providing support but also serve as mindfulness aids during your practice.
Specifications
- Dimension: 26 x 10.2 x 5.9 inches
- Weight: 3.75 lbs
Pros
- Removable pillow cover
- Sturdy handle
- Invisible zipper
- Machine washable
Cons
None
Seat Of Your Soul Yoga Bolster
Image: Seat Of Your Soul The Seat Of Your Soul Yoga Bolster is filled with buckwheat hulls for better durability. The organic cotton wrapping case offers added comfort. The ergonomic design aligns your spine and eases strain, making yoga poses easier to achieve. The tight double-stitching makes the bolster firm and sturdy. The outer cover is machine washable and made of GOTS-certified soft cotton fabric. As per reviews, the adjustable wrap-around zipper helps customize the cushion for a perfect fit. These can be used in yoga therapy sessions to enhance relaxation and promote proper alignment.
Specifications
- Dimension: 28 x 9 x 5 inches
- Weight: 10.5 lbs
Pros
- Sturdy
- Durable
- Machine washable
- Value for money
- Available in 4 sizes and 10 colors
Cons
None
Let’s find out the benefits of yoga bolsters and pillows in the following section.
Benefits Of Yoga Bolsters And Pillows
- They help support your body while practicing advanced yoga postures.
- They are beneficial for beginners and people with limited mobility.
- They align the spine properly, prevent back injury, and improve flexibility.
- They can be used for restorative postures. A bolster placed under your knees, back, or neck alleviates tension and stress. This, in turn, deeply relaxes your entire body.
- They boost blood flow when placed under the spine, chest, or shoulders.
- They alleviate swelling and inflammation by relaxing the nerves and muscles.
- They improve metabolism and stimulate the digestive system when used in poses that involve folding or twisting the abdomen.
Distinguished yoga instructor Ashton August, states, “As a yoga instructor, yoga bolsters are one of my favorite yoga props for the variety of ways that they can benefit your practice. It’s also important to remember that yoga props are not a crutch – they are tools that enhance your practice, regardless of your experience level.”
But how does one use a yoga bolster or pillow? Scroll down for your answer.
How To Use Yoga Bolster To Get Good Results
- To support backbends, sit on a mat and place the bolster on the floor behind you. Push yourself back with your hands until you are resting the middle of your back on the bolster. Raise your arms towards the sides until they rest on the floor just above your bolster.
- To perform supported child poses, place the bolster in between your knees and kneel on the mat. Stretch your hands forward slowly until your entire body relaxes on the bolster.
- Elevating your legs against a wall can help boost blood circulation to the heart and the brain. Lay back and place your bolster underneath your bottom. Extend your legs and rest them against the wall.
Yoga bolsters are available in a wide range of shapes and sizes.
Different Types Of Yoga Bolsters
- Standard Yoga Bolsters: Standard yoga bolsters are the most versatile. Their flat rectangular design provides good elevation to maintain the body’s curvature. You can use them for seated forward bends. They can also provide solid support in meditation postures.
- Round Yoga Bolsters: These are larger, heavier, and better suited for advanced yoga practice and sitting postures. They offer extra support and comfort when placed under the knees.
- Pranayama Bolsters: These lean bolsters, specifically designed for pranayama practice, are a variation of the standard bolsters. They are smaller and act as a great cushion for the knees. In addition to providing comfort to the knees, they also help relax the body and offer spinal support, ensuring proper alignment during breathing exercises.
- Meditation Pillows: These are round cushions for sitting during meditation. They help keep your back straight while elevating your hips. A few of these cushions are also available in square or V shapes.
If you do not have hands-on experience in purchasing yoga bolsters, here’s what you should consider before going to the store for one!
How To Choose The Best Yoga Bolster
- Size and Shape
One of the first things you should consider before choosing a yoga bolster is what size and shape you would like your bolster to be. Rectangular bolsters are great for front line twist, supported shoulder stand, and supta virasana. Round yoga bolsters support natural arch and are perfect for the fish pose, hero pose, and savasana. Also, keep in mind your height and weight when looking for a yoga bolster.
- Materials
Polyester and foam are lightweight fabrics commonly used in yoga bolsters. You can go for eco-friendly or sustainable materials, like organic cotton and buckwheat hulls. An organic yoga bolster is not only pro-environment but also good for your skin and body.
- Weight
The weight and filling material of the bolster are important factors to consider. Choose a high-density foam or cotton batting interior for utmost firmness and comfort. You can also opt for bolsters with kapok and buckwheat fillings or a synthetic fiberfill.
- Firmness
Your yoga bolster should be firm enough to offer support in different poses and keep you stable. Choose a bolster that provides soft yet firm cushioning and keeps you comfortable.
The Bottom Line
Performing yoga regularly keeps your body fit and helps you unwind after a long and stressful day. But sometimes, only a yoga mat is not enough to relax the body and perform the asanas. In such cases, the best yoga bolsters and pillows would be of great help. They are ideal for alleviating stress and tension, boosting blood flow, and relaxing the muscles and nerves. The yoga bolsters listed above are ideal for prenatal yogas and restorative yogas. Opt for the Everlasting Comfort Bolster Pillow for a multifunctional design and premium memory foam support. The Hugger Mugger Yoga Bolster offers a firm structure, while the Gaiam Yoga Bolster is made of cotton for comfort and comes with a soft microfiber cover. In addition, these products aid in easing out the yoga poses. However, steer clear from the yoga bolsters that are not durable as they cannot stand long.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a yoga bolster used for?
It is a yoga prop similar to body pillows, which support your anatomy during various yoga asanas and help to stretch, relax, and open the body during practice.
How heavy should a yoga bolster be?
A typical yoga bolster may be around 7-8lbs for the perfect support.
Is round or rectangular yoga bolster better?
Rectangular bolsters offer better support areas and are more secure, while rounded ones offer more height, which may or may not be useful for you.
Can you sit on a yoga bolster?
Yes, you may sit on a bolster to better support your spine.
What is the standard size for a yoga bolster?
A traditional bolster is available in the size 24″ x 10″ x 5″.
Can you use a yoga bolster as a pillow?
Yes, a yoga bolster is extremely comfortable and may be used as a pillow for support.
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