Quick Tip: Yoga bolsters offer support for better alignment and deeper stretches in practices like restorative and Yin yoga. They enhance comfort and effectiveness in various yoga poses and meditation.
Sometimes your mat just isn’t supportive enough. Do you ever wish you could just release a little bit more during yoga class? What if you could take pressure off your low back or add some more height and comfort to your favorite asanas?
A yoga pillow or bolster is the ultimate support for a regular yoga practice, and one of my favorite yoga accessories. Bolsters help open up the heart in restorative poses. They can be used as a cushion for your tailbone or knees.
They can add height that improves stretching and helps you relax into specific asanas. As a bonus, they make excellent meditation pillows or cushions if you are staying seated for a long period of time.
So here are our best picks, plus our tips to help you choose the right one for you.
What is a Yoga Bolster?
Yoga bolsters are firm pillows that come in a range of sizes and shapes. They can be rectangular, round, thick, or thin, and made of a variety of materials (the best are reviewed below).
You will find bolsters commonly used in Yin yoga and restorative yoga classes. They are common props in studios thanks to the extra support and cushion they provide for beginners, pregnant yogis, or yogis with joint, back or knee pain.
What’s the Best Yoga Bolster? Quick Picks
Why Use a Yoga Bolster?
Yoga bolsters are feel-good props similar to body pillows, but firmer and typically rectangular. They take the strain off the body by adding height and/or support in restorative yoga poses.
If you are seeking a cozy, rejuvenating yoga session, these top-rated yoga pillows are the most popular among yoga instructors and studios. We reviewed them to help you find the best yoga bolster for taking a deep breath and getting the release you crave.
Top 8 Yoga Bolsters Comparison Chart
The Best Yoga Bolsters Reviewed
Firm back support, silky soft removable cover, and oh so cozy? This rectangular yoga bolster from Manduka is everything you could want in a yoga accessory. It is rectangular shaped to provide support along the spine or head while also saving space in storage.
The fabric is absorbent, smooth, and easy to remove for washing. The core is 30% recycled polyester and the perfect amount of firmness for support and comfortable medium cushioning – not too hard, but not too squishy and pillowy either.
Manduka is highly regarded in the yoga community for its super high quality products and dedication to sustainability. These bolsters last forever and are so easy to clean. Simply pull off the microfiber cover, machine wash cold, and hang it to dry.
The bolster core is absorbent yet water-resistant and thoroughly protected from sweat by the thick, durable cover. The well-stitched handle makes it easy to move around and transport to/from classes.
- Soft microfiber cover is removable and washable.
- Perfect size for most body types (28” x 11.75” x 5”).
- Helps relieve back pain.
- Excellent for lifting the pelvis during meditation.
- Lightweight for transport.
- Rectangular size is modular and easy to store.
- Perfect for restorative yoga or back pain relief
- It does compress a little bit under pressure (medium firmness).
SPECS
- Type: Rectangular Yoga Bolster
- Size: 28” x 11.75” x 5”
- Weight: 2.5 lbs.
- Material: Micro-fiber
- Filling: 30% recycled fiber-fill
If you’d rather proudly display your yoga bolster instead of stashing it away with old mats, the Brentwood Home Crystal Cove bolster is decorative and luxurious. The certified organic cotton lining and buckwheat fill are ultra-sustainable and non-toxic.
You can even open the organic liner to remove buckwheat (customize the firmness) or replace the fill after a few years. The elaborately stitched outer cover is removable and washable for easy clean up.
Every detail of this bolster is thoughtfully designed. The shell-like patterned stitching is soft and stunning, making this pillow not only functional for yoga but also as home decor. The interior is 100% sustainable buckwheat fill that is sturdy, firm, and durable.
This unique fill makes the Brentwood Home yoga pillow denser and heavier (12 lbs) than other bolsters. The carrying handle is extra tough, double stitched, and embroidered with lovely tree emblems.
- 100% natural materials.
- Customizable firmness (can add or remove buckwheat hull filling).
- Organic inner liner.
- Beautiful stitching and design.
- Can be used for decor.
- Extremely sturdy.
- Does not compress when pressure is applied (very firm).
- Excellent support for meditation or yin yoga.
- Best for home use; may be too heavy to transport to/from classes.
- Higher price point.
SPECS
- Type: Rectangular Yoga Bolster
- Size: 25 x 11 x 6 inches
- Weight: 12 lbs.
- Material: Micro-fiber
- Filling: Natural buckwheat fill
Simian’s more affordable bolster is available at a great price point and very functional design. The bolster is rectangular and ergonomic for chest opening, back support, or knee supportive poses.
It has a synthetic fill and removable cover. The fabric is absorbent microfiber to keep you dry and sweat-free. It is machine-washable and very comfortable to sit or lay on.
Despite the cheaper price point, the Simian does not compress or squish down beneath your body weight. It is a travel-friendly size yet still great for studio use. There is a double-sewn handle and hidden zipper to make it easy to transport.
- Ergonomic shape is lovely for back or chest opening poses.
- 4 color options.
- Very firm (does not compress or squish down).
- Soft outer texture.
- Easily removable and washable cover.
- Great size and weight for travel (27.6” x 9.8” x 4.5”).
- May be too small for some yogis.
- Synthetic materials.
- Microfiber cover may be sweaty for some people.
SPECS
- Type: Rectangular Yoga Bolster
- Size: 27.56 x 9.84 x 5.51 inches
- Weight: 12 lbs.
- Material: Suede cover
- Filling: 35D PU fill
A rounded bolster is the most versatile of yoga cushions because it can be used as a roller, under-spine support, or shoulder support. This bolster is filled with cotton batting and a super stable center to keep you grounded.
It has a microfiber cover that is machine washable, as well as a sturdy carrying handle. At about 5 lbs, it’s easy to transport to and from the studio or keep as a cozy support at home.
- Super comfortable and sturdy without being too hard (medium firmness).
- Removable and washable cover.
- Soft microfiber surface.
- Lightweight and great for travel.
- Only ways about 5 lbs.
- Rounded shape may compress more under heavier body weight.
- Cotton fill may absorb scents or moisture.
SPECS
- Type: Round Yoga Bolster
- Size: 25.5″L x 9″
- Weight: 5 lbs.
- Material: Cotton
- Filling: Cotton batting
Hugger Mugger doesn’t ever disappoint with their solid, high-rated, made-in-the-USA yoga gear. This bolster is no different! It comes in 7 different colors, all with upholstery-grade super comfortable fabrics. The pillow has a firm foam core, cotton batting, and a cotton cover. It is a fairly standard size (25” x 11” x 5”) and lightweight (5 lbs).
I especially love that this bolster is so thick and firm beneath you. It is not like a memory-foam or cushiony pillow; it provides real support and extra firmness. The only downside is that the cover is difficult to remove and replace for washing.
- Very solid and thick bolster (extra firmness).
- Ultra supportive.
- 100% cotton and foam .
- Soft cotton cover.
- Made in the USA.
- Multiple color options.
- Rectangular shape is ideal for sitting and laying positions.
- Great size for most people.
- Soft surface.
- Very durable and lasts a long time.
- Cover may shrink with washing.
- Difficult to remove and replace cover for washing.
- May have chemical smell.
SPECS
- Type: Rectangular Yoga Bolster
- Size: 25 x 12 x 6 inches
- Weight: 4.4 lbs.
Bean Products is unique in that they let you choose a hemp, regular cotton, or organic cotton cover in a variety of colors. Their premium natural materials are non-toxic, super soft, and have no chemical smells. These bolsters are made in the USA by a family business using sustainably sourced materials.
The Bean Products yoga pillow is wider at the top and lower in height for deeper supported bends and gentler chest opening poses. The foam core is very firm, thick and sturdy. These bolsters are built to last and include a 1-year warranty.
- Made in USA with eco-friendly materials.
- Non-toxic and no chemical smell.
- Cover options of your choice (hemp, conventional cotton, or organic cotton).
- Studio-grade quality.
- Very firm and durable.
- 1 year warranty.
- Super supportive.
- Cover may be difficult to remove for washing.
- Lower height isn’t great for all body types.
- Higher price point.
SPECS
- Type: Rectangular Yoga Bolster
- Size: 24″x12″x6″
- Weight: 4.5 lbs.
- Material: Cotton
- Filling: Cotton batting
With a longer, thinner, oblong shape, the Waterglider bolster is the most comfortable for yin yoga or holding any poses for extended time periods. Somewhere between a body pillow and a yoga bolster, this bolster is made with 100% organic cotton batting that is firm yet somewhat cushiony.
They are stuffed very thick and still stiff enough for tremendous support. The narrow design of this bolster is very popular amongst pregnant yogis and large chested women.
- 100% organic cotton fill.
- Very comfortable for holding long poses.
- Not too hard (medium to hard firmness, slight cushion).
- Narrow, longer design great for pregnant and large-chested yogis.
- Removable and washable cover.
- Vibrant saffron orange color.
- High quality soft exterior.
- Elongated shape may be awkward for some body types.
- Too stiff for some individuals .
SPECS
- Type: Rectangular Yoga Bolster
- Size: 27 X 8 X 5
- Weight: 3.8 lbs.
- Material: Cotton
- Filling: Cotton batting
At 25” x 6” x 3”, this bolster is significantly smaller than standard size bolsters and much cheaper! It is a lovely as travel yoga pillow or for smaller body types. The 100% cotton cover and fill are eco-friendly and fluffy-firm. You can add and remove the batting to adjust the firmness.
I would rate this bolster at medium firmness with a little bit of give. The shape is oblong and thin, great for extending along the entire spine and melting into the floor. It is also excellent for restorative breathing exercises to open up the chest and provide comfortable support for the expanding lungs.
- 100% cotton fill.
- Super cozy for holding long poses.
- Medium Firmness (slightly fluffy).
- Adjustable firmness by removing or adding batting.
- Removable and washable cover.
- Small and lightweight for travel or smaller body types.
- Great for head, neck, or knees.
- Longer oblong style bolster best for spinal support.
- High quality canvas and well-sewn.
- Very affordable.
- Some products may be too lumpy for your liking.
- Too firm for some individuals.
SPECS
- Type: Rectangular Yoga Bolster
- Size: 25.25 x 6.5 x 6 inches
- Weight: 2.6 lbs.
- Material: Cotton
- Filling: Cotton batting
Benefits of a Yoga Bolster (aka Yoga Pillow)
Yoga bolsters enhance and support your practice with firm cushioning. They bring the floor closer to your body by adding height and improving stretches. Other benefits of a yoga bolster include:
- Chest and back opening
- Greater relaxation
- Softening of asanas
- Cushion for joints or bones against the floor
- Aid in opening up the body
- Improve posture
- Support and cushion the spine
- Add height to improve stretching
- Improve breathwork
- Improve circulation in legs and upper body when placed beneath you
- Add elevation to poses
- Can be used as a meditation cushion
How to Use a Yoga Bolster
If you’ve never used a yoga bolster in a studio before, it may be confusing to understand how to integrate a pillow into your traditional postures. Here are a few bolster-supported asanas to get you started and help you enjoy the added support of a yoga pillow.
Supported Seated Forward Fold Pose
- Sit on your knees and place the pillow long-ways on your lap
- Fold forward as if into child’s pose, resting your chest on the bolster
- Let your hips sink toward the floor
- Turn your head to one side and release the upper body
- Feel the stretch through your lower back and thighs
- Take deep breaths and relax
Supported Fish Back Bend Pose
- For an incredible chest opening and upper back relief, position a yoga bolster length-wise on your mat
- Place your hips and lumbar spine at the base of the bolster
- Lay back over the bolster, letting your arms drop to the side
- Relax and breathe your chest open, feeling the upper back release into the pillow
Supported Seated Meditation Pose
- For less stress on your low back during meditation, try placing a bolster sideways on your mat
- Place your sit bones on the bolster, crossing the legs and letting your knees fold off the bolster
- Keep your spine straight and feel the yoga pillow support your back through added elevation and raising up the floor
- Breathe and enter your meditation
How to Choose the Right Yoga Bolster
Bolsters come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, materials, and levels of firmness. It is important to ask yourself what you will be using the bolster for and what goals you hope to achieve. Do you want deeper stretches? More comfortable meditations? Longer yin yoga and restorative asanas? Support for pregnant yoga? Talking with a yoga instructor or trying a bolster in a studio class may help you dive deeper into which style of yoga bolsters is best for you.
Material and Filling
Most bolsters are made of cotton, foam, or synthetic fabrics. There are two main parts of a bolster: the core and the cover. Some also contain batting that cushions around the core, and a few bolsters contain only batting with no core.
Cotton batting can be more lumpy, but is also easy to remove or add to changing the firmness. A foam core may have more chemicals or smells, but provides more cushiony support. The newly popular buckwheat fill is an ideal happy medium for those seeking eco-friendly, non-toxic materials that are still very firm and adjustable (can be added or removed from the bolster).
Comfort and Firmness
Whether we’re talking about mattresses, pillows, or yoga bolsters, everyone has a different preference for comfort. Yoga bolsters can range from cushiony pillows to medium firmness to ultra dense thick support.
The type of filling you choose will drastically affect the firmness of your bolster. When in doubt, it is better to opt for something a little firmer than a bolster that isn’t firm enough. Too much “give” or “squishiness” will decrease the functionality and support of the bolster during your yoga practice.
Shape
The main bolster shapes are:
- Rectangular
- Oblong (thinner rectangular)
- Round
While rectangular bolsters are the most common, oblong bolsters are the best for spinal support. Round bolsters are excellent for behind the neck, low back, or knees. It is best to try out some bolsters from a friend or at a local yoga studio to figure out which shape best suits your body type and yoga goals.
Price
Quality yoga bolsters range from $30 to $100, depending on the materials, size, and brand name. Cheap yoga pillows tend to lose their shape and compress down under your body weight. They may also have a chemical or toxic smell due to the type of synthetic materials used. It’s best to opt for something that is eco-friendly, sustainable, and built to last.
How to Integrate a Yoga Bolster into Your Daily Schedule
Morning Stretch Routine
Kickstarting your day with a yoga bolster can create a positive vibe. Place the bolster lengthwise on your mat. Lie down with your spine aligned along the bolster and let your arms naturally rest by your sides. This gentle heart opening stretch can help you awaken and invigorate your body. Hold this pose for 5-10 minutes, focusing on deep breathing.
Midday Pause
If you feel yourself slouching at your desk, a brief stretch supported by a bolster can do wonders. Position the bolster under your knees while lying flat on your back. This setup aids in releasing tension in the lower back region. Stay in this position for 5 minutes, concentrating on your breath pattern. You’ll return to work feeling rejuvenated.
Evening Relaxation
Conclude your day with a calming posture. Sit on your heels and place the bolster in front of you. Lean forward into a comforting child’s pose supported by the bolster, allowing your chest and head to rest comfortably. This posture helps alleviate daily stress and readies you for a peaceful night’s sleep. Maintain this pose for 5-10 minutes, enabling complete relaxation of your body.
Integrating a yoga bolster into these uncomplicated routines can elevate your overall well being.
Investing a little can make a big difference in how comfortable and supported you feel throughout your day.
The Surprising Advantages of Incorporating a Yoga Bolster for Breathwork
When we consider yoga bolsters, our attention is usually drawn to their physical support during poses. However, have you ever thought about how a bolster can enhance your breathwork? Breathwork, also known as pranayama, plays a vital role in yoga and can be greatly enhanced with the appropriate props.
Enhancing Deep Breathing Through the Diaphragm
Utilizing a yoga bolster can assist in achieving deeper diaphragmatic breathing. Position the bolster beneath your back, aligning it with your spine. This arrangement opens up your chest and allows your diaphragm to expand fully. You will observe that your breaths become more profound and controlled. This is particularly advantageous for individuals who encounter difficulties with shallow breathing.
Providing Support for Breath Retention Practices
Breath retention exercises, such as kumbhaka, can pose challenges. A bolster can offer the required support to maintain a comfortable posture during these activities. Sit on the bolster with crossed legs and an upright spine. This elevation aids in sustaining a stable and relaxed position, facilitating better focus on breath retention.
Enhancing Respiratory Capacity
Incorporating a yoga bolster regularly into your breathwork routine can enhance your lung capacity significantly. By engaging in deep breathing exercises consistently using the bolster, you train your lungs to intake more air.
This could be especially helpful for athletes or individuals seeking to enhance their overall respiratory well being.
Managing Stress and Anxiety
Breathwork is renowned for its stress relieving advantages. Utilizing a bolster can enhance the comfort of these practices, enabling you to concentrate fully on your breath. The additional support aids in achieving deeper relaxation, thereby lowering stress and anxiety levels. It’s truly transformative for those grappling with high levels of stress or anxiety.
Personal Experience with Yoga Bolsters
My personal experience with yoga bolsters has been nothing short of wonderful. I recently purchased a yoga mat and decided to add a bolster to my practice for extra support during certain poses. After researching different options online, I came across a company that offered bolsters made with 100 % natural materials and ethically sourced. I was particularly drawn to the fact that they were environmental friendly and renewable. The bolster I ordered arrived quickly, with fast shipping and secure packaging. The bolster itself is firm yet soft, a perfect blend for providing the right amount of support. It also came with a removable pillow case for easy cleaning.
Not only was I impressed with the quality of the bolster, but the company also offered a guarantee of a full refund if not satisfied within 30 days. Their payment process was secure, with no third-party involvement. I appreciate the seam less transaction and the peace of mind it brought me. The bolster has enhanced my practice and I am able to get the support I need for my body. Its easy transport allows me to take it with me to the beach for a renewing practice by the ocean. I highly recommend investing in a yoga bolster for a more fulfilling practice.
I’ve discovered that integrating a yoga bolster into my breathwork routine has had a profound impact. The assistance it offers enables me to focus more on my breathing and less on maintaining a comfortable posture. It’s a minor adjustment that has significantly enhanced my practice.
Integrating a yoga bolster into your breathwork regimen may deliver surprising benefits that extend beyond physical assistance. It can refine your breathing methods, boost lung capacity and alleviate stress. If you haven’t given it a try yet, you’re overlooking a straightforward yet impactful method to elevate your yoga routine.
How To Care For Your Yoga Bolster
When it comes to caring for your yoga bolster, it’s important to maintain its freshness and stability for optimal use during your restorative yoga practice. The bolster provides firm and supportive support that you need during yoga, whether it’s for prenatal yoga or standard fitness routines. With a removable and machine washable cover, you can easily toss it in the washing machine to keep it clean. Additionally, our all-natural vegan bolsters are lightweight and easy to transport, making it perfect for on-the-go use. Please note that our customer reviews have rated our bolsters as top rated and superior in quality.
It is recommended to wash a bolster cover on a cold gentle cycle and hang to dry to prevent shrinking or damaging the material. Trust me, shrinking your yoga pillow cover and trying to put it back on is a massive headache.
To care for the core and filling of a bolster, simply wipe it down with diluted vinegar or a towel if moisture enters the inner liner. You can also let it dry out in the sun or an aerated place. The bolsters we’ve reviewed are super high quality and don’t seem to have any problems withstanding the tests of time and regular use. Avoid drenching your yoga bolster (nobody wants a moldy yoga pillow) or using it outside.
Enjoy a Supported Practice!
Have you tried any of these yoga bolsters? We’d love to hear about your experience.
Namaste!
Pop quiz! 🧘🤔
Yoga bolsters are only useful for advanced yoga practitioners.
A yoga bolster can help improve your posture during meditation.
All yoga bolsters are made from synthetic materials.
FAQs
What shape of yoga bolster is best?
The best shape of yoga bolster depends on the individual’s needs and preferences. Standard rectangular bolsters are versatile and provide good support for various poses. Round bolsters are useful for more specific positions and can offer better comfort during deep stretches. Cylindrical and Pranayama bolsters are great for breathing exercises and relaxation.
Are yoga bolsters worth it?
Yoga bolsters can be worth the investment for those who practice yoga regularly, especially for restorative and gentle styles. Bolsters offer support and comfort, help deepen stretches and improve alignment, and aid in relaxation and meditation. They can also provide modifications for those with injuries or limited flexibility.
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