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Their unique shape provides a variety of benefits for the body and mind. Thai cushions are also called triangular or wedge-shaped pillows. There are several notable benefits including:
Thai pillows are also a very practical option. In addition to being lightweight, the covers can usually be removed and washed. They are reasonably priced and come in a variety of colours and materials.
Thai pillows provide maximum benefits when the appropriate size and firmness are selected and the pillow height is adjusted correctly. The pillow might be better a little higher if you're using it as a backrest, and a little lower if you're sleeping with it.
You can experiment with different angles and positions to find one that feels comfortable and supports you best.
King Ramkhamhaeng the Great created the ancient city of Sukothai in the 13th century and references to Thai pillows have been found in inscriptions within its ruins. Therefore it’s reasonable to assume that these pillows were well established in Sukothai during this period.
Because Sukothai was a major trading center, Thai pillows likely incorporated Chinese and Indian designs. The Chinese triangular pillows were made from wood or clay and used as neck supports, whereas Indian triangular pillows were made from stone and used for yoga and meditation.
The popularity of these cushions continued during the Ayutthaya period (1351-1767). Relics have been found of cushions decorated with intricate carvings and designs which, it is believed, were used as seating cushions for high-ranking individuals. Today it is more common to see cotton, silk, and kapok used to make pillows, responding to the demands of the modern market.
Thai pillows became more common in rural areas during the Rattanakosin period (1782-1932). when we see simplicity and practicality becoming more prominent in the designs.
Thai pillows remain an important part of Thai culture today but have also become popular in the west. Probably because of this they have evolved into a ‘must have’ accessory to the home and are now available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials making them adaptable for a variety of purposes including sleeping, meditation, yoga, reading, and so on.
Pillows play a crucial role in determining how comfortable you are at night and how well you sleep. In order to make the right pillow choice, you need to know what factors make a pillow good or bad. When choosing a pillow, we must consider some key factors such as the materials used, the firmness level, and construction quality.
The upholstery material used in a pillow is one of the most important factors to consider. The best pillows are typically made from natural materials such as kapok, cotton, or down. Kapok is particularly popular for pillows. Unlike synthetic materials, it is natural, lightweight, fluffy and hypoallergenic. It is obtained from the seed pods of the kapok tree making it completely biodegradable. As it can be harvested without damaging the tree, it is also supremely eco-friendly.
A good way to determine if the stuffing of pillows is new or used is to look at the quality of the kapok. Used kapok might not provide as much support as new kapok since it will have lost some of its fluffiness. Over time, kapok may compress and lose its shape and support, so it's important to check the compression level of the filling.
This is important as it affects the firmness of the pillow. It may not be possible to provide adequate head and neck support with a pillow that is either too firm or too soft. Choosing a pillow that provides enough support to keep the spine in a neutral position while sleeping is a good rule of thumb. Finding the right balance that suits your needs is, of course, a matter of personal preference.
The quality of construction is also an important factor to consider. It is important the edges of a pillow are double-stitched to prevent the stuffing from escaping. A removable cover is often a feature of high-quality pillows, allowing it to be easily washed which will extend the lifespan of the pillow.
Thai pillow covers are often made from Thai kit fabric, which is a blend of cotton and polyester that provides softness and durability.
It's also important to understand that not all materials used in pillow fillings are optimal, whether they are Thai pillows, triangular pillows, or wedge-shaped pillows. A pillow made from rice straw may not be the best choice. Rice straw, a byproduct of rice farming, does have some downsides. It lacks fluffiness and softness which will not make sleeping comfortable if you are accustomed to a soft cushion. It may also be itchy, causing irritation to some people as well as causing allergies.
The rice straw pillow is undoubtedly linked to the ancient customs and traditions of south-east Asia but this may not be suitable for all individuals especially if it’s something you are not familiar with.
Rural Thai families, who are also rice farmers, have been making pillows for generations. During the winter and spring months, when rice fields lay fallow until the rainy season begins in late May, these farmers often turn to pillow making. As a result, they are able to supplement their income and keep their families financially stable throughout the year.
Unlike the clothing industry, modern pillow manufacturing is centered around the rural Thai village, there are no centralized "pillow factories". They are small-scale businesses where the majority of pillow-makers are women, and they usually work in an open air environment.
Pillows can also be made at home and left on the porch for pickup the next day. In remote areas, where buyers and markets are difficult to reach, this is particularly convenient.
There are many pillow makers who are self taught, or who learned their craft from their grandmothers or mothers. In addition to selecting the right materials, preparing them and stuffing them, these artisans are able to design and embroider as well as create different patterns and designs.
Today, pillow makers are experimenting with new materials such as foam and synthetic fibers in addition to traditional methods and materials. In addition, stitching by machine is gaining popularity although some still use traditional hand stitching.
The Thai pillow has evolved over the centuries and today is still a popular part of Thai culture. Physical and mental benefits of Thai pillows include improved sleep, reduced neck and shoulder pain and tension, improved posture, and relaxation. Natural fibers like cotton, silk, or kapok, as well as synthetic materials such as foam, are versatile, easy to use and maintain.
However, when choosing a pillow, it is important to consider the materials and the quality of construction, especially if you are interested in sustainability and comfort. Looking to create a boho home, you can complement your Thai cushions with our Thai made boho table lamps, boho floor lamps and or our bamboo pendant lights, or our boho wall sconces, all made from sustainable bamboo by local artisans.
