About Us
Welcome to Avananda, the heart of a community deeply devoted to creating high quality yoga and meditation essentials. I am Andrius, the managing director and co-owner, guiding our charming atelier in Vilnius, Lithuania, with immense pride and passion.
Our journey is inspired by over two decades of personal yoga and Reiki practice, beautifully intertwined with Lithuania’s innate bond with nature — the last pagan country in Europe and our home. These deep roots and our respect for our Earth, its flora, trees, and all living beings, infuse our culture and distinctively shape our products. Hence, we consciously select natural materials like buckwheat hulls and natural textiles, aiming to nurture both the spirit and the body while expressing our gratitude towards Mother Nature.
Our sewing studio is much more than just a place to work – it is a home for a family of eight creative souls. Together, we navigate through life’s ebb and flow, celebrating each success and overcoming every challenge. Our team includes talented deaf artisans who enrich the craft with their sewing and tailoring skills, while we learn to communicate through visual aids and sign language. In this realm of creativity and mutual respect we not only live our values but also craft them into our products.
Become part of our community and feel the love and care that goes into every piece we create for you. By purchasing our products, together we set an example for social responsibility, diversity and sustainability.
Why choose Avananda?
Ānanda means “bliss” or “joy” in Sanskrit. With Avananda products, we invite you to immerse yourself in the bliss of practice and relaxation.
Why are Avananda pillows so special? Because we want to support your health with a holistic approach. Our philosophy highlights the hands as powerful tools for awareness and healing. In challenging times, be they physical or psychological, our mental focus may drift, yet sensations in our hands intensify. This natural shift of attention towards feeling fosters a direct link between our brain and the affected area, supplying valuable information to aid in the healing process. However, the healing exchange can be hindered by synthetic cushions that emit unpleasant smells. In contrast, our yoga cushions, crafted from natural buckwheat hulls and linen, enhance the sensory experience. They forge a connection with nature and deepen awareness of our inner selves by creating a clean, natural setting, which soothes the mind and facilitates healing.
We l(o)ive buckwheat
Our life is centered amidst nature, more precisely, surrounded by buckwheat fields. Year after year, we are part of the entire growth cycle: from the tender sprouting to the wonderfully fragrant bloom and finally to maturity at the end of summer. Then, the buckwheat is harvested, and the hulls are separated, which—imbued with the elements—carry the power of nature within them. They are excellently suited as filling for yoga bolsters and ZAFU meditation cushions. In hull form, they provide unparalleled support and breathability for a truly regenerative experience.
Handmade stitch from Europe
Our yoga cushions are hand-sewn with great care using environmentally friendly materials. A quality that underscores and expresses our passion for craftsmanship. Our production facility is located in Lithuania, the geographical heart of Europe, not far from you.
Creative, committed & social
Our team includes talented deaf people who enrich the craft with their sewing and tailoring skills. By purchasing our products, together we not only set an example for social responsibility and diversity, but also enable people with disabilities to have a normal life.
Sustainable from head to toe
To manufacture our products, we use natural materials such as cotton or natural linen, which are processed in the region. In order to transform these natural and recyclable raw materials into products that meet the OEKO-TEX 100 standard, we also rely on green and solar power.