Bean bag chairs are a staple of many homes and are loved by kids and adults alike. They are fun, malleable and provide great comfort, especially when used as a chair. They also take up much less space than traditional furniture pieces, making them ideal for small spaces or those who prefer a more sleek look in their home décor.
But did you know that bean bags have a long and rich history? While most of us think that the modern-day bean bag only came into existence in the last 5 decades, it actually has an interesting and varied history that dates back to ancient China.
Historically, bean bags were used to assist in the practice of tai chi – a martial arts form that originated in the 12th century. The Chinese believed that the act of throwing the bags at the board helped to develop focus and concentration, as well as balance, speed and coordination. The bags were also used as a game that was played between teams by tossing them at a raised board with a hole in the end – the first team to score 21 points won.
Today, the most popular bean bag filling is made from expanded polystyrene beans -small foam balls that feel a little like Styrofoam. But there are a lot of other alternatives that you can try if you’re looking to be more environmentally conscious when it comes to your bean bag chair. Alternatives include old clothes, shredded paper, cedar shavings, edible beans, rice, sawdust, buckwheat hulls and pebbles.