Non-meditation as meditation

One of the most distinctive teachings of Dzogchen is that true meditation is 'non-meditation.' Instead of striving to achieve states, practitioners rest in the natural awareness that is already present.

Dzogchen Essentials
August 21, 2024
2 min read

Article 1 of 6 in Integration into Life/

What is Non-Meditation?

Non-meditation (gom me) means not meditating in the conventional sense of effort or technique.
It is not blankness, distraction, or passivity, but resting naturally in rigpa.
The key is effortless presence—awareness recognizing itself without fabrication.

How It Differs from Ordinary Meditation:

Ordinary meditation: Focuses on objects, concentration, visualization, or controlling the mind.
Non-meditation: Has no object, effort, or goal; it is abiding in awareness as it is.
In non-meditation, nothing is rejected, altered, or pursued.

Practical Instructions:

Sit in a relaxed posture and let go of effort.
Recognize awareness itself—clear, open, self-knowing.
Do not try to block thoughts or maintain states; allow everything to arise and dissolve naturally.
Rest in the recognition that awareness is unbroken, whether thoughts are present or not.

Qualities of Non-Meditation:

Spacious and open, like the sky.
Effortless and natural, without strain.
Inclusive—thoughts, emotions, and perceptions self-liberate within awareness.

Integration into Life:

Non-meditation is not confined to the cushion—it extends into every activity.
Walking, speaking, or working can all be expressions of resting in awareness.
The continuity of non-meditation transforms life itself into practice.

Analogies:

Like a mirror reflecting everything effortlessly, without effort to reflect.
Like space—unobstructed, allowing all phenomena but untouched by them.

Summary: In Dzogchen, meditation means non-meditation—effortless resting in awareness. By dropping striving and fabrication, practitioners discover that rigpa is always present, in meditation and in daily life.

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