The Distinction between Meditation and Post-Meditation by Lama Zhang
The space before you is like a pure mandala: luminous and empty, unobstructed, free from center and circumference.
This directly points to the nature of mind: clarity and emptiness inseparable, utterly beyond conceptual boundaries.
Resting undistracted, vivid and fresh.
This is certainly the meditative equipoise of the first yoga.
Here, meditative equipoise refers to resting directly in meditation in a settled, clear, and non-distracted awareness.
From that state, when many thoughts proliferate, even while remaining on the cushion, it should be recognized as post-meditation.
This is an important point. Post-meditation is not determined merely by rising from the meditation seat. If conceptual thoughts arise and the mind follows them, even on the cushion this should be considered a post-meditation state
Otherwise, if clarity and emptiness remain vivid and fresh,
Whether staying, walking, sitting, or engaging in any other activity,
One abides in the state of meditative equipoise—samadhi.
This verse explains the non-separation of meditation and daily life. If awareness remains fresh and non-dual, then even amidst activity one remains in meditative equipoise.
Seek liberation through faith, devotion, and contemplation of impermanence.
Generate bodhicitta and hold renunciation as essential.
Do not fall into laziness, for overcoming it benefits both this life and the next.
Practice diligence and do not be swayed by the power of afflictions.
Let conscientiousness and mindfulness lead the way along the path.
This concluding verse gives important practical advice for the practitioner.
The essential meaning of these verses is that meditative equipoise is not merely sitting still; it is abiding in a fresh, luminous, and empty awareness, utterly free from distraction. Conversely, post-meditation is not defined simply by what happens after leaving the cushion, but rather by the moment conceptual proliferation takes over.
Therefore, meditation and post-meditation are distinguished by one’s state of awareness, not by physical posture or bodily activity. Furthermore, this practice must be firmly supported by faith, a deep sense of impermanence, bodhicitta, renunciation, diligence, mindfulness, and vigilant introspection.
This presentation closely reflects the experiential instructions of the Kagyu Mahāmudrā tradition. These profound verses on meditative equipoise and post-meditation were composed by Lama Zhang, accompanied by the commentary of Zurmang Gharwang Rinpoche.