Shamatha with Formless Object #

Cultivating Vast, Open Awareness

Overview #

Shamatha with a formless object (or shamatha without object) is a powerful style of meditative concentration where the “object” is not a thing, but a quality of spaciousness or absence. Rather than focusing on the breath, body, or visual object, the mind rests on formless phenomena: open space, infinite expansion, or even awareness itself.

This method leads to deeply altered states of stillness, disembodiment, and expansive awareness. It’s a gateway into non-dual insight and a profound alternative to object-based concentration.

Theoretical Basis #

In classical Buddhist meditation, shamatha (calm abiding) is often practiced using the breath or kasinas. But advanced manuals like the Visuddhimagga describe formless objects — such as infinite space, consciousness, nothingness — as valid and profound focal points.

In Tibetan Mahāmudrā and Dzogchen traditions, this practice is also foundational, leading to direct awareness of the mind’s nature.

From a cognitive science angle, directing attention toward an “absence” suppresses sensory prediction models, allowing new modes of perception to emerge.

Step-by-Step Guide #

1. Materials Needed: #

• A quiet, undisturbed space
• A comfortable seated position
• Optional: dark room, float tank, or high-altitude view
• A journal to note shifts in perception or awareness

2. Choosing a Formless Object: #

Common options include:

• Open space in front of you
• The absence of thoughts
• The feeling of nothingness or void
• Awareness itself — the knowing quality of mind

Choose one and lightly rest your attention on it. Don’t over-concentrate — let the mind settle like snow in a globe.

3. Meditation Process: #

1. Sit upright and breathe naturally
2. Rest your gaze softly (or close your eyes)
3. Place attention on the chosen formless object
4. If thoughts arise, note them and return to the vastness
5. If nothing arises, rest in that too
6. Gradually extend session time from 10 to 45+ minutes

There is no “thing” to hold — just let go and keep releasing into openness

Expected Outcomes #

The shift is often gradual — but with consistency, this practice can rewire how the mind relates to experience.

Risks & Considerations #

• Disorientation: Sensations of vastness or dissolution may feel ungrounding
• Spiritual Bypass Alert: Stillness ≠ insight — integrate with inquiry if needed
• Lack of Feedback: With no clear “object,” progress can feel vague or unclear
• Sleepiness: Without a strong frame, drifting off is common

Further Exploration #

• Compare with Object-Based Shamatha: Try switching between breath and space
• Combine with Fire Kasina or Skeleton Practice: Formless after form can deepen both
• Study Dzogchen or Mahāmudrā Manuals for advanced pointing-out instructions
• Pair with Nature: Use a wide sky or mountaintop as your training ground

Call for Reports #