Focus & Attention

Distraction is the default setting for most of us. These articles and practices help you train your attention, stay present with what matters, and work with a wandering mind instead of fighting it.
Feeling Overconnected? Here are Simple Ways to Unplug
Focus & Attention
Feeling Overconnected? Here are Simple Ways to Unplug 

As much as we'd all like to escape from our technology, oftentimes the demands of work don't give us the choice. Elisha Goldstein gives advice on how to use our digital devices to actually support us in our mindfulness practice. Read More 

  • Elisha Goldstein
  • May 18, 2011
A white electrical outlet with two sockets is centered on a bright green wall. The outlet cover is simple and clean, contrasting with the vibrant background color. The image has a minimalist aesthetic with no other objects visible.
Focus & Attention
Is it Time to Unplug? 

"So there I was driving," writes Elisha Goldstein, "only to look up and find that I was three exits past where I needed to get off. Talk about being on auto-pilot. Sound familiar?" Read More 

  • Line Goguen-Hughes
  • May 6, 2011
A yellow pencil points towards two checkboxes labeled
Focus & Attention
Meditation Leads to Better Decision-Making 

A new study  reveals how mindfulness practice can change decision-making for the better. The study, conducted by the Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute, found that people who meditate regularly use different parts of their brains in the decision-making process. A total of 66 people participated in the study. Those who regularly practiced… Read More 

  • Mindful Staff
  • April 26, 2011
A person's hand giving a thumbs-up gesture is displayed next to multiple instances of the word
Focus & Attention
Mindful Social Networking 

Social networking—is it helpful or harmful? Ethan Nichtern offers suggestions for how we can go online without losing our minds. Read More 

  • Mindful Staff
  • April 21, 2011
A man in a suit walks on a tightrope high above a city skyline, balancing with arms outstretched. The background features numerous tall buildings under a cloudy sky.
Expert Interviews
The Illusion of Control 

With today’s 24/7 demands, our attention is fractured and we’re forced to focus on what’s urgent, not what's important. But it doesn’t have to be that way, says Janice Marturano. Read More 

  • Line Goguen-Hughes
  • March 22, 2011
A swimmer in a dark swimsuit and goggles is seen underwater, performing a streamlined dive with arms extended forward. Bubbles can be seen around her as she moves through the clear blue water.
Focus & Attention
Mindful Swimming 

Jump into the pool with Tonya Nascimento. Experience the rhythm of your stroke, the comfort of the water holding you up, the rush of the water past your ears, the craziness of hundreds of people swimming in circles and spaced just so. Competitive swimmers, like all athletes, can benefit from practicing in the moment. Read More 

  • Line Goguen-Hughes
  • March 4, 2011
Two boys sitting in a classroom.
Focus & Attention
Please Help Me Learn Who I Am 

Barry Boyce reports on how contemplation can not only improve grades and decision-making skills, but also transform our system of education. Read More 

  • Mindful Staff
  • August 25, 2010
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