What happened to our attention?

Key Ideas from Peak Mind by Amishi Jha

Attention as a Mental Muscle
Jha describes attention as a limited resource that can be trained, much like a muscle. When we’re distracted or stressed, our attention weakens, but mindfulness practice helps strengthen and stabilize it.
The Three Systems of Attention
- Alerting: Staying ready and vigilant.
- Orienting: Directing focus to what matters most.
- Executive Control: Managing thoughts, emotions, and impulses.
  Mindfulness supports all three, improving clarity and decision-making.
The 12-Minute Rule
Her research shows that just 12 minutes of mindfulness practice per day can significantly improve focus and emotional balance, especially under pressure.
Mindfulness as Mental Armor
Rather than escaping stress, mindfulness helps us face it with awareness and composure. It builds “mental armor” that protects attention and emotional stability.
Practical Application
Jha emphasizes short, consistent practice over long sessions. Even brief moments of mindful breathing or body awareness throughout the day can reset attention and reduce mental fatigue.
Peak Mind State
The “peak mind” is not about constant calm or perfection—it’s about being fully present, aware, and able to respond wisely to whatever arises.

Very important to shift our focus between the present moment and the future also.

Presentation – Balance by Guðbjörg Eggertsdóttir