Ideas change everything

How to tame your wandering mind

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Amishi Jha |

TEDxCoconutGrove

• March 2017

Amishi Jha studies how we pay attention: the process by which our brain decides what's important out of the constant stream of information it receives. Both external distractions (like stress) and internal ones (like mind-wandering) diminish our attention's power, Jha says -- but some simple techniques can boost it. "Pay attention to your attention," Jha says.

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Want to use TED Talks in your organization?

Amishi Jha studies how we pay attention: the process by which our brain decides what's important out of the constant stream of information it receives. Both external distractions (like stress) and internal ones (like mind-wandering) diminish our attention's power, Jha says -- but some simple techniques can boost it. "Pay attention to your attention," Jha says.

Want to use TED Talks in your organization?

This talk was presented to a local audience at TEDxCoconutGrove, an independent event. TED's editors chose to feature it for you.

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Mindfulness training programs are offered broadly. Learn more about how to get training.

About the speaker

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As a neuroscientist specializing in the brain mechanisms of attention, Amishi Jha researches mindfulness techniques to optimize focus, even under high stress.

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Peak Mind

Amishi Jha | HarperOne (2021)

Amishi Jha - *Peak Mind*

"4 simple exercises to strengthen your attention and reduce distractibility"

Our attention gets hijacked by everything from the stress in our lives to the ding of our phones. Neuroscientist Amishi Jha shows how we can cultivate the ability to focus on what really matters.

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"A Mindfulness of Breathing Exercise with Neuroscientist Amishi Jha"

Neuroscientist Amishi Jha shares a mindfulness exercise that we might call a "push-up" for your attention.

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This talk was presented to a local audience at TEDxCoconutGrove, an independent event. TED's editors chose to feature it for you.

Read more about TEDx.

Mindfulness training programs are offered broadly. Learn more about how to get training.

Amishi Jha: How to tame your wandering mind | TED Talk