Dr. Jha describes three systems of attention.  

The “Flashlight” system is narrow and focused. Where you point the flashlight, the area becomes brighter, and information outside the beam is suppressed. This is also called alerting or focusing attention on specific information.

A second type of attention is the “Floodlight,” which is broad and open, like being on alert and looking for something, but you may not be sure what you are looking for. This is also known as orienting, or deciding what is important amid the background of distractions or possibilities.

The third system of attention is the “Juggler”.  This type of attention oversees and directs executive functions, which involve managing multiple skills to pursue goals.  This third subsystem of attention helps us resist distractions and monitor how well we are staying on track. Executive skills include prioritizing, decision-making, working memory, and self-regulation, as well as the allocation and management of attention across all three types.

Specific strategies have been developed to strengthen different types of attention, involving training people in specific forms of meditation to strengthen each type.

Visit our Attention Strategies section for more information.