To begin with we need to give the mind something to focus on, something to concentrate on. Traditionally these were known as ‘objects of meditation’ or ‘meditation supports’ and they were classified as external or internal. External supports might include techniques such as gazing at a particular object, listening to a particular sound, or perhaps

meditation can be used to clarify and support that purpose, because what the practice will show you, in a very direct way, is that a lasting sense of happiness and sense of headspace is not dependent on these things.

filter of emotion creates the illusion of how our world looks at any one time.

‘headspace’. It describes an underlying sense of peace, a feeling of fulfilment or unshakeable contentment, no matter what emotion might be in play at that time.

Headspace does not mean being free from emotions, but rather existing in a place where you are at ease with whatever emotion is present.

Meditation and thoughts

If you’re the kind of person who is very resilient and optimistic, then there’s a good chance that the front left-hand side of your brain is very active. If, on the other hand, you tend to get quite anxious and caught up in lots of negative thinking, then it will be the front right-hand side of the brain which is more active. Neuroscientists at the

The filter of emotions

Exercise 8: walking meditation