ABSTRACT
The common principles underpinning guidance of mindfulness practices are wide ranging and complex but they can be helpfully organised using Shapiro et al.'s model of the three axioms of intention, attention and attitude. In this chapter, the authors detail the core principles of attention and attitude, discussing them in terms of the following: learning intentions, and teaching considerations. The attitude of remaining open to all experiences as they arise and pass away develops the skill of remaining spacious with the whole range of human experience. When guiding a practice, clear and accessible guidance of both where and how to place attention needs to be offered. The task is not to stop the mind wandering but to invite attention to what is actually happening in a way that does not strengthen the default habits of judging and striving. It is important to infuse guidance with multiple and clear invitations to be aware of attitude.
