An analysis of the underlying similarities between the Easternmeditation tradition and attention restoration theory (ART)provides a basis for an expanded framework for studying directedattention. The focus of the analysis is the active role theindividual can play in the preservation and recovery of thedirected attention capacity. Two complementary strategies arepresented that can help individuals more effectively managetheir attentional resource. One strategy involves avoiding unnecessarycosts in terms of expenditure of directed attention. The otherinvolves enhancing the effect of restorative opportunities.Both strategies are hypothesized to be more effective if onegains generic knowledge, self-knowledge, and specific skills.The interplay between a more active form of mental involvementand the more passive approach of meditation appears to havefar-reaching ramifications for managing directed attention.