From my POV it is possible to ATA THIS, which would include both sensory perception AND thoughts. However, this is very difficult for most peeps. It is usually much easier to ATA sensory perception, and the ultimate effect is no different than if one attended both sensory perception AND thoughts.
Tibetan Buddhists have all kinds of visualization practices, but I see no point in exercising mind with visualizations because most peeps give mind a good workout 24/7. Same same with breath counting. I only recommend that practice if someone's mind is so ADD that simple breath awareness is not possible. Mental counting, mantras, and visualizations are all mindstuff, and the usual problem is too much mindstuff to begin with.
Tibetan Buddhists have all kinds of visualization practices, but I see no point in exercising mind with visualizations because most peeps give mind a good workout 24/7. Same same with breath counting. I only recommend that practice if someone's mind is so ADD that simple breath awareness is not possible. Mental counting, mantras, and visualizations are all mindstuff, and the usual problem is too much mindstuff to begin with.
