File:Myerspel4e fig 5 14.jpg

A cross section of the brain showing the thalamus existing between the nerve pathway from retina to the visual cortex. The thalamus is where comparison of visual stimulus from the retina and feedback from the visual cortex take place. Mindful viewing requires that you shift your attention more to the visual input from the retinas rather than passively allow the visual cortex to fill up your vision which generally happens when looking at familiar environments/objects.

[Image Source: https://www.macmillanhighered.com/BrainHoney/Resource/22292/digital_first_content/trunk/test/pel4e/asset/img_ch5/myerspel4e_fig_5_14.html ]