At "A Day in the Life" at EDA we practiced "mindful listening", and I found it quite hard just to listen and not to react at all, not to ask any questions while the person was talking. However, it is a good way to be actully focused on listening, to absorb the information given, and to respond.
When it comes to practice it is a good idea to have a friend to practice together, as you can motivate each other.
I've learned there are 2 qualities of attention: focused attention and open attention. I've never thought about flexible (open) side of attention. And also, this chapter reminded me the simplest thing: every practice requires effort.