I can give you some advice based on experience, pianoperformer, for commmunicating with a higher intelligence, be it a guide, angel, ect, you can do altered state meditation- this is when you alter your mind state from active (beta waves) to more relaxed (alpha waves).
Alpha waves seem to serve as a gateway to things like psychic abilities, healing, meditating, manifesting and more. A fast way to get into that state is to use binaural beats- sounds you listen to through stereo headphones that will quickly alter your mind state from active to relaxed. As mentioned, headphones are required.
Another way is to practice right before you drift off to sleep..
This is where intention and goal orientation come in... I find that strongly stating your intention or desire to experience something- an out of body experience, a lucid dream, will prompt the mind to help you achieve it.
Do it at night right as you drift off to sleep and you have an even better chance of experiencing it. If this where you like to go, let us know and I can post more info and even my own experiences with this state.
As for control of emotions, more peaceful loving guess what? I'm going to ask you to be even more specific
It's an important first step into getting there and knowing where you are going...
Good luck pianoperformer...