Editorial Review

Thich Nhat Hanh's writing is deceptive in its subtlety. He'll go on and on with stories about tree-hugging or metaphors involving raw potatoes; he'll tell you how to eat mindfully, even how to breathe and walk; he'll suggest looking closely at a flower and to see the sun as your heart.As the Zen teacher Richard Baker commented, however, Nhat Hanh is "a cross between a cloud, a snail, and piece of heavy machinery." Sooner or later, it begins to sink in that Nhat Hanh is conveying a depth of psychology and a world outlook that require nothing less than a complete paradigm shift. Through his cute stories and compassionate admonitions, he gradually builds up to his philosophy of interbeing, the notion that none of us Read more

Reviews (64)

Worth Many Hours Of Psychotherapy
In this book, Thich Nhat Hanh goes beyond the differences between Eastern and Western philosophies and guides the reader in a very pragmatic manner towards creating peace.Interpersonal peace, peace in the family and community, world peace, and most importantly, peace within oneself. His words reflect an ancient wisdom which is simple yet so profoundly insightful. In my opinion, his approach to solving emotional suffering and curtailing society's ills dwarfs many theories of modern behavioral and social sciences. This is a work to be read and reread. I also recommendThich Nhat Hanh's "The Miracle of Mindfulness" as a complement to this work.
Forgiveness
From a Vietnamese Monk who has witnessed the transgressions and casulties of war, to forgive and teach the very enemy he tried to enlighten about the war-- I am amazed.He lives the life he teaches- non aggresion, peace, present moments.In his teaching I see him forgive and move on with the task of spreading his word to the world and anyone who will listen.I have become a reader of many of his books and feel like it is a friend talking to me.You can be a drop of water, a wave, but you can also be in the ocean.Thank you Thich Nhat Hanh...

My very favorite book of all time.
Thich Nhat Hanh is my very favorite author and,"Peace Is Every Step" is my very favorite book. Reading him you really get the feeling that a close and caring friend is talking to you. Also, I very much connect with his philosophy of interbeing. His poem, "Please Call Me By My True Names" is easily worth the price of this book in my opinion. There's just so much. When you are finished with this book, you should fully understand the concept of interbeing, and find yourself truly loving everyone and every thing! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - Zen    3. General    4. Religion - World Religions    5. Religious life    6. Body, Mind & Spirit / New Age    7. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques    8. Spirituality   

Editorial Review

A respected Zen master in Japan and founder of the San Francisco Zen Center, Shunryu Suzuki has blazed a path in American Buddhism like few others. He is the master who climbs down from the pages of the Read more

Reviews (117)

"Gone, gone, gone far beyond, enlightenment."
ZEN MIND, BEGINNER'S MIND is the most easily accessible guide to Zen practice, and is usually the first book that new practitioners and the Zen-curious approach after reading the more general "What's Zen Anyway?"-type books. Thus, it has developed an almost canonical reputation. Shunryu Suzuki (1905-1971) spent only a few years in America, was less than fluent in English, and taught in a way that was both simple and yet profound. With his easy intensity, Suzuki had a seminal role in establishing Zen as a viable spiritual practice in the United States and beyond.
This is the one that finally did it
This is the book that finally told me what enlightenment really IS--its something, but at the same time nothing.In addition, it tells you the no BS way to actualize it in your daily life.Just get it and see what happens, you will not be disappointed.If you are dissappointed with it, your cup is too full, poor some out and try again.

Thank you for this book
Thank you for your kindness. It's been a part of the years themselves. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism - General    2. General    3. Meditation    4. New Age    5. Philosophy    6. Zen Buddhism    7. Religion / Buddhism   

Reviews (23)

Zen Golf - Helpful?
The concepts and techniques I have applied from Zen Golf have really helped my game and my enjoyment of the game.I have read about half of the book so far.I have been able to avoid multiple hole blow-ups and enjoy the round even when it is not the best.

Best Golf Book ever
This is the most impactful golf book I have ever read.

Reviews by Nan Kilar and Bobby Miller
When I worked as the golf professional on Holland America's ms Westerdam, I told our guests that I saw the game of golf as four-dimensional: attitude, set-up, swing and course management. And I don't care if you are a tour player or a beginner, the very first thing that you take out of your bag had better be a good attitude, or you lose.
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Subjects:  1. Eastern - Zen    2. Golf    3. Golf - General    4. Golf - Instruction    5. Psychological aspects    6. Religious aspects    7. Sports    8. Sports & Recreation    9. Zen Buddhism    10. Sports & Recreation / Golf    11. Sports Psychology   

Editorial Review

So many books have been written about the meditation side of Zen and the everyday, chop wood/carry water side of Zen. But few books have approached Zen the way that most Japanese actually do--through ritualized arts of discipline and beauty--and perhaps that is why Eugen Herrigel's Read more

Reviews (53)

Awonderful account of Herrigel's spiritual journey/5 stars
As a Zen Buddhist--unlike a few of the reviewers who
rich catalyst for our life journey
masterpiece. even the way it is written brings the reader on a journey so that he himself can learn and experience what the author intends to convey. not by explicitly writing what he wants the reader to 'learn', but rather by guiding the reader through a path- that is the only way to truly gain.

hitting the bull's-eye blindfolded
There is the Zen of no mind in which you eat when hungry, rest when tired, and stop when finished.There is also the Zen known through the ritualized arts of discipline and beauty such as archery, swordsmanship, brush-and-ink, the tea ceremony, or flower arranging. This book is Herrigel's story of striking the target bull's-eye blindfolded. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Archery    2. Archery And Target Shooting    3. Eastern - General    4. Eastern - Zen    5. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    6. Philosophy    7. Zen Buddhism    8. Religion / Eastern   

Reviews (20)

A Mom's Perspective
I love this little guide.It's so beautifully written and helps me return to the the really important aspects of parenting:honoring each child's individuality and letting go of control.I read one or two passages each morning to remind me that I have a choice in how I interact with my children. This little guide is a must have if you feel the world is spinning a little too fast.

Excellent
This is a perfect book for new parents.You don't need to have a lot of time in one chunk, since it's a compilation of thoughtful advice pieces.These are very insightful and can give new meaning every time they're read.I give them to all new parents I know and they rave!

A daily dose of spiritual parenting inspiration and advice!
This book has so many wonderful pages of inspiration.The passages are beautifully written and contain simple words of advice. I close my eyes and choose a page from the book each morning... a simple reminder of a spiritual parenting idea to focus on that day.Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism - Zen    2. Child Care/Parenting    3. Dao de jing    4. Eastern - Taoism    5. Family & Relationships    6. Family / Parenting / Childbirth    7. Lao-tzu    8. Laozi    9. Parenting    10. Parenting - General    11. Taoism    12. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques   

Reviews (9)

So good I bought a copy for my SiFu
As a student of Shaolin, I believe this book to be an excellant study guide.I told my SiFu about and even bought him a copy.

Great book!
This is an excellent book, not only for the beginer, but also for those who have been studying Shaolin for many years! It is very informative about the history, phylosophy, and tecnique of Shaolin kung fu. It's a great book for doing cross-refrence on different training and also has many inspiring stories in it. I'd recomend this book to ANYONE interested in Shaolin!

Comprehensive
The book was indeed true to its title.The program it lays out covers everything! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Health/Fitness    2. Martial Arts    3. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    4. Religion / Zen Buddhism    5. Sports    6. Sports & Recreation    7. Sports & Recreation / Martial Arts & Self-Defense    8. Buddhism - Zen    9. China    10. Hand-to-hand fighting, Oriental    11. Health & Fitness / General    12. Kung fu    13. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques    14. Oriental martial arts    15. Religion   

Features

• Audiobook

Reviews (2)

Comfort and Guided Imagery
"Life is as good as the relationship with yourself." ~Cheri Huber
Review by a professional life coach who has used these materials
I am definitely a fan of Cheri Huber's approach to working with people and her emphasis on simplicity and practicality. She also has faith in the goodness of people and helps them to bring this forward in a loving manner.
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Subjects:  1. Audiobooks    2. Body, Mind & Spirit    3. Conduct of life    4. Inspiration & Personal Growth    5. New Age    6. New Age (Self Help)    7. Personal Growth - Self-Esteem    8. Self-acceptance    9. Unabridged Audio - Misc.Nonfiction    10. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques    11. Zen Buddhism   

Reviews (34)

Heart Warming
This book rates well alongside Arnold's 'Light of Asia'. It tells a more complete story of the Buddha's life and achievements, and clarifies some points about the teachings. With the companion book, 'The Heart of the Buddha's Teaching' the student and the adept both can gain valuable insight into The Buddha and His life. Well worth reading.

Why didn't I read this sooner?
A couple of years ago on retreat I asked a nun from Plum Village what her favorite Thich Nhat Hahn title would be. She named this hefty tome which I purchased but did not read for quite awhile, assuming that it would be tedious and difficult going. (I have no idea why, none of Thay's books are anything but lovely and engaging...) What a wonderful surprise I received as I started reading vignette after vignette from the Buddha's life. In breathtakingly beautiful prose, Thay brings this great historical figure to life in a way that just makes you wish you had been there. The stories also explain and illustrate some of the more esoteric teachings in ways that are simple and easy to grasp, especially for those of us not raised in this tradition. Don't be put off by the size of the book as I was. Keep it on your bedstand and read a few stories a night. You'll be sorry when you are done!

Makes you feel like you're walking alongside Lord Buddha.
Thich Nhat Hanh is arguably the best author of Buddhist literature.In Old Path, White Clouds he tells the life story of Lord Buddha.Old Path, White Clouds doesn't distract readers with a lot of the mythology or mysticism.Instead Thich Nhat Hanh focuses on the life and teachings of Lord Buddha.What makes this work is Thich Nhat Han's writing style.He really draws you into the story and makes you feel like you were actually there.Although the book is almost 600 pages long, it is a very easy read and it may leave you wishing for more.I know that was the case for me.If you are only going to get one book on Buddhism, this is the one to get. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - General    3. Gautama Buddha    4. General    5. Philosophy    6. Religion    7. Religion / Zen Buddhism   

Reviews (87)

A Modern Classic
This is a simple little book, easily read in a single sitting, but filled with memorable lessons that will remain with you for a lifetime.I especially recommend this book to the beginning martial artist, and have given many copies away.I read Zen in the Martial Arts very early in my training and it affected me greatly.It made me a better martial artist and a better human being.More importantly, it started me down a path towards greater self-discovery.That was twenty years ago.I still own a copy of the book and refer to it from time to time.
Excellent!
"Zen in the Martial Arts" is the sort of book that you read to remind you why you began the martial arts to begin with.Hyams writes about his brushes with such luminaries as Bruce Lee, Ed Parker (Elvis's bodyguard and sensei) and screenwriter Sterling Silliphant ("The Poseidon Adventure").Hyams's storytelling technique is somewhat like biblical parables, where each chapter tells a little story and has a lesson woven within.Hyams explains how the martial arts took him from being a stressed-out, excitable person to being serene and more type "B".And excellent little book!

My review
Excellent book really changes the way you look at karate in a whole the stories and the things explained are good. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. General    2. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    3. Philosophy    4. Oriental martial arts    5. Philosophy / General    6. Zen Buddhism   

Reviews (9)

A lovely book touching the kernel of Art
Is art about copying or creativity, has been and eternal question for aesthetes. Frederick Franck joins in this search for the kernel of beauty by using drawing as the means of Zen-meditation. He introduces SEEING/DRAWING as opposed to `subjects looking at objects, seeing less and less'.
A philosophical work that is not so deep
This book starts out by showing reader a technique of removing philosophical sunglass a typical person usually have when they look at objects. Then it wanders to signify it by relating it to something big, difficult to understand/not clearly stated, and appeal to feeling. artist mode of seeing
This book is about developing the artist mode of seeing. By drawing what you see you will see better and then be able to draw it better which will allow you to absorb the whole of nature by paying attention to its small details too. The book is an eye opener- Author- Creative Painting For The Young Artist ... Read more

Subjects:  1. 1909-    2. 1909-2006    3. Art    4. Buddhism - Zen    5. Drawing    6. Franck, Frederick,    7. General    8. Philosophy    9. Zen Buddhism    10. Art, fine art, decorative arts    11. Religion / Zen Buddhism   

Reviews (17)

Overeating from a Different Perspective
I purposely sought-out a book on the Zen of Dieting, and this was what came up in my search, so I bought it. I was not familiar with Zen beforehand, but I knew that all the dieting knowledge in the world was not helping me, that it was time to address the mental/psychological/spiritual attitude behind eating. This book was an excellent start. Some of the principles were too earthy and idealistic for me, but that did not prevent me from the benefits of many other lessons in the book. As they say "Take what you need and leave the rest."

Pleasant surprise
The book was much better than I expected.I felt compelled to write the author afterwards and thank her for writing such a book.I've read a ton of books in my lifetime and this is one that stays with you -- the principles can carry over to all aspects of one's life.It's also the kind of book you can pick up on any given day, turn to a page, and find something motivational.After 100's of books and 100's of diets, this was the first that inspired me to write a review.

A striking example of "each to their own"......
Not since D. J. Conway have I read a book that so often so missed the mark...clearly some have found it a wonderful source of information and inspiration...I found it a wonder of bafflement, observations presented as "ancient wisdom"..."what you weigh or what you eat cannot provide lasting nourishment because they are always changing." (what you ate is not supposed to last forever) "The Buddha did what you and I have done many times. He went to the opposite extreme. Instead of indulging himself, he deprived himself." (page 6) "Unlike you and me, Buddha did not bounce back and forth between the extremes of indulgnece (overeating) and deprivation (restricted dieting)." (page 7)...It does sound very profound unless you think while you are reading it......really, Buddha did not have an eating disorder, he fasted in the tradition of spiritual aspirants of the age until he decided/realized to try another practice. Better (I think) to read general books on Buddhism and allow the practice to flow naturally into your relationship with food. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Diet / Health / Fitness    2. Diet/Nutrition    3. Diets - General    4. Eastern - Zen    5. General    6. Health & Fitness    7. Religious aspects    8. Weight loss    9. Zen Buddhism    10. Diets & dieting    11. Health & Fitness / Diets   

Reviews (10)

A Big Commitment for Creativity
I am certain that even that torrent of innovation, Pablo Picasso, was interested in improving his creativity.So it's no surprise that the title of this book would pique the interest of artists
great experience!
i ordered the book for a class and the book arrived within a few days. also, in the condition that was stated on the website.

Class
I bought this bought for my design college course and it has been pretty helpful. I don't agree with all of the theories and practices but my teacher really does. It is good that I have to read it, it helps me understand him more. If you would like to learn practices of zen or zazen I'd recommend this book. It is also helpful if you like creative arts. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism - Zen    2. Creativity    3. Esthetics    4. Psychology    5. Religion    6. Zen Buddhism    7. Self-Help / General   

Editorial Review

If you can imagine Zen Existentialism, Read more

Reviews (19)

In general, a great book on Zen.
Second book read by the author. I have found no discontinuity between the authors books, which to me is a sign of a good book. Has made me think in a different way, glad I came across this book; I wasn't even looking!

unifying and inspiring
Direct, heartwarming, beautiful and points to what many of us have glimpsed and recognized as the nature of everything.

Just sitting!
"Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind" has consistently been the best-selling book on Buddhism in the USA --- for good reasons.Shunryu Suzuki-Roshi (not to be confused with the great academic scholar of Zen Buddhism, Professor Daisetzu Teitaro Suzuki) spoke clearly, compellingly, and comprehensively of the heart of Zen.It is a source of great joy that a second collection of Shunryu Suzuki's teishos (i.e., Dharma talks) has been published.What I am about to say about the two collections may reflect the change in my needs over time, rather than a real difference between the two anthologies.
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Subjects:  1. Asian And Oriental Religions    2. Buddhism - Zen    3. Eastern - General    4. Eastern - Zen    5. Religion    6. Religion - World Religions    7. Religion / Zen Buddhism   

Reviews (22)

Must read and practice
There are several aspects to becoming and great/profitable Hold Em player. Larry Phillips will give everything you need to know about two of these aspects in Zen and the Art of Poker. Learn patience. Learn controlled, focused aggression. Learn to win.

This Book has changed my life for the better.
I hadn't picked up a book in probably 5 or more years. I found Zen and The Art of Poker by chance. This book changed my style of play instantly. I couldn't help but relate the proverbs to my life which has also changed dramatically for the better, in various ways. This book has inspired me to live and love my life everyday. If you want to learn how to play patiently, powerfully, differently, or you simply want to add that extra advantage or foundation to your game... I highly recommend this book. If you have read every other poker book besides this book... I still highly recommend this book. It is a great addition to any style or way.

Graduating the Poker College
This along with David Apostolico's "Tournament Poker & the Art of War" is the Number 1 book that has totally transformed my game.I used to be a big Sklansky fan until I first found Apostolico's book.After reading that, I hit the delete button on 95% of the Sklansky material that I had memorized and I never looked back.
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Subjects:  1. Card Games - General    2. Card Games - Poker    3. Eastern - Zen    4. Games    5. Games / Gamebooks / Crosswords    6. Games/Puzzles    7. Poker    8. Psychological aspects    9. Zen Buddhism    10. Card games    11. Gambling    12. Games / Card Games / General   

Reviews (20)

Superb translation; consider reading a chapter a day
-Here's another five-star vote for an excellent translation showing care and faithfulness. The Introduction is itself a wonderful introduction to Buddhist thought and concepts, and the footnotes and index are commendable. The author often advises the reader when some controversy exists in translation and how this was resolved. Reading such a fine translation can add tremendous depth to your practice, help refine your compassion and wisdom, and give you an irreplaceable understanding of Buddhism.
The Authority on Buddhism
I have spent this past summer studying at the monastery where Bhikkhu Bodhi resides.In my daily contact with him, listening to his lectures, and having one-on-one discussions about Buddhism, I must say that he is one of the most influential and authoritative figures on the Dharma.
How long are the long ones?
Don't be fooled by the name.The "Middle Length" discourses tally 1151 pages, plus more than 200 pages of notes.But if you want to understand the philosophical aspect of Indian Buddhism, this book is a must.Fortunately, each sutta (skt. sutra) is relatively short (thus the name "Middle-Length"), so you can read it casually over a longer period of time.The text is also dense, as anyone familiar with classical Indian texts is well aware.So there's a lot of opportunity to ponder what you've just read. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - General    3. Buddhism - Zen    4. General    5. Philosophy    6. Religion    7. Criticism & exegesis of sacred texts    8. Religion / Buddhism   

Reviews (11)

I like Takuan's Zen...
...I'd like to meet him.But not in a duel.The title of the book is appropriate.Do not park your mind.Zen is a no-parking zone.It is alright to park your tail on a cushion, though.To understand this book, you need to be a bit of a martial artist, and a bit of a zennist to begin with.Not for beginners, or for those who like their gruel thin.

the unfettered pickle
i know this is completely unhelpful and i'm going to be berated for this review, but i think it's funny. in japan there's a kind of pickle named after takuan.
Neither zen nor sword
I got interested in the book because of its references to swordsmanship and Buddhism, two seemingly incompatible subjects. I knew for a fact that the Japanese used Buddhism as a vehicle for training the warrior class, and learning that the book consisted of letters from a Zen monk to a swordsman, expected the book to contain reasons why Buddhism and swordsmanship were compatible.Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism - General    2. Correspondence    3. Doctrines    4. General    5. Japan    6. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    7. Martial arts    8. Philosophy    9. Priests, Zen    10. Religious aspects    11. Sports    12. Sports & Recreation    13. Takuan Soho,    14. Zen Buddhism    15. Oriental & Indian philosophy    16. Oriental martial arts   

Reviews (37)

Incredibly simpe yet powerful depiction on Zen.

The Drama of Practice
I have very mixed feelings about this book.It is the book which really brought me to spiritual practice; for that, I will always be grateful.It was, however, the same things about it which first drew me in, that I now find problematic.
One of the few authentic and unique books on Zen
Today it seems the west is in a big backwash of Zen related themes. The Zen of Gardening, the Zen of Grooming your Pet, the Zen of brushing your teeth etc. Most of these accounts are by people who wouldn't know Realization if it jumped up and bit them in the rumps. It's due to these circumstances that Philip Kapleau's account of Zen is truly refreshing.
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Subjects:  1. Buddhism - Zen    2. Eastern - Zen    3. Philosophy    4. Religion    5. Religion - World Religions    6. Religious    7. Zen Buddhism    8. Philosophy of religion    9. Religion / Zen Buddhism   

Reviews (7)

Great introduction to meditation...
Thich Nhat Hanh recently spoke to the United States Congress about peace, violence, compassion, and listening. He suggested that members of Congress can find both inner and universal peace through walking meditation, or mindful walking. This tiny book serves as an introduction to this practice. Each page represents an idea, and the first page proclaims "Anyone can do it." Reading on, the book reveals the true simplicity of walking meditation, and validates the claim that "anyone can do it." Controlling one's breath is not the goal, but being aware of one's breath, being aware of the earth and one's feet against it. The book explains how to accomplish this in incredibly easy to understand language. Short stories about the Buddah and Thich Nhat Hanh's experiences with walking meditation, as well as many photos, punctuate the lessons. The book also suggests practical applications for walking meditation: dealing with anger, panic, and helping to find solutions to immediate problems. A great introduction to meditation and the thought of Thich Nhat Hahn.

Keep one in your pocket
Spring and summer are on their way. Make sure you have a copy in your pocket. Walk this Way
I've been waiting for an author to capture the experience of walking meditation. For years I have been baffled by those who say that walking is boring and that running is preferable. I have always found meditative walking to be joyful and now there is one who paints such a lovely picture of this mystical experience accessible for so many.Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - General    3. Buddhist meditations    4. Meditation    5. Meditations    6. Religion    7. Religion - World Religions    8. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques    9. Personal religious testimony    10. Religion / Zen Buddhism   

Reviews (9)

This is an absolute gem
In a very few words, Thich Nhat Hanh puts in very simple terms what many of us struggle to come to terms with - the esoteric Dharma-teachings on emptiness.Perhaps it's the Zen-born simplicity that makes this treatise so approachable and readable. Incredible wisdom made accessible.
Thich Nhat Hanh sheds light on this superb Buddhist text. The paradoxical language of the scripture is important to convey the illusory qualities of emptiness and individual existence. Unfortunately this language makes it extremely difficult to understand. Hanh takes this esoteric teaching and explains it to a child. I recommend any of his sutra translations and commentaries.

Great book
A Nobel Peace Prize candidate, Thich Nhat Hanh explains in easy to understand language, what this paradoxical concept of emptiness means in Buddhism. This should be a good book to start off with if interested in Buddhism or emptiness. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism - General    2. Buddhism - Zen    3. Commentaries    4. General    5. Hrdaya    6. Hòrdaya    7. Indian Philosophy    8. New Age / Body, Mind & Spirit    9. Prajnaparamita    10. Prajänåapåaramitåa.    11. Religion    12. Sutrapitaka    13. Såutrapiòtaka.    14. Tripitaka    15. Tripiòtaka.    16. India    17. Mind, body, spirit: thought & practice    18. Religion / Zen Buddhism   

Reviews (2)

true understanding
this book is written by a true master of shiatsu.masunaga has taken his life work and written a concise book that serves not only as an introduction to shiatsu, but also has techniques for the advanced practitioner.mainly