Amazon.com
After D.T. Suzuki, Alan Watts stands as the godfather of Zen in America. Often taken to task for inspiring the flimsy spontaneity of Beat Zen, Watts had an undeniably keen understanding of his subject. Nowhere is this more evident than in his 1957 classic The Way of Zen, which has been reissued. Watts takes the reader back to the philosophical foundations of Zen in the conceptual world of Hinduism, follows Buddhism's course through the development of the early Mahayana school, the birth of Zen from Buddhism's marriage with Chinese Taoism, and on to Zen's unique expression in Japanese art and life. As a Westerner, Watts anticipates the stumbling blocks encountered with such concepts as emptiness and no-mind, then illustrates with flawlessly apt examples. Many popular books have been written on Zen since Watts' time, but few have been able to muster the rare combination of erudition and clarity that have kept The Way of Zen in readers' hands decade after decade. --Brian BruyaBook Description
The Way of Zen presents an understandable, inspirational and spiritually rewarding exploration of Zen Buddhism - "a way of liberation" that may be one of the most precious gifts of Asia to the world. For the first time on audio tape, The Way of Zen presents readings of carefully-chosen selections from Alan Watts' classic bestseller, illuminated by rare recordings of the author personally commenting on some of the concepts and ideas in the book. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (41)

A Remarkable Achievement
There are several excellent (informative) reviews of The Way of Zen, and I won't try to duplicate them here.In my review I will briefly summarize the book, and say something about Watts' remarkable erudition.

PART I: BACKGROUND AND HISTORY

Chapter 1: The Way of Tao.I am well-versed in philosophical Taoism so there is little new in this chapter for me, but the chapter is a fine introduction to the topic.

Chapter 2: The Origins of Buddhism. This is my least favorite chapter, not because it is inferior in any way, but because the topic does not really interest me.At least not now.The chapter is notable in that it is here that Watts first mentions cybernetics (p. 48), with an example that illuminates both the Buddhist principle (avidya) and the cybernetic principle (illusion of control).There is more cybernetics to come.

Chapter 3: Mahayana Buddhism. This is better, mainly because in this chapter Watts extends my understanding of Taoism (e.g., ziran) and Zen (e.g., tathata).Interesting.

Chapter 4: The Rise and Development of Zen. All four of the history chapters are excellent, but this is the one that has the most to offer me, in terms of my interests and background.It is a very personal history, based on the stories of the Zen founders (e.g., Hui-neng), which I enjoyed greatly.It is also helpful to see how the various "flavors" of Zen developed, which seems to be a common characteristic of the great spiritual traditions.

PART II: PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES

Chapter 1: "Empty and Marvelous"Here Watts takes up a basic principle of both Taoism and Zen: the power of empty space.Ames and Hall, translators of the Daodejing, address this basic principle by means of the "wu-forms" (wuwei, wushi, etc.)In Zen, this principle manifests itself as "suchness" - forget the words, just "point."This chapter did much to enhance my understanding of this crucially important principle.

Chapter 2: "Sitting Quietly, Doing Nothing" This is the chapter that quite literally "blew me away" In this chapter Watts demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of cybernetic principles, and interprets the practice of zazen in terms of these principles.Watts describes how the practice of "sitting quietly, doing nothing" helps dissolve the dualities of the Western mind (and, apparently, the Eastern mind as well!).Based on other books I have read by Alan Watts, I expected a sophisticated treatment of Zen (and I am not disappointed), but I was totally surprised to see an equally sophisticated treatment of cybernetic principles, and how they apply to Zen practice.In this regard, The Way of Zen anticipates Douglas Flemons' excellent book, Completing Distinctions, by almost forty years.In my copy of The Way of Zen, on the last page of this chapter, is written the note "An astonishing chapter."Wow.

Chapter 3: Za-zen and the Koan.Following Chapter 2, which is electric, this chapter is a bit of a let down.However, it is well written, as with the others, and I did appreciate a better understanding of these two Zen practices, and the role they play in Zen teaching.

Chapter 4: Zen in the Arts.Another great chapter.As a consequence of reading this chapter, I now understand the purpose and practice of Zen poetry.And as a consequence of this new understanding, I am writing my own Haikus ... almost one every day.Sweet!

The Way of Zen is a must read, although I am sure, like any great book, every reader will meet the book in a different place, in a different way. After reading Watts' Way of Zen, I recommend reading Philip Kapleau's Three Pillars of Zen: Teaching, Practice, and Enlightenment.It corrects some minor errors in Watts' book, and is a sensible next step in one's exploration of Zen.

It's got the goods
This is my second Alan Watts book and I enjoyed it very much.I noticed a reviewer stating that it seemed a little dry, of courses this is personal preference.For me, it started of good, dragged a little during the history of Zen part about half way through the first part, then the second part really picked up again.Again,that's only because I wasn't as interested in the background as in the practices.Someone who is interested in where it came from and the branches of Zen would find it very fascinating.
One of the fascinating things about reading The Way of Zen and The Book is that one can see many things that have transpired in our culture that were obviously influenced by Watts' philosophy.It can be seen as coming directly from his words and not just from another source.
Years ago I read Psyco-Cybernetics by Maxwell Maltz, and I agree that it is a classic written in the early 60's dealing with human behavior, self esteem andself image.After reading The Way of Zen, which was written in the 50's, it became apparent as to where many of Maltz's ideas came from, he just reorganized them and obscured any relation to Zen, just from a psychological point of view, which is good.I reading about the Zen way and didn't realize it.Since reading Maltz, I've read some about Zen and noticed the similarities, but reading this, one could almost accuse Maltz of plagiarism.The only thing is Maltz made it more palatable for the western mind that wasn't ready or willing to embrace eastern philosophy.
Watts' writing seems to be from the perspective of a philosopher rather than a practitioner.You get the idea that he believes in the validity of what the practice of Zen, but not that he was on the path himself, which takes nothing away from the book.
The Way of Zen didn't seem to be as dated as The Book, as his way of writing didn't really reflect any of the verbiage of the time.
It's really nice discovering these books that were written before "I was born" and seeing that they contain fresh insight to ideas that were around long, long before "I was born".
If you're into Zen, on a path to "Self" discovery, or just starting, this book has some good pointers.

My Favorite Book of all the ones I have ever read...
I first read this book almost 30 years ago.Coming from a martial arts background I knew what Zen was and all that but this book had such a wonderful descriptive history of Zen and described all its branches that even I learned much from it.
I mostly just checked on its availability from Amazon to see if my old favorite was still available.
I think Watts is even better than Suzuki at talking about Zen.. he is the best I have ever read.
If anybody wants to learn about Zen and all its branches and history this book can't be beat.

Very Good book.
I've been studying and practicing Buddism on my own for about five years. Recently a friend of mine said I should read this book. I really enjoyed it my only complaint is that it was a little dty.

Didn't like it too much... for now, at least
I give this book 3 stars b/c it was well written, and probably a good tome depending on what you are looking for.However, for me, I guess it was just the wrong book at the wrong time. I found it to be way too dry.... dare I say a bit boring, and I thought it sucked some of the fun and the life out of the subject matter. When you spend countless pages trying to logically explain how the universe can be looked at as a unified whole, it's just taking things a bit too far. Now, I guess that since this book is geared toward the logical Western mind, it makes sense to focus on logical arguments, I just felt that this book was overwrought intellectually, without enough consideration paid to the intuitive side of things.I would have rather had a bit more left to the imagination, especially given the subject matter.

At the same time, I recognize that this is meant as an academic work, so I guess it doesn't make sense to expect the tone to be more juicy. And, to be fair, I stopped reading about halfway through, so take my review with a grain of salt. Perhaps one day Ill come back to this book when the time is right for me, but for now I didn't feel like finishing it just for the sake of finishing it.
... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (17)

Amazed and Delighted
"Clean" is a true gem. When I first read the book I thought to myself sure, sure baking soda and lemon is going to do the job of the store bought cleansers I've been using for years. Well imagine my surprise when I gave it a half-hearted whirl and soon found myself surrounded by a wonderfully fresh and spotlessly glistening bathroom and kitchen. And here is the part I really enjoyed, that overbearing scent of the cleanser I normally use wasn't there. I'm sold. I've mixed up my own batches of cleansers, refer to the book on a regular basis and am converted. Thanks to Michael DeJong's book not only is my home bright and clean and I am saving money but I can help save the environment.

Pleasure for Mind , Home and Planet
I keep a copy of this book on my coffee table in my country house. I always enjoy it when my guests are curious and I can share this precious gem of a book with them. The author is genuine and exremely knowledgeable.
I have incorporated several of the recipies and they work without hurting me or our planet. I have purchased several copies to give to friends when I visit their homes.

Save Our Planet while doing the drudgery you have to do anyway!
"CLEAN" is an amazing example of how each of us can take responsibility for our environment--home, neighborhood, city, state, country, planet.It provides easy and safe recipes that replace commercial products, but more than that, it's creating a grassroots environmental movement.We all hear about Global Warming and figure, "What can I do?" or even worse, "the government will fix it."Environmentalism begins at home, and "CLEAN" is a great guidebook to get us started--if everyone exchanged just ONE commercial product for ONE "CLEAN" recipe, the process of de-toxing our planet would begin.And we all have the ingredients in our homes already--baking soda, salt, lemon juice, white vinegar and borax (OK, so maybe you don't have borax, but believe it or not--it's in every grocery store right beside the commercial laundry detergents and bleach!) You have to clean anyway, so why not do it in a way that is safer for your family, pets, neighbors and the other billions of people who share our planet!

Clean and Green!
This is a great book.Fun to read with fabulously fresh methods for cleaning the house.It truly is a ZEN experience.I read it quickly and refer to it often.Fully recommend it!!!

An Environmentally Sound Book with Added Humor to Boot!
This book is precious! I can't tell you enough how much I enjoyed reading it and learning how to clean things with environmentally sound and non-toxic products. The format of the Book is a perfect size and easy to look up what exact problem I have and how to solve it. I recommend this book highly to all the neat freaks and sloppy folks one and all. Can't wait till the second edition. ... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (79)

I wish I had written this book!
The author and I come from similar backgrounds. I was the make-up wearing, nice suit, skinny tie, blue haired, New Wave punk from the eighties. I come from a very similar lifestyle and I find it refreshing that I'm not the only Old-School Punk to find the ways of the Buddha. In hindsight, the punk days of the eighties were really not what they seemed to the outside observer looking in.

A previous opinion mentioned how they did not like Mr. Warner's "asides" that are found throughout the book. I found them refreshing in that, they reminded me so much of me.

I refuse to give away the particulars of this book because that's not fair to the author, whom I plan on seeing while he is in Atlanta in March 07. But I will say this.

Where you the crazed rocker? Inside a truly good person that no one understood? All the worlds religions seem to get you down and browbeat you over their idea of what's healthy and normal. Are you now searching for your "way." Buddhism is a no frills plain, sometimes boring, yet totally rewarding "way." Zazen is one of these ways. This book Hardcore Zen, and his followup Sit Down and Shut Up: Punk Rock Commentaries on Buddha, God, Truth, Sex, Death, and Dogen's Treasury of the Right Dharma Eye are the perfect introductions for our type of human. Forget what the hard-#ss reviewers say. They've never had the fun we have. THIS IS THE BOOK YOU WANT!

If I was as well versed in Buddhism (hopefully someday) as this "Punk Monk"... This is the book I would have written. Rock On Brad! Hope to see you in Atlanta!

Less about Zen; more about Brad Warner's ego
I've read Hardcore Zen twice. The first read-through last year left kind of a bad taste in my mouth.My overall impression was that even though Brad really did have some good information and interesting experiences to share, the book suffered strongly from his inability to get out of his own way while sharing it.A recent rereading hasn't changed my initial impression, which is that much of what the book was intended to convey is eclipsed by Warner's need to show off, criticize, and name drop.From beginning to end, Hardcore Zen is a vehicle for Brad's ego far more than it is a vehicle for the Dharma, and that's really unfortunate, as there is a lot of value in what Brad is trying to say.

I haven't met Brad Warner in person, so I don't want to make an all-encompassing statement about his overall personality, but in Hardcore Zen he comes off as an immature jerk.That's a fairly undesirable attribute to appear in a biographical work in general, but in a book about Zen Buddhism, which emphasizes a philosophy of "no self", it's a rather glaring flaw.

He's foulmouthed, judgmental, antagonistic, and seems to enjoy insulting other people in the Buddhist community who he disagrees with. I was shocked to find out that Warner is 40-something, as his writing displays a maturity level that reads more like early 20s.I don't have a problem with obscenity or sarcasm where it has value and meaning, but the"I'm a Zen priest who says %&@$" angle loses its novelty fairly quickly.More importantly, the book is pervasive with a "Zen is about questioning everything, but people who don't practice like I do are stupid and not worth your time" attitude, which I find a harsh contrast with the overall message that Warner is trying to get across.

To sum up, I do think Brad's experiences are worth reading, but his attitude does not inspire confidence in the credibility of his information.

Better than I would have expected
I've had a superficial interest in most religions for maybe twenty years, but recently, I've had some experiences and read some things that have drawn me deeper toward Buddhism. I've found a lot of so-called introductions to be hard to process; Zen riddles and cryptic masters and nonsequiter stories and names and dates and so on; I know that the koans and oxymorons are all part of it, but a lot of the authors come across as evasive or lofty. I'm pretty well read and well education, I'm a focused and voracious reader, and the material's not totally new to me. But in a lot of writing, just hasn't grabbed me and in some ways I felt like I didn't know any more than when I started. It's one thing when you read an expert's perspective on what they've mastered, even if you don't get it you can still be inspired or something, but when it comes to philosophy and spirituality, I don't have a lot of patience for what comes across as evasive answers to direct questions. I'm sure that's a weakness, but I am who I am...

If someone who knew nothing about Christianity came to you to find out more about it, you could spend hours on Jesus and the Old Testament and the 10 Commandments and Revelations, but it's not impossible that when you were done, the person could say do you, "OK, but what's it like to be a Christian?" You could not completely describe Christianity to someone without bringing up the Holy Trinity or original sin or the resurrection, but that's also doesn't describe what it is to be a Christian. Brad Warner's book does give a little info and history on Zen Buddhism, but it also answers the question, "OK, but what's it like to be a Zen Buddhist?"

Zen is a philosophy, and when it's presented as it is here, it's a real, pragmatic philosophy, a philosophy of direct action and moral thought. It's fun enough to read that you don't want to put it down but serious enough that you really ought to at some key points. I'd recommend this as a first read for anyone interested in learning more about Zen, I wish it had been my first. It's not comprehensive, nor is it meant to be. By focusing on one person's view on what Zen means, how they practice it, and how it has affected their life, I've learned more than all the other books on Buddhism I've read, at least partly because I wasn't ready for them. I know that when I reread some of the stuff I was first exposed to, it'll make a whole lot more sense now; it's not that my work is done, but at least I have a foothold. (And his next book has been a lot more difficult, but it's been very valuable to me, too.)

Loaded words, fallacious arguments... beware.
The problem with this book was the author's arrogance and desire to persuade.At times I wanted to throw the book across the room--many of the words he uses are completely loaded, and he often employs fallacious arguments.Reviews that say this book is not "sugar coated" are wrong.Yeah, he tries to be in-your-face about things, but the language he uses is meant to appeal to emotion rather than objectivity.I hate to bring up the chapter on psychedelic drugs, but I think it is where his lack of objectivity shows the most:

Take the following quote into consideration:

"The notion that you can take a drug to get enlightened is as sensible as thinking you can take off the weight gained from 20 years of shoveling nothing but oreos, pringles, and big macs down your gullet by swallowing a few miracle diet pills.It's big money for big business, but if you're eating three meals a day at Mickey D's, you're going to be taking up two seats on a 747 regardless of how many pills you pop"

Warner turns a stance against drug use into a rant about fast food, and uses loaded words and phrases that try to make the reader think that any opinion other than Warner's is just plan ridiculous.Second, the analogy he uses does not fit at all.Even if it did, you can't use an analogy to prove a point.I didn't see many arguments that appealed to logic rather than emotion.It was all about his personal story.It would be just as easy for someone convinced they found enlightenment through drug use to tell their personal account and sound convincing.

Warner should just tell us how he found enlightenment, and he should stay on topic and avoid telling people how not to live.He should also avoid the use of persuasion and appeal to emotion.The Zen searcher in me desires a map of one person's journey toward enlightenment, not indoctrination attempts.

Do I think Warner has found his own Zen enlightenment?Quite possibly.That doesn't make him a good teacher and it doesn't mean he has all the answers.What he says can be misleading.He seems to assume that what worked for him should work for everyone, and what didn't shouldn't.I give him 2 stars for his underlying understanding of zen, but take away 3 for his poor teaching of it.

You can handle the truth
If you want to learn about Zen from someone who grew up in the same culture as you and speaks like you, then this is the book for you.I could not put it down and actually read it twice.What more can I say? ... Read more

Book Description
When life seems to be full of doubt and uncertainty we tend to look for a source of inspiration: what will happen in the future? What about my health, the children? What will happen if I make this decision and not that one? This is how the traditional tarot is often used, to satisfy a longing to know about the past and future. This Osho Zen Tarot focuses instead on gaining an understanding of the here and now. It is a system based on the wisdom of Zen, a wisdom that says events in the outer world simply reflect in the outer world simply reflect our own thoughts and feelings, even though we ourselves might be unclear about what those thoughts and feelings are. So it helps us to turn our attention away from outside events so we can find a new clarity of understanding in our innermost hearts. The conditions and states of mind portrayed by the contemporary images on the cards are all shown as being essentially transitional and transformative. The text in the accompanying book helps to interpret and understand the images in the simple, straightforward and down to earth language of Zen. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (87)

A beautiful way to communicate
I have used Osho Tarot for a couple years now.I am always amazed how right on each one is.I use tarot to communicate with my higher, expanded self.Things come up in life, and the me that is limited by space and time does not always know fully what I need to know.My higher self always does, and so I approach the cards as a medium of connecting with this self.I love these cards because they are about living, not about predicting.I use other cards, but these by far are the best.

Osho Zen Tarot
I was introduced to these cards by Mary Phelan (telepathicTV), and wanted my own set.I have been a traditional Rider-Waite user. Nevertheless, Mary's readings opened the Zen path to me in a new light.I am still getting to know them, but the wonderful artwork and interpretations of the Osho Zen Tarot have given me several introspective hours already. I would recommend this deck to students of Tarot, or as a tool to help awaken the spirit with Zen philosophy.

beautiful artwork
This is the most beautiful deck I have ever owned. I am weary of using systems that reinforce the heterosexual patriarchal conceptions of being and hence usually use decks created by women such as Mother Goddess Tarot, Daughters of the Moon that have an androgynous "lovers" card, but this deck is too beatiful too pass up. It's best used as a daily meditation as it is not 'tarot' in the traditional sense.

The most Beautiful Tarot Deck I have ever seen!
When I first saw this deck, I was immediately drawn to it and captivated by it's beauty.When I got my own Osho Zen Tarot deck, and I first held it, it just felt right, I felt connected to it.I love using this deck and every spread is just perfect.It is a Zen deck, so it tends to focus more on the now.The interpretation and insight into each card is backed by a lot of great wisdom.Sometimes, I'll choose 1 card from the deck as something to meditate on for the day.This deck always leaves me feeling wonderful and connected to everything.It's amazing.I'm sure you won't regret purchasing this deck.In fact, I've tried a couple other decks, that are more widely used, and I feel absolutely nothing from them.There's just something about this deck that just feels very positive and good.It's the only deck I use.=)

An interesting variant
This deck is well-packaged and well-made with beautiful images.It is not just another Rider-Waite variant, but has been carefully designed around its theme of the teachings of Zen Buddhism.I thoroughly recommend it as an interesting change of pace from RW decks, especially for those who are interested in practicing mindfulness and developing self-awareness. ... Read more

Book Description
When books about Zen Buddhism began appearing in Western languages just over a half-century ago, there was no interest whatsoever in the role of ritual in Zen.Indeed, what attracted Western readers' interest was the Zen rejection of ritual.The famous 'Beat Zen' writers were delighted by the Zen emphasis on spontaneity as opposed to planned, repetitious action, and wrote inspirationally about the demythologized, anti-ritualized spirit of Zen.Quotes from the great Zen masters supported this understanding of Zen, and led to the fervor that fueled the opening of Zen centers throughout the West.Once Western practitioners in these centers began to practice Zen seriously, however, they discovered that zazen - Zen meditation - is a ritualized practice supported by centuries-old ritual practices of East Asia.Although initially in tension with the popular anti-ritual image of ancient Zen masters, interest in Zen ritual has increased along with awareness of its fundamental role in the spirit of Zen.Eventually, Zen practitioners would form the idea ofno-mind, or the open and awakened state of mind in which ingrained habits of thinking give way to more receptive, direct forms of experience.This notion provides a perspective from which ritual could gain enormous respect as a vehicle to spiritual awakening, and thus this volume seeks to emphasize the significance of ritual in Zen practice.Containing 9 articles by prominent scholars about a variety of topics, including Zen rituals kinhin and zazen, this volume covers rituals from the early Chan period to modern Japan. Each chapter covers key developments that occurred in the Linji/Rinzai and Caodon/ Soto schools of China and Japan, describing how Zen rituals mold the lives and characters of its practitioners, shaping them in accordance with the ideal of Zen awakening.This volume is a significant step towards placing these practices in a larger historical and analytical perspective. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Rite On!
Finally the study of Zen here in the States is coming of age, and this excellent book is a key contribution in that regard. Consisting of an assortment of interesting and scholarly articles by various writers, it is something of a successor to Heine and Wright's prior collections "The Zen Canon" and "Zen Classics" though it shifts the focus from Zen texts to Zen ritual praxis. Years ago I would've considered the very idea an oxymoron, since Zen has for decades been presented as spontaneous and anti-ritualistic--the reason I and others had this skewed impression are fully addressed herein, but the writers spend less time polemically slamming predecessors in the field and instead concentrate their efforts positively in exploring just what Zen rituals are and how they function in the Zen tradition, subtly overturning earlier misrepresentations in the process. This is one of the few studies of the subject that properly addresses what I actually saw Zen temples doing in Japan when I lived there back in the 1990's, too, and was something of a breath of fresh air in that regard--not abstract idealizations but concrete actualities. In fact, with the exception of the second article which looks at Chan historically in China, the overriding emphasis of this book is on Zen in Japan, with a fairly even balance between Soto and Rinzai Zen traditions along with extensive considerations of the role of Obaku Zen in their development. Each article is quite detailed but with larger implications, and the tone throughout is pleasantly academic and accessibly readable. I highly recommend this fine volume to anyone even remotely interested in Zen Buddhism: if you're an old hand at the topic you will surely find these articles every bit as fascinating and informative as I did, and if you're a beginner they'll correct for much of the misinformation out there in print (D.T. Suzuki especially) and nip such problems in the bud. One hand clapping, two thumbs up!

The following articles are included in this book:
"Introduction: Rethinking Ritual Practice in Zen Buddhism" by Dale S. Wright
1. "Ritual in Japanese Zen Buddhism" by T. Griffith Foulk
2. "Chan Rituals of the Abbots' Ascending the Dharma Hall to Preach" by Mario Poceski
3. "Buddhist Rituals for Protecting the Country in Medieval Japan: Myoan Eisai's 'Regulations of the Zen School'" by Albert Welter
4. "Is Dogen's Eiheiji Temple 'Mt. T'ien-t'ung East'?: Geo-Ritual Perspectives on the Transition from Chinese Ch'an to Japanese Zen" by Steven Heine
5. "Zazen as an Enactment Ritual" by Taigen Dan Leighton
6. "Women and Dogen: Rituals Actualizing Empowerment and Healing" by Paula K.R. Arai
7. "Invocation of the Sage: The Ritual to Glorify the Emperor" by Michel Mohr
8. "Meditation in Motion: Textual Exegesis in the Creation of Ritual" by David E. Riggs
9. "Dharma Transmission in Theory and Practice" by William M. Bodiford ... Read more

Book Description
Every day an "ah." A jolt of insight, a nugget of wisdom. Words that cast the world in a whole new light. Based on the bestselling book The Little Zen Companion, the perennially enlightening Zen Calendar features hundreds of quotes, koans, parables, and poems that embody the Zen mind. Like this from Pablo Neruda: When did the lemons learn the same creed as the sun? When did smoke learn how to fly? And the Diamond Cutter Sutra: Do not grasp truth, do not grasp untruth, and do not grasp that which is not untruth. It's the Zen of ancient sages, the Zen of poets and musicians, mystics and philosophers. Paths cannot be taught, they can only be taken.Zen saying ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

waste of money, time and thought
i never thought such a calendar which was supposed to give me so much inner peace and insight, could make me so anxious and furious.everyday when i look at the calender i think, wow, i can't believe i spent money on this.today's quote was "we boil at different degrees."i just feel as though there's no bang or epiphany after reading these quotes.if you enjoy it, good for you, to each his own.but if you want something of this style which is more insightful and something we can all understand, i recommend you purchasing "insights from the dalai lama."

zen calendar
It is nice to start your day with an unknown quote, haiku, proverb or a zen story that sometimes make absolutely no sense, It is Zen alright and every morning I look forward to turning the page of this calendar. When someone happens to pass by and read the daily saying their face expression is another Zen moment!

Daily Mindfulness
I've always admired Eastern religious philosophies but being a typical busy person,I could never find the time to "sit" and meditate. The Zen Calendar gives you the opportunity to do this. Every day there's quote for you to mull over, for a mintue or for the day. I've been buying the Zen Calendar for the past 5 years and I save my favorite sayings to use again and again. So if you can't find the time yet feel that you want a minute meditation, I strongley recommed the Zen Calendar

The buzzing fly deepens the silence of the sunlit room
I have this calendar for 2007 and now have the 2008 edition ready to go.It is in my cubicle where co-workers frequently stop by to read it.No one seems to get it.They think it is silly and meaningless.I find deep meaning in nearly every saying.It is a nice way to come to one's self in the morning.I greatly enjoy it.

Some timely wisdom
I've bought this calendar three years in a row and it's great!Lots of timely wisdom, parables and quizzicle zenisms which keep me inspired all day long.

Jodi
www.fengshuimaster.com.au ... Read more

Book Description
Zen Training is a comprehensive handbook for zazen, seated meditation practice, and an authoritative presentation of the Zen path. The book marked a turning point in Zen literature in its critical reevaluation of the enlightenment experience, which the author believes has often been emphasized at the expense of other important aspects of Zen training. In addition, Zen Training goes beyond the first flashes of enlightenment to explore how one lives as well as trains in Zen. The author also draws many significant parallels between Zen and Western philosophy and psychology, comparing traditional Zen concepts with the theories of being and cognition of such thinkers as Heidegger and Husserl. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

Science Shakes Hands with Religion
Concrete methods on how to use your body to influence your mind. Zen is purposely confusing at times to shock you out of your habitual way of consciousness... confusion with purpose. This book sets the stage for any beginner to start studying zen.

How to practice
You won't get this kind of instruction even if you are lucky enough to have a teacher. Zen teaching tends to glance off the practical and let you stumble around looking for your own way. This book -- and only this book, of all the books I have read or considered reading -- imparts practical, step by step instruction on exactly how to practice zazen.

The three jewels are buddha, dharma, and sangha. Sekida cannot hand these jewels to you on a silver platter, but he can spare you many frustrating hours on the cushion if you're beginning -- or continuing -- your practice.

If you're serious about zazen, shove those guided meditation and newage [sic] music CDs to the bottom of your wish list, and buy this book.

My qualifications: Four years of daily practice, one year of practice with a sangha. That parses out to three years of stubbornly stumbling around on my own. I recommend a little less stumbling and a lot more practice.

Best Book on Zen Meditation
You won't find these in any other book: explanation of how to create the necessary tension in the tanden to initiate samadhi (a definite prerequisite for that state); and an explanation of awareness based on the "three nen actions" involving reflections on immediate prior conciousness resulting in a continuity of awareness thus creating the illusion of a substantial unchanging self.However, I do agree with a previous reviewer who recommends the practice of Qigong as an important support for meditation.Qigong will most efficiently and powerfully supply the energy the tanden requires to produce samadhi.You may not find these two disciplines (Zen and Qigong) melded anywhere, which is a pity since they compliment each other perfectly and accelerate progress on the path.Therefore, Sekida's book together with "Energy Medicine..." (Hiew/Yap) and "Opening the Energy Gates..." (Frantzis) will provide the foundation for Samadhi.

Best zen book I've ever read
I learned to do zazen from this book a long time ago. While I now have had a couple of teachers, the approach to zazen that I learned from Sekida has served me well on this path. I'll probably wind up teaching zen myself someday, and this is the book that I will be giving to my students. All of the other philosophical and historical books about zen are certainly useful, so we all know where the tradition came from, but this is the only really clear book about how to do zen meditation that I have ever read. Everything that Sekida explains about the long-term results of meditation, from off-sensation (which Sekida describes wonderfully) on to positive and absolute samadhi, I can verify that all of it is correct. There's no mumbo-jumbo here. For anybody who really wants to try zen meditation but cannot find a teacher (or doesn't want a teacher, which is also fine) then this is the book you should be reading and re-reading.

The ONLY book you need on zen
Mr. Katsuki Sekida was a ZEN master who wrote a training manual for ZEN that is comprehensive; and Mr Sekida taught zen at Robert Aitken's zendo (the diamond sangha.

Here is a list of Zen books I recommend.

"Zen Training: Methods And Philosophy" Katsuki Sekida



"The Three Pillars OfZen" Phillip Kapleau
"Zen: Lessons From A Modern Master" Katsuki Sekida
"Taking The Path Of Zen" Robert Aitken
"Zen Meditation in Plain English" John Daishin Buksbazen

I rate this book head and shoulders above the rest because it is better than the rest in my opinion.

Those five books are the only Zen books I can recommend in a good conscience.

Am I 100% happy with this book? NO. The Author spoke Japanese as his first language; so English was his second language, and you will find some words and phrases that do not make sence at first. You will have to dig for the gold nuggets in this book; so please be patient to read and re-read the book until you get what your personal teacher is trying to teach you.

The ONLY two ZEN books in my private library are "Zen Training: Metrhods And Philosophy: by Katsuki Sekida, and "Taking The Path Of Zen" Robert Aitken.

I see there is some debate whether Katsuki Sekida was a zen master or not.

I DO remember reading in one of Robert Aitken's books that he wanted someone to teach zen to members of the Diamond Sangha; and he asked his friend and zen master Nagakawa Soen to come to Hawai'i to tech Zen. Mr. Soen was too frail to make the voyage to Hawai'i; so zenji Soen sent Katsuki Sekida to teach zen to those attending the Diamond Sangha.

I can not imagine a zen master would send a teacher to teach zen UNLESS the teacher was qualified to teach.

Lastly; some people mention reading the works of D.T. Suzuki.

Mr. Sukuki may have been a zen master; but in my opinion; Mr. Suzuki was NOT qualified to teach Zen.

I sincerely believe this book will help you attain the state called "no mind". It did for me! ... Read more

Book Description
When it comes to weight loss, the emphasis today is shifting away from fad diets and compulsive workouts toward sane, sensible techniques that incorporate both the mind and the body. This is the first book to apply the 2,500-year-old principles of Zen Buddhism to the modern struggle with the vicious cycle of dieting, losing, and regaining weight.From a Buddhist perspective, overeating is a disorder of desire.This book will teach readers how to find freedom from eating problems and the tyranny of desire that triggers them.Filled with concrete, practical exercises and the wisdom of the ages, The Zen of Eating provides, at last, an alternative to ineffective diet programs, products, and pills. ... Read more

Customer 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.

Thought provoking and very helpful
It has been a long time since I have savored a book as much as I have been this one.I hope I do not repeat what other positive reviews have said, and if I do, I apologize.

I liked the combination of using real life examples rather than antidotes for showing how people behave and how they can change for the positive, and let go of negative desires.I say negative because as the author wisely notes on page 58 "Letting go doesn't mean annihilating, rejecting feelings, or pretending that you don't have strong feelings". Or on page 62 "Letting go doesn't mean any of these desires disappear. It means that they no longer have control over you". The author notes that we can still like a certain ice cream or treat and enjoy it, but that the treat doesn't have to become an obsession.But more a take it or leave it way of eating. And that once we let go of the habitual desire that food even begins to taste better.

My husband and I grew up in the 40-50's and he remarked that growing up he often was hungry which is why he probably eats "stuff" because he wants to feel full and not wanting.In the late 40's when I was a toddler a sibling often stole food so we could eat.So I to grew up wondering if I would ever not have to worry about food.It has only been since I have been serious about finding out how to let go of the fear-desire issue that my weight started to drop, and I became healthier.

Its also interesting how the author explains how often people drink, smoke, eat wrong because of some issue of fear, be it speaking up when someone says something bad, or when we are faced with a challenge we are afraid of, or because we are afraid of the unknown, like being rejected.

This is a thoughtful and helpful book and one I am so pleased I bought.

Graceful and difficult
I'm going back to read this book again. Kabatznick writes with the equanimity that convinces me she knows what she is talking about. The cornerstone of her advice is so easy to say and so difficult to make part of your life: Desires arise, and they pass away; watch they rise, do not pig out, and watch them pass away. Of course it is difficult, as is anything worth achieving. ... Read more

Amazon.com
If you can imagine Zen Existentialism, Not Always So is it. Part instruction manual for Zen practice and part philosophical meditation, Shunryu Suzuki's teachings emphasize being-in-the-world. He does not point toward a singular enlightenment-event as a burst into higher consciousness. Rather, he suggests a more experiential enlightenment that finds meaning in a full awareness of the present. For example: "If you go to the rest room, there is a chance for enlightenment. When you cook, there is a chance for enlightenment. When you clean the floor, there is a chance to attain enlightenment."

Shunryu Suzuki was an important emissary of Zen Buddhism to the United States. Establishing a Zen center in San Francisco in the 1960s, he attracted many noted pupils, including this book's editor, Edward Espe Brown. In fact, Not Always So is Brown's collection of Suzuki's teachings during his last years, in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

No doubt some readers will want to wrestle with the often paradoxical nature of Zen teachings. And those from the Western philosophical tradition may find vast differences between the Western system that takes its cue from Descartes' cogito and the Eastern one that emphasizes the destruction of the ego. Says Suzuki: "It is just your mind that says you are here and I am there, that's all. Originally we are one with everything." While the book does not wrestle with cultural-philosophical differences, it is nevertheless a good introduction to Zen. Suzuki's teachings tend to flow from simple stories, usually drawn from his own experiences. It's almost entirely free of the jargon that clutters many books on Buddhism, and the teachings are communicated with clarity and brevity. --Eric de PlaceBook Description

Practising the true spirit of Zen.

Not Always So is based on Shunryu Suzuki's lectures and is framed in his own inimitable, allusive, paradoxical style, rich with unexpected and off–centre insights. Suzuki knew he was dying at the time of the lectures, which gives his thoughts an urgency and focus even sharper than in the earlier book.

In Not Always So Suzuki once again voices Zen in everyday language with the vigour, sensitivity, and buoyancy of a true friend. Here is support and nourishment. Here is a mother and father lending a hand, but letting you find your own way. Here is guidance which empowers your freedom (or way–seeking mind), rather than pinning you down to directions and techniques. Here is teaching which encourages you to touch and know your true heart and to express yourself fully, teaching which is not teaching from outside, but a voice arising in your own being.

Customer Reviews (27)

Short essays for more advanced students
I am very new to Zen and have read several books on the subject.I have practiced zazen for a little while, so I am, by no means, advanced on the subject of Zen and zazen meditation.This book is geared more for those who are more advanced into the world of Zen and Buddhism than I am as there are a lot of things written that I really don't understand (I know that's somewhat Zen in and of itself), but seriously there are better books for beginners.Hopefully in a few years I can pick this book back up and get more out of it.

That being said, the essays are short and wonderful and even though I didn't "get" all of them, there were a lot of great little nuggets inside.For the price, this book is packed with great stuff, I'm just not sure it's for beginners.

Just sitting will "Kill the Buddha!"-- not reading about him
On page 110, it is written: "Because we do not cling to any particular standard for thinking, for us there is no true way and not false." Is that not a meaty philosophical idea that could lead to endless intellectual discussions about the Buddha etc. etc.?His life will be prolonged in your mind and get in the way of your practice.
The book does end on what Zen really "is"; "So the point is just to sit..." (page 152). "Even though our practice is not better than a frog's, we continue to sit." (page 151). "Just sit for the the sake of zazen" (page 152).
But you won't make a best-seller with: Just sit. Just sit. Just sit., page after page. Sazuki's best-seller "Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind" was already too much more than enough to get across the simple idea that Zen is what happens to you when you sit still and follow or count your breaths. And what happens to you cannot really be put into words and ideas.
I give the book four stars for the interesting personal stories, philosophical and psychological discussions. But for the real practice itself-- sitting and meditating in Zen fashion--it was entirely unnecessary.

Be a frog...
Outstanding book with insight into a true Zen master. Written after the passing of Suzuki Roshi by one of his students, it is an insight into a beautiful man.

Not always so is a simple book with a single teisho or talk every couple of pages. This allows you to read one talk and digest it without having to delve into any serious brain bending. Suzuki Roshi presents the most complex ideas of Zen in a refreshing and accessible way. I enjoyed reading the 1-2 pages and then going to sit, just as if he gave me a personal teisho.

It is a thin book, but would you expect anything less from someone who could say one word and hold everything in it?

If you are new to Zen or an old master there is probably something wonderful to find in here for you.

Heart-felt truths
Ed Brown definitely knows Master Suzuki's heart.
And he presents the warm heart of his master in a logical and progressive ordering of a few of Suzuki's lectures.

After 30 years of daily meditation (15 in the style of Monk Dogen) and always failing to reach calmness of mind in every session,
a book like this gives a nugget of hope.

For example:
specifically, on page 6 of the Chapter on "Calmness of Mind," it offers:
"Exhaling, you gradually fade into emptiness--empty, white paper."

This is as clear as it gets;
the essence of the connection between breath, body, mind and emptiness.
Thank you very much.

Other concepts are also explained nicely.

For example:
Suzuki explains the meaning of the koan of "Jumping Off the 100-foot Pole,"
starting at page 16.(Myself, I've never really understood this one.I've always pictured myself reaching the top of the Pole and then trying to decide what to do next.)
Suzuki explains that this is precisely where I make my big mistake--stopping at the top of the pole and thinking.He says that the secret is just to say "Yes!" and jump off from there--forget the top of the pole and extend your practice.

One last example:
In the Chapter "Stand Up by the Ground" (page 139)
Suzuki explains "Immo,"
which can also mean a questioning, "What is this?"
A very subtle point here.
"What" or "It" is both something very definite ( "What" is "it"? may refer to that specific table right over there, and at the same time something beyond description and comprehension, maybe this table has only one leg and functions more like a chair and is merely drawn by an artist to symbolize some basic human emotion.)
Oh boy, my mind really runs wild with kind of "stuff."

Maybe Ed Brown will write a new book, giving his own commentary on these concepts.
Didn't Zen successors always write commentaries on scriptures?

Well, maybe "not always so."
Yet this book is like a Zen scripture.

Thank you very much Mr Brown.

A great gift of wisdom
If you are truly after understanding the nature of Zen Buddhism this book will be the greatest gift ever. Infinite wisdom of this man will touch you with every phrase, not colored, not wrapped in unnecessary complications, simple, deep and true. This is a book to read many times and to feel lucky time after time. ... Read more

Book Description
Zen of Stars - trans-dimensional epic narrated as a soul-expanding adventure revealing profound discoveries awaiting us - shows our true Cosmic origin and destiny. This book frees mankind, one soul at a time.

The narrative by the "Master of The Light" transforms the reader into a seer. This guided writing, of unmatched proportions, is essentially mind-altering. The soul is time traveler and master of its own destiny. St.Clair introduces a new and multi-dimensional mythology, opening the inner passage to the unknowable in ourselves.

Core message: 2012 will see the merging of new realities, challenging us to adapt to these changes. The world we live in today is a disconnection from our true past. Zen of Stars clarifies everything, from hidden doctrines to unsolved mysteries, as it discloses the purpose of Cosmos, while showing the futures of planet earth.

We are psychic beings inhabiting a physical reality. The physical world is the vehicle for movement through time and space, and the psychic is the journey. Reality evolves from the invisible world.

The 21st Century has swept to its surface a visionary, one of the foremost creative minds, an astrophysicist who speaks of the most fundamental issues facing humanity. The origin of his work is a mystery; brought to you by a source St.Clair calls his ET guidance. In this book of art and science-fiction he addresses what he terms our relationship with the invisible world.

We write our own destiny by interacting with the greater forces of Cosmos. St.Clair asks: "If we can predict the outcome, can we change it?" He explains how we change the outcome for ourselves by using intelligent compassion.

This book - a spiritual thriller - transforms our world.

Please visit his website at www.zenofstars.org. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Zen of Stars by Michael St.Clair
The books Zen of Stars and Forseenby Michael St.Clair have made it possible for me to see into the future
Profoundly informative essential reading
I could not put the books down until they were finished
I have been changed by these writings
Sally Williams
Melbourne
Australia

Zen For Your Soul
All I can say about this book is WOW!!I stumbled upon Micheal St.Clair by accident (or rather synchronicity) via an online video, and I was instantly hooked and bought the book here.This book will take you on a journey that afterwards you'll be asking yourself whether you are awake, sleep-walking or dreaming...What impressed me about the author was his precociousness as a child and his depth of knowledge to how the universe works.I just don't understand how astrologers do it; however, after reading this book, I realized that Micheal St.Clair is truly gifted beyond belief.If you have pondered, wondered and searched for answers your entire life, then this is one book that will provide the quantum-leap (jump-start) to a higher level of understanding and knowledge.

Knowing Your Truth Is In The Stars
St.Clair si most definetly a Magi, and has broken through the veil of duality and illusion...and in his book "Zen Of Stars" he tries to help others in doing the same...besides explaining astrology and earth changes that are happening and that possibly "could" occur....he weaves a most wonderful picture of his life, telling how spirit has always been a part...he also explains where we all come from, which of course is "Cosmos" or the "Stars"....I would recommend this book highly, especially for anyone on a spiritual path, who is looking for answers...the most important one is that they must look within...

Zen Of The Stars
This is a must read reference and motivator for those on the path of evolution. Zen of the Stars IS evolution, condensed and expressed so as to sweep up the reader and empower him/her to their own necessary purpose and work. I read it in a day, simply because I could not put it down. I have recommended it to my spiritual posse and we are all quoting lines and reading pages aloud. Watch the video of St. Clair on line! If that doesn't inspire you to get the book, you are sleep walking. It is time to WAKE UP!!!!!

Zen of Stars! - Will make you think.
This book def. woke up my brain! I keep reading it over and over. Awesome. ... Read more

Book Description
Inside the intriguing world of poker lies a fascinating exercise in strategy and extreme concentration--many of the same principles that underpin the one-thousand-year-old philosophy of Zen spirituality. Zen and the Art of Poker is the first book to apply Zen theories to America's most popular card game, presenting tips that readers can use to enhance their game. Among the more than one hundred rules that comprise this book, readers will learn to:

* Make peace with folding

* Use inaction as a weapon

* Make patience a central pillar of their strategy

* Pick their times of confrontation

Using a concise and spare style, in the tradition of Zen practices and rituals, Zen and the Art of Poker traces a parallel track connecting the two disciplines by giving comments and inspirational examples from the ancient Zen masters to the poker masters of today.Download Description
"Inside the intriguing world of poker lies a fascinating exercise in strategy and extreme concentration--many of the same principles that underpin the one-thousand-year-old philosophy of Zen spirituality. Zen and the Art of Poker is the first book to apply Zen theories to America's most popular card game, presenting tips that readers can use to enhance their game. Among the more than one hundred rules that comprise this book, readers will learn to:* Make peace with folding* Use inaction as a weapon* Make patience a central pillar of their strategy* Pick their times of confrontationUsing a concise and spare style, in the tradition of Zen practices and rituals, Zen and the Art of Poker traces a parallel track connecting the two disciplines by giving comments and inspirational examples from the ancient Zen masters to the poker masters of today." ... Read more

Customer Reviews (28)

Not a poker book type of book
Im not a big fan of poker books. They tend to be very dry and difficult to apply the specific theories to the game. This book is simply explains another way to look at the game. It is very easy to apply to the game after reading. It is mostly a book about folding and how to fold well. When youre folding well, youre playing well. Folding well implies betting well. The book states this much more clearly. Overall a great book for any poker player.

A Fantastic, Game-Altering Book
This is not the best book to buy if you are just learning how to play poker (try Sklansky or Harrington), but if you are an advanced beginner or intermediate player, this book offers a whole new approach to the game that will radically improve your play. Most beginning players find themselves playing too many hands, and with disastrous results (hitting top pair with a weak kicker, or hitting second pair). This book's advice (Poker Rule #3) is that "If you've been folding a lot, for a long time in the game, and you're starting to think that maybe it's time you got in a played a few hands again... Keep folding." It counsels patience, emotional detachment, and selective confrontation. In a world of big egos, players on tilt, and WPT wannabees, this book will help you find a calmer, more profitable path.

For far more than poker...
This is the one book that I can read time and time again, and always learn something new depending on where I'm at in my poker career and my life. It's not a poker instructional book by any means. It's about you and who you are at the poker table -- but really, it's about who you are in your every day existence.

If you like to look inside and make yourself a better person, then this book addresses core issues that can help you excel. Let's face it, life is poker and poker is life. Larry Phillips encapsulates this beautifully. It will help you play better and it will help you live better, if you are willing to do the work and look at yourself honestly.

It's a quick read with much thought provoking insights on just abou every page. It is written very well.

Zen and the Art of Poker
This is a great book for the beginner to middle player skill level. It starts off like it may be for advanced players but with its redundant reminders of how to play certain types of hands and what to do in case scenarios it drills it into the player. Making it much easier to retain the information.

Must Read!!!!!!!
I have been playing poker professionally for a little over a year now and have read all different kinds of poker books. But this was the first one that really took into the importance of your mental state.If you want to read a book that is going to give you statistics and odds this isn't it.If your looking for something that is going to make you think more about your innerself and others at and away from the table this is a must read.By the way- I have never written a review before but I felt that this was a must for the serious or even part time player! ... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (8)

A Must HAVE for ZOMBIE Fanatics!
Both my husband and I read this book.The world makes so much more sense after reading this book.We loved it.

Zen? It reads more like a business manual
Sorry, I got this book as a lover of all things zombie. But after a few chapters, I just wasn't getting it. The author wrote this more like a business how-to guide than a true attempt at a faux-religious teaching.

I didn't even get halfway through it. Partly because I didn't feel like the author was a real zombie fan, just making money off of the Z phenomenon.

Zombie Zen
If the Tao of Pooh wasn't exactly your cup of tea, and you are looking to adopt a hilarious philosophy, The Zen of Zombie is for you. Zombie's don't negotiation, so neither should you. This is only one of the ways you can Zombie-fy yourself. This book is hilarious, I loved every word of it.

A self help book with brains (that you can sink your teeth into)!
While reading this book, a co-worker - who is addicted to any self-help book with "Zen" in the title - came up and started prattling in my ear. "Oh, a Zen book?"

"With zombies."

"W-w-well, is it serious?"

"Oh, no.It's a joke.Totally."

She picked up the book and started flipping through it.

"No, there's a lot in here that's pretty serious.I think it's humorous, but serious."

So I moaned "bbbrrrrrrraaaaaaains", lurched forward (slowly, of course) and bit her on the scalp.She laughed and left (my biting style needs work), thus not irritating me any more!Acting like a zombie really did help me achieve what I wanted!Thanks, The Zen of Zombie!

Illustrations Were Awesome
I purchased this book because I love the illustrations. The book is well written also. ... Read more

Book Description
A powerful, ten-second technique can change stress into calm, strength and a centered approach. The basis of The Ten Second Pause is using a single deep breath as a container for a specific thought.

This technique is simple to grasp, simple to use, simple to practice and simple to master. This technique can be used anywhere, anytime, by anyone and it's profound in its benefits. You'll find yourself able to do things that previously felt too painful or too difficult to attempt. You'll be able to calm and center yourself before an important meeting or conversation. You'll be able to change your basic attitudes about life, becoming calm and positive where before you may have been anxious or pessimistic.

Blending Eastern principles of breath awareness and mindfulness with Western principles of positive psychology, together they offer a powerful antidote to stress, procrastination and anxiousness. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Simple & Immediately Useful!
Unlike other self-help type books, this book really only has one main suggestion/idea and it is super simple to immediately implement. The purpose of the technique being to "center" and to become mindful. The author suggests 12 short phrases (or, "incantations" as they are referred to on the cover). The technique is to take a 10 second long breath--5 in, 5 out and to use the breath as a "container" for a specific thought. You think the first half of the phrase on the in breath and the second half on the out breath. An example:

(I am) (open to joy)

I started reading the book shortly after I got it last month and tried the technique that same day and have been using it in some form ever since. Really helpful and easy. I find all 12 phrases to be very useful and I can remember almost all of them at any one time.

As I read the book I thought, this book is giving me a skill that I will use for the rest of my life. It is essentially a tiny meditation technique that is MUCH more readily incorporated into one's daily life (especially a life that includes small children) than traditional, dedicated, more elaborate meditation practice.

This review is excerpted from my book blog, Molly Reads.

Serenity in a ten seconds
I have read many meditation books.Meditation sounds like a great idea, but with my hectic, stressful lifestyle and my ADD, I never do seem to get around to it.It just doesn't seem practical.This book offers a technique that is so practical.The technique can be used for any stressful situation, no matter how little time you have.Also it is something that I believe could be developed over time, a book to return to over and over.There are many wise little passages here.I have never written a review before, but I just had to share my enthusiasm for this little book!

Don't give away the beginning
Ten Zen Seconds could be ten pages long. After the meditations are listed and use suggestions made, the rest is fluff -- personal experiences about using the Zen Seconds. But that does not mean I condemn it -- oh contrary! In fact, I use them often. If simplicity is genius this is Einstein. A quiet moment in a frazzled world. What's not to love?

Great instructional book
This small book guides you through easy Zen breathing techniques and 'incantations.' Also, every step is followed by examples of how other people benefited which will help you decide how to apply these methods to your own unique life situation.

Don't bother purchasing this book
This is yet another pop psychology book.Bottom line is: take deep breaths to calm yourself down in most any situation--basic common sense.Don't bother spending your money on this book.Just go out and get some fresh air and breathe deep. ... Read more

Book Description
For many of us, the return of Zen conjures up images of rock gardens and gently flowing waterfalls. We think of mindfulness and meditation, immersion in a state of being where meaning is found through simplicity. Zen lore has been absorbed by Western practitioners and pop culture alike, yet there is a specific area of this ancient tradition that hasn’t been fully explored in the West. Now, in The Zen of Creativity, American Zen master John Daido Loori presents a book that taps the principles of the Zen arts and aesthetic as a means to unlock creativity and find freedom in the various dimensions of our existence. Loori dissolves the barriers between art and spirituality, opening up the possibility of meeting life with spontaneity, grace, and peace.

Zen Buddhism is steeped in the arts. In spiritual ways, calligraphy, poetry, painting, the tea ceremony, and flower arranging can point us toward our essential, boundless nature. Brilliantly interpreting the teachings of the artless arts, Loori illuminates various elements that awaken our creativity, among them still point, the center of each moment that focuses on the tranquility within; simplicity, in which the creative process is uncluttered and unlimited, like a cloudless sky; spontaneity, a way to navigate through life without preconceptions, with a freshness in which everything becomes new; mystery, a sense of trust in the unknown; creative feedback, the systematic use of an audience to receive noncritical input about our art; art koans, exercises based on paradoxical questions that can be resolved only through artistic expression. Loori shows how these elements interpenetrate and function not only in art, but in all our endeavors.

Beautifully illustrated and punctuated with poems and reflections from Loori’s own spiritual journey, The Zen of Creativity presents a multilayered, bottomless source of insight into our creativity. Appealing equally to spiritual seekers, artists, and veteran Buddhist practitioners, this book is perfect for those wishing to discover new means of self-awareness and expression—and to restore equanimity and freedom amid the vicissitudes of our lives.


From the Hardcover edition. ... Read more

Customer 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

Loori is a photographer who adopted Zen and established a monastery that is noted for its way of integrating Zen and art.He begins the book by telling the story of how he came to be a Zen Buddhist after being influenced by the great photographer Minor White.He then explains how to adopt several Zen practices to enable one to be more creative and he describes exercises to develop these skills.These include the practices of still point, direct experience, caretaking, experiencing without identifying, and expressing things for what else they are.He next discusses the Zen aesthetic as expressed in various forms of Zen art with examples from history (or at least legend) and his personal experience.As the book progresses, various forms of enigmatic statements that appear to be common in the Zen tradition are introduced.For example, the author states "In the Zen transmission of wisdom, nothing is transmitted; nothing goes from teacher to student".

It would be nice if some principle could be extracted from a religion (for surely that's what Zen Buddhism is) that could be used by an artist without actually adopting the religion.On the other hand, I have never heard of a Christian way to be creative without being a Christian.So I suspect that Loori has placed the horse before the cart.If we are to practice the creativity of Zen Buddhism, we must first become Zen Buddhists a