Author: Shunmyo Masuno
Age: All
RHLife’s Review: ★★★★☆
“Zen: The Art of Simple Living” is a fantastic book for anyone seeking a more mindful and intentional life. The author delves into the principles of Zen Buddhism and shows how they can be applied to daily life in a way that is both practical and inspiring.
The book is divided into short chapters, each offering a different lesson or piece of advice. Masuno draws on his experiences as a Zen priest and gardener to provide insights on topics such as mindfulness, gratitude, letting go of material possessions, and finding beauty in everyday life.
Part 1: 30 ways to energize your ‘present self’ / Try making a subtle shift in your habits.
Part 2: 30 ways to inspire confidence and courage for living / Try changing your perspective.
Part 3: 20 ways to alleviate confusion and worry / Try changing how you interact with others.
Part 4: 20 ways to make any day the best day / Try shifting your attention to the present moment.
Masuno emphasizes the importance of cultivating a peaceful mind and creating a simple, uncluttered environment to support this goal. He offers tips for decluttering and organizing your home, as well as advice for finding joy in simple activities like cooking, gardening, and spending time in nature.
Throughout the book, Masuno encourages readers to reflect on their own lives and values, and to make intentional choices about how they want to live. He suggests that by embracing simplicity and mindfulness, we can find greater happiness and fulfillment in our daily lives.
“The Art of Simple Living” is a thoughtful and inspiring book that offers practical wisdom for anyone seeking a more peaceful, meaningful life.
