Discover Inner Peace: Embrace ‘ZEN: The Art of Simple Living’ by Shunmyo Masuno

by admin

May 13, 2024

Book Review: Zen: The Art of Simple Living by Shunmyo Masuno

From the first moment I picked up Zen: The Art of Simple Living by Shunmyo Masuno, I was engulfed in a sense of serenity that seemed to leap off its pages. Masuno, a Zen Buddhist monk, has crafted what I would describe as a soothing balm for the frenzied soul of today’s fast-paced society. Through 100 brief chapters, each serving as a meditative morsel on simplicity and mindfulness, this book has gently guided me towards a lighter, more aware state of being. I consider it a companion to another book “The Daily Stoic” by Ryan Holiday that I refer to every morning.

“Image TextI would describe as a soothing balm for the frenzied soul of today’s fast-paced society”.

Each lesson in the book feels like a personal conversation with Masuno himself, as he makes the profound teachings of Zen Buddhism accessible to someone like me — someone who had always felt too busy to slow down. From learning to “Wake Up 15 Minutes Earlier” to “Place Your Hand on Your Heart and Listen,” the practices suggested are simple yet deeply transformative.

I particularly enjoyed how Masuno relates the lessons to everyday activities. Integrating mindfulness into routine actions like drinking tea or arranging flowers transformed these moments into opportunities for presence and calmness in my day. The book isn’t just about spiritual enlightenment; it’s a practical guide to living life more fully, deeply appreciating the moment you are in.

The quiet wisdom of Masuno’s words encouraged me to look at my surroundings with new eyes, finding beauty and serenity in places where I had overlooked them before. The chapter on mindfulness in eating, for example, changed how I approach meals—turning them from hurried necessities into moments of gratitude and enjoyment, and especially tasting the individual ingredients.

Accompanied by peaceful illustrations, each page of this book invited me to slow down. Reading Zen: The Art of Simple Living became a ritual in itself. I found myself reaching for it in various moments, and every time, it felt like a gentle reminder to breathe, bringing a brief respite from the chaos of the world.

In conclusion, Zen: The Art of Simple Living has not just been a book to me; it has been a companion on my journey towards a simpler, more conscious way of living. For anyone looking to calm their minds, declutter their lives, and embrace the essence of Zen, Masuno’s gentle wisdom is a perfect guide. This book is a treasure that I will continue to return to, time and again, as I walk my path towards simplicity and peace.