How many of us could ever think of reading/following “ZEN” path in life (a term small in size but quite heavy in real means) led by a well-known Swamiji (a best-selling book author as well) in a very lucid & subtle tone inclusive of pinch of humour in between lines? JUST UNIMAGINABLE RIGHT!
“MIND FULL TO MINDFUL – ZEN WISDOM FROM A MONK’S BOWL” by OM SWAMI who’s a mystic residing in the Himalayan foothills & also the author of the best-selling book “If truth be told: A Monk’s Memoir” 2014.
MIND FULL TO MINDFUL shows us the art of attaining the inner quietude without rituals/dogma. A beautiful book offering a life-changing perspective on life itself based on original Zen teachings. Om Swami shares with us the art of happiness with plenty of humour, stories & wisdom as he takes us on a journey from being mind full to mindful.
Now coming to the positive aspects (Personal opinion)-
• Usage of lucid & understandable & modernized tone of language (both English and Sanskrit) which will attract a greater no. of audience insignificant of age groups.
• Sanskrit mantras added special effects providing with a spiritual feel to its audience like – “OM GATE PARAGATE SAMGATE BODHI SVAHA”
• Guided way that how to practice Zazen & rest of its forms like wall gazing, Kinhin, Chado along with their historical & practical evidence which can be followed in day-to-day life
• Whole book divided into short & crisp chapters(five broad headings divided into 4 sub headings each) along with usage of meditation cartoons, quotes & paraphrases which is more engaging for readers
For example – “They looked at the calm and radiance on Buddha’s face and
couldn’t help but talk to him.
‘Are you God?’ They asked.
‘No,’ replied Buddha.
‘Are you a celestial being?’
‘No.’
‘Who are you then?’
‘I am awake.”
• Each and everything is so well explained along with the usage of vivid examples which adds a imagery effect to readers and is impactful like in the chapter of Osoji an example is mentioned- “Once they got together and asked the flute, ‘What is so special about you that Krishna plays you with his lips while he rarely ever touches us?’ ‘I am always empty,’ the flute replied
I would highly recommend this book to all the teenagers, young adults who may haven’t come across any such book like Gita and audience from any socio-cultural, educational bg or from any age grp should go through this 156 pgs short non-fictional spiritual journey atleast once in life-time & gain a clearance of mind & soul along with a peaceful way of living through ZEN.
I would like to rate it 4.5/5 for its writing style,plot & relevance.
Happy reading ❤🤞