Will I love Zen in the Art of Archery?

Before Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, there was this, which is considerably shorter and more to the point.

Published in 1958, Herrigel’s book was a threshold moment in the westward spread of Eastern ideas. I read it in high school, and what still sticks with me is the kyudo Master’s instruction on how to draw the bowstring: “to let only your two hands do the work, while your arm and shoulder muscles remain relaxed, as though they looked on impassively. Only when you can do this will you have fulfilled one of the conditions that make the… show more.

My first somewhat clear understanding of what Zen is, and perhaps isn’t, came from the reading of this book.

I have seen in my own life when I’m doing photography or playing golf that I can enter a state of Zen. Nothing else exists while I’m depressing the shutter or hitting that little white ball. The concept of mindfulness is something that is much easier to read about than put into practice, but reading this book has helped me take strides toward living in the present.  

Embark on a fascinating exploration of Zen philosophy and its connection to the mastery of archery in Eugen Herrigel's captivating book.

As Herrigel recounts his six-year journey in Japan, learning the ancient art of archery under a master archer, he reveals profound insights into the Zen principles of mindfulness, discipline, and the unity of mind and body. As Herrigel learned the art of archery, we must undergo similar experiences in our own lives, be it learning to code or learning how to raise children.

I see the difficulties in this every day when I work as a trainer. This text… show more.