Ernest Cadorin

The Arrows of Zen

"Cadorin demonstrates a flair for integrating what to most people seem abstractions into concrete practice." -Mensa World Journal

Think Zen is soft music and scented candles? This absolutely fantastic book turns up the lights and illuminates some of the most profound aspects of the ancient philosophy. Drawing on decades of experience in Zen and the martial arts, Ernest Cadorin explains the principles and practices of Zen through compelling stories and brilliant interpretations. Whether you are seeking to improve your mental focus, or just trying to experience more in life, this delightful book is a must-have item for your personal-development toolbox.

Contents

Preface

Zen by Accident

The Stories

  • The Test

  • The Stream

  • The Wooden Sword

  • The Two Arrows

  • The Farmer

  • The Woodsman

Practical Zen

  • The Power of Parables

  • Stay Active

  • Don’t Forget to Breathe

  • Cultivate Discipline

  • The Arrow of Time

  • Everything Zen?

Appendices

  • Glossary

  • Recommended Reading

  • References

Excerpts

"Living in the moment does not mean forgetting about the past or ignoring the future. It means drawing on our past experiences and keeping the future in sight as we put all of our energy into the present."

"We are evolutionarily hard-wired to prioritize negative stimuli because of the survival advantages this gives us. Evolution is blind, and it doesn't necessarily care about our happiness. That's up to us."

"Greater awareness brings about a greater appreciation of the people, places, and things in our lives. The more observant we are, the richer our daily experiences become."

"When we are aware and sensitive to what's happening, we can take steps to make things better."

"We are creatures of habit, and leveraging our habitual tendencies is one of the best ways to develop discipline."

"When we are active, we become stronger and more energetic. This, in turn, makes us more positive and self-confident. It's a powerful cycle."