Zen in the Martial Arts

By: Joe Hyams

Narrated by: Jim Meskimen

Length: 2 hrs and 37 mins

Publisher's summary

"A man who has attained mastery of an art reveals it in his every action." - Samurai maxim

Under the guidance of such celebrated masters as Ed Parker and the immortal Bruce Lee, Joe Hyams vividly recounts his more than twenty-five years of experience in the martial arts. In his illuminating story, Hyams reveals to listeners how the daily application of Zen principles not only developed his physical expertise but gave him the mental discipline to control his personal problems - self-image, work pressure, competition. Indeed, mastering the spiritual goals in martial arts can dramatically alter the quality of your life - enriching your relationships with people, as well as helping you make use of all your abilities.

©1979 Joe Hyams (P)2014 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

THIS BOOK IS ESSENTIAL!

Any additional comments?

Okay, I figured this would be good, but I was not prepared for HOW good. If you really want a treat I recommend reading this book and then reading The Unfettered Mind by Takuan Soho, here's why. The Unfettered mind is one of the most important books ever written regarding zen and martial arts, but it can be difficult to absorb. This book really simplifies the ideas in The Unfettered mind and make it easier to take in. The Unfettered Mind made a lot more sense to me after reading this.

This book is simple, profound, and elegant. I cannot recommend it enough.

A great book! Will be a classic some day!

What made the experience of listening to Zen in the Martial Arts the most enjoyable?

Great short stories of wisdom and learning! A must read for every beginning Martial Artist.

Which scene was your favorite?

The fox and rabbit story.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

Yes, it make me think!

Any additional comments?

A read and reread for me!

Yuqiao

Whole book only took about 3 hours to listen, one of the most enlightening pieces so far for me, who just started practicing MMA. 10/10 recommended for everyone who’s looking for headspace and gaining awareness of himself.

Good insights

Good insights into the subject matter, as-well-as the authors relationship with Bruce Lee and what he learned from him.

Review

Simply amazing! One of my favorite books for sure. Applicable to life and not only martial arts but a must for any martial artist.

Must listen over and over again

The best book ever written on the application of Zen on Martial arts and also this knowledge can be applied in our life.

Joe Hyams you have left us with a great book. Thank You So Much for writing this book.

10/10 for the narrator Jim Meskimen.
Truly Enjoyed your Performance 👌👍👏

My take

I've read this book many times. My first copy was a gift from my sifu some 40 plus years ago. No matter how many times I read it, I'm either reminded of something, or learn something new. At least in perspective. This is the first time I've listened to it. The reader is pleasant to hear, and it's most educational and enlightening. I strongly recommend it to everyone, interested in martial arts, philosophy, or just life. It's really a great opportunity to learn. An has interesting historical information, and stories. Enjoy

New Outlook

I found this book very enlightening with new perspective on how one should live life.

Word to transform

Listening in my anger state of mindfulness, helped me to realize and refocus the negative energy that was building inside of me. I will learn to empty my cup so I can fill it with positive vibes.

Find your Zen

Full of anecdotes, this is a little book of wisdom on some life lessons. I would consider it a decent guide on how to exercise control on yourself on your body as well as your emotions. There are some valuable tips to consider such as:

1. Do not give in to anger and fight.
2. If you are aggressive with someone, their immediate response will also be aggression.
3. The more you practice the more your body learns how to respond instinctively, the 'it' response where your body reacts without you putting any effort.
4. You can relax, meditate and focus your mind on something else to not feel any physical pain (such as a tooth extraction etc)
5. It is possible to channel your entire body energy on healing by just telling yourself and seeing it visually happen in your mind and so much more..

Each lesson has a story too so there is never a dull moment.