Zen Meditation Plain and Simple

by Albert Low

First published by Tuttle in 1989 as An Invitation to Practice Zen , Zen Meditation Plain and Simple has gone on to sell nearly 20,000 copies. Now, with a new preface and updated instructional photographs, it's perfect to help a new generation of readers looking to learn the basics of zazen—zen meditation. With a concise overview of the basics and clear photographs illustrating the proper positions and postures, this comprehensive guidebook demystifies the age-old practice of zazen and brings its numerous benefits into the lives of today's Westerners.

Genres: Nonfiction, Philosophy

152 pages, Paperback

First published May 15, 2000

About the author

Albert William Low was a western Zen master in the Philip Kapleau-lineage, an internationally published author, and a former human resources executive. He lived in England, South Africa, Canada, and the United States and resided in Montreal since 1979. He held a BA degree in Philosophy and Psychology, and was a trained counselor. In 2003, he was awarded an honorary degree of Doctor of Laws for scholastic attainment and community service by Queen's University, in Kingston, Ontario.

Reviews

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

a pretty good manual on the basics of zen meditation. an informative but not terribly thrilling read.

[David Wu · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Zen is essentially a practice and not a dogma; no amount f theory or discussion will ever take the place of a few minutes of practice."

[Phil Calandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Zen Meditation Plain and Simple" is an introduction into the theory and practice of Zen Buddhism. Included are instructional photographs demonstrating various sitting postures and hand positions in addition to several breathing techniques. The basis of Buddhist practice is mindfulness in your everyday activities and the focus of the mind resting in pure awareness. Although this is an introduction into Zen Buddhism, this is not an easy book; however, I would highly recommend it.

[Quinn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great guide to the bare bones fundamentals of zen.