Zen in the Martial Arts

"This is certainly an excellent little book.
Hyams' stories are short, interesting and all prove a valuable point; each of which gives you one of those 'zen' moments where you look upwards, nod to yourself and say 'yeah...' quietly. A rewarding read, filled with stories of some great martial artists.
This book is highly recomended by myself, and well, alot of other readers by the look of it.
Deffinately a little moment of zen for us all.
"
~ Written on 2008-04-29

"'Zen In Martial Arts' is a short but insightful book that looks at the lessons one may learn from martial arts and how to apply them to everyday life. Even if you're not a martial artist there is much to learn and benefit from in this book. Hyams writing style is very easy to read and accessible and the short chapters make this perfect to dip into or to read in one sitting as I did. This also has some nice photography at the start of each chapter. One of the better books i've read that links martial arts to the deeper message behind them, well worth a read."
~ Written on 2008-03-08

"A nice easy read that manages, just, to stay on the right side of self help books.
Doesn't give any answers, just a few tips. A bit light on real insight but gives enough food for thought."
~ Written on 2008-02-21

"This book is clear and interesting. The writers style is interesting and you are able to learn from this book. It basically does what it says on the tin and is insightful on a subject which other writers only confuse you more about. Joe writes clearly and is living in the real world unlike other writers on this subject. In the book he refers to various lessons he learned from his own martial arts training and experiencees. You learn lessons he learned whilst training with the late great Bruce Lee. A very good book on a difficult subject which anyone will be able to enjoy and understand. "
~ Written on 2007-09-01

"Must be a classic already? I can't add much too all the positive reviews listed here already, but, despite being a small book and a quick and easy read, it's one of those books that should be read and its contents digested several times, to make sure the important messages have sunk into your sub-consciousness.

Joe gives several accounts of when he trained with Bruce Lee and there are many witty and funny stories in the book. The book covers many Budo secrets and is a fantastic summary of many of the great samurai classics. No matter what Martial Art you study, there will be plenty of material here to improve your performance and help you with the important aspects of breathing, timing and Kime.

Try and get the Bantam July 1982 edition as it is nice and small and can fit in your pocket. Keep it by your bedside to give you something to meditate on before you go to sleep and refer to it often to help you absorb the important techniques within the book. If followed with some persistence, I am certain it could help anyone increase their longevity though the various practices in the book."
~ Written on 2007-02-14