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Shaolin Spirit: The Way to Self-Mastery
A contemporary Shaolin Master shares the wisdom and philosophy of the ancient tradition that has captured the imagination of millions worldwide
What do you imagine when you think of Shaolin? Ferociously strong warriors flying through the air?
Shaolin is more than just the physical expression of martial arts. Rooted in Zen and Tao philosophy, it also offers a way of reconnecting our minds with our bodies through meditative movement to cultivate the core virtues of discipline and perseverance.
In this book, Shi Heng Yi, founder of Shaolin Temple Europe and lay disciple of the Songshan Shaolin Temple, introduces us to the contemplative practice that underpins Shaolin – a way of life that has existed for over 1,500 years – and shows how it can help us today.
Having experienced the challenges of modern life as a young man, Shi Heng Yi understands the pressures only too well. Here, he highlights twelve key practices to help improve sleep, relationships and decision-making, as much as balance, flexibility and strength, offering a powerful pathway to self-mastery and understanding.
What do you imagine when you think of Shaolin? Ferociously strong warriors flying through the air?
Shaolin is more than just the physical expression of martial arts. Rooted in Zen and Tao philosophy, it also offers a way of reconnecting our minds with our bodies through meditative movement to cultivate the core virtues of discipline and perseverance.
In this book, Shi Heng Yi, founder of Shaolin Temple Europe and lay disciple of the Songshan Shaolin Temple, introduces us to the contemplative practice that underpins Shaolin – a way of life that has existed for over 1,500 years – and shows how it can help us today.
Having experienced the challenges of modern life as a young man, Shi Heng Yi understands the pressures only too well. Here, he highlights twelve key practices to help improve sleep, relationships and decision-making, as much as balance, flexibility and strength, offering a powerful pathway to self-mastery and understanding.
230 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 8, 2025
179 people are currently reading
797 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
May 3, 2025
A tough one to rate. This book covers a lot and is perhaps a little simplistic as a result. I'm not sure this is something you can learn by a book.
In full
Shi Heng Yi is a Shaolin monk and a Master. In this book he outlines some of the background to past and present Shaolin practices. He also talks about his journey in life and the arts. The "arts" here are the internal, and often martial, arts associated with a number of Eastern countries. There is some background to the basic philosophies including the idea that while Shaolin practices are rooted in Buddhism they are linked to Daoism and Confucianism too. Indeed much of this books seems perfectly relevant to Eastern arts in general.
There is a format running through this book. Each chapter will look at a particular topic and often Shi Heng Yi's life/Shaolin practices and then end with a "method" to help you deepen your understanding of Shaolin practices. As such this is quite wide ranging covering Buddhism, breathing practice, meditation, martial arts particularly internal, morality & virtues among other topics. The structure and order of this was generally good for me. There was emphasis on self awareness in a number of areas which is very good and an essential part of moving deeper into these arts.
In particular aspects such as nourishing Qi and working with the energy channels are basic but so important. I guess one problem is that is quite a short book and an awful lot is crammed in to my mind. This inevitably means that there will be a lack of detail for some people. At the end there are pointers to websites for further information and training however that might not be for everyone.
As an internal arts practitioner for some years now I found this interesting. However I think it rather unlikely that anyone is really going to get the best out of themselves via the rather basic descriptions of "methods". A phrase that I will use with my master is that it is all very easy however you have to work very hard to make it easy! Personally this will not come solely from any book for me. However it is quite possible that this will act as a trigger for people to explore more of this fascinating subject. I found this book a worthwhile read and informative in a few ways. Certainly of interest to those who want to know more about the Shaolin way of life and internal arts more generally. The writing style is simple enough and very accessible. 3.5/5
Note - I received an advance digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair review
In full
Shi Heng Yi is a Shaolin monk and a Master. In this book he outlines some of the background to past and present Shaolin practices. He also talks about his journey in life and the arts. The "arts" here are the internal, and often martial, arts associated with a number of Eastern countries. There is some background to the basic philosophies including the idea that while Shaolin practices are rooted in Buddhism they are linked to Daoism and Confucianism too. Indeed much of this books seems perfectly relevant to Eastern arts in general.
There is a format running through this book. Each chapter will look at a particular topic and often Shi Heng Yi's life/Shaolin practices and then end with a "method" to help you deepen your understanding of Shaolin practices. As such this is quite wide ranging covering Buddhism, breathing practice, meditation, martial arts particularly internal, morality & virtues among other topics. The structure and order of this was generally good for me. There was emphasis on self awareness in a number of areas which is very good and an essential part of moving deeper into these arts.
In particular aspects such as nourishing Qi and working with the energy channels are basic but so important. I guess one problem is that is quite a short book and an awful lot is crammed in to my mind. This inevitably means that there will be a lack of detail for some people. At the end there are pointers to websites for further information and training however that might not be for everyone.
As an internal arts practitioner for some years now I found this interesting. However I think it rather unlikely that anyone is really going to get the best out of themselves via the rather basic descriptions of "methods". A phrase that I will use with my master is that it is all very easy however you have to work very hard to make it easy! Personally this will not come solely from any book for me. However it is quite possible that this will act as a trigger for people to explore more of this fascinating subject. I found this book a worthwhile read and informative in a few ways. Certainly of interest to those who want to know more about the Shaolin way of life and internal arts more generally. The writing style is simple enough and very accessible. 3.5/5
Note - I received an advance digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair review
December 22, 2023
This is a fake "Shaolin master of the 35th generation" (the words he uses to market himself on his website). He has gotten only the first duanpin (disciple grade) about a year ago in Austria and is neither trained in the original Shaolin temple nor a monk. On the contrary, his fake "Shaolin temple" in Otterberg/Germany was reprimanded by the Chinese temple not to use their name etc.
He has marketed himself excessively in social media throuth Youtube and the help of the Mulligan Brothers, through TedX (where you have to apply yourself, not on invitation) etc. He also trained with other fake "masters" like Adam Mizner (Thailand) and Jiang Yu Shan (Taiwan) who also claim things that are not verified. So take everything he says with a grain of salt. People who have actually trained with the Shaolin see mistakes in his physical Kung Fu forms, too, and his advice is a collage of Jordan Peterson and other self-help promoters.
He has marketed himself excessively in social media throuth Youtube and the help of the Mulligan Brothers, through TedX (where you have to apply yourself, not on invitation) etc. He also trained with other fake "masters" like Adam Mizner (Thailand) and Jiang Yu Shan (Taiwan) who also claim things that are not verified. So take everything he says with a grain of salt. People who have actually trained with the Shaolin see mistakes in his physical Kung Fu forms, too, and his advice is a collage of Jordan Peterson and other self-help promoters.
December 27, 2023
A captivating exploration of spiritual wisdom intertwined with martial arts philosophy. The author's insights into the mind-body connection and the pursuit of inner balance make this book a must-read for those interested in both spirituality and physical well-being.
The narrative is enriched by the author's personal experiences, creating a profound journey for readers. As a fellow enthusiast of philosophical topics, you'll find the blend of wisdom and martial arts culture to be engaging and thought-provoking. Buddhism is the foundation of this well written and easy to digest exploration of Shaolin practices.
The narrative is enriched by the author's personal experiences, creating a profound journey for readers. As a fellow enthusiast of philosophical topics, you'll find the blend of wisdom and martial arts culture to be engaging and thought-provoking. Buddhism is the foundation of this well written and easy to digest exploration of Shaolin practices.
January 4, 2024
A good starter book for anyone interested in the way of the Shaolin! Personally it was a great refresher/reminder on how important the mind and body connection is and how one can find a way back to nurturing it. However, when it comes to the exercises I prefer to see them being executed in one of Shi Hen Yis Youtube videos.
December 5, 2024
Shi Heng Yi’s teachings blend positive thinking, gratitude, and martial arts in a way that feels both authentic and inspiring. His philosophy is grounded in principles that promote mental well-being, while his martial arts expertise—rooted in the Shaolin tradition—is genuinely impressive. I’ve found his approach not only to be a source of motivation but also a valuable guide for those looking to cultivate mindfulness and strength in their daily lives.
However, the way he presents himself on social media is a double-edged sword. On one hand, I’m grateful to have an internet personality who shares wisdom with pure intentions in an era dominated by polarizing figures and self-proclaimed “life coaches.” His positive message stands out amidst the noise of more extreme voices, and that alone makes his online presence a welcome breath of fresh air.
On the other hand, I did find myself questioning why Shi Heng Yi is the only Shaolin monk so visibly active online. This led me to investigate the controversies surrounding the “Shaolin Temple Europe” and the legitimacy of its practices. It’s a complex issue that raises questions about the commercialization of foreign traditions, particularly in Europe, where many martial arts have been rebranded for profit.
In the end, Shi Heng Yi’s message is valuable, but as with any figure on the internet, it’s essential to be careful who you trust.
However, the way he presents himself on social media is a double-edged sword. On one hand, I’m grateful to have an internet personality who shares wisdom with pure intentions in an era dominated by polarizing figures and self-proclaimed “life coaches.” His positive message stands out amidst the noise of more extreme voices, and that alone makes his online presence a welcome breath of fresh air.
On the other hand, I did find myself questioning why Shi Heng Yi is the only Shaolin monk so visibly active online. This led me to investigate the controversies surrounding the “Shaolin Temple Europe” and the legitimacy of its practices. It’s a complex issue that raises questions about the commercialization of foreign traditions, particularly in Europe, where many martial arts have been rebranded for profit.
In the end, Shi Heng Yi’s message is valuable, but as with any figure on the internet, it’s essential to be careful who you trust.
March 8, 2025
I liked the book, but it was clearly an advertisement show for his temple in Germany. I wouldn’t have needed so many hints to go there to be honest.
August 5, 2025
Highly recommend. A fantastic book to help you connect with yourself both physically and mentally.
January 8, 2024
Für Menschen, die sich schon ein bisschen mit Persönlichkeitsentwicklung beschäftigt haben und sich für Shaolin, das Leben und natürlich Qui Gong interessieren, kann ich dieses Buch äußerst empfehlen. Ich persönlich mag den Autor sehr und konnte mir sehr vieles aus dem Buch mitnehmen.
February 25, 2025
Inhalt: ★★★★☆ - interessant und motivierend
Sprache: ★★★★☆ - klar und reduziert
Aufmachung: ★★★★☆ - Fotos, Illustrationen, Infoboxen
Vollständige Buchbesprechung auf Academia-Aspera.de
Instagram
Der scheinbare Widerspruch von Kampfsport und Selbstaufgabe, die der Shaolin-Tradition innerhalb des Buddhismus inhärent ist, ist faszinierend und es wert, tiefer ergründet zu werden. Das Buch Shaolin Spirit von Shi Heng Yi bietet hierzu einen leicht konsumierbaren und modern aufbereiteten Einstieg in dieses fesselnde und uralte immaterielle Weltkulturerbe Chinas.
[...]
Shi Heng Yis Shaolin Spirit bietet eine erhellende (um nicht zu sagen erleuchtende) Einsicht in die Shaolin-Tradition und präsentiert ihre tiefgründigen philosophischen Lehren auf eine Art und Weise, die eine Brücke zwischen alten Weisheiten und den Anforderungen des heutigen Lebens schlägt. Basierend auf dem umfangreichen Wissen des Autors als Leiter des Shaolin Temple Europe, geht das Buch über reine Selbsthilfeliteratur hinaus und gibt auch Einsichten in die Geschichte und Riten einer uns so fernen Kultur.
[...]
Jedoch - wie bei scheinbar allen Selbsthilfebüchern - geht es auch hier nicht ohne eine Kontroverse um den Autor. Wenn Personen aus elitären Subkulturen an die breite Öffentlichkeit treten, weckt das stets die schelmische Neugier der Mehrheitsgesellschaft. Dadurch sind sie immer auch (sicherlich berechtigter) Kritik von innerhalb ihrer Community als auch von Außenseitern ausgesetzt. So auch hier.
Denn Shi Heng Yi habe laut einiger Aussagen im Internet keine Ausbildung im Mutterkloster in China erhalten. Dieses habe dem Shaolin Temple Europe sogar untersagt, sich als solchen zu bezeichnen. Dieser Konflikt wird im Buch auch angedeutet.
Wir wollen zwar auf diesen Umstand hinweisen, dem aber weiter keine Relevanz für die Lektüre dieses Buches beimessen. Denn trotz alledem kann man Shi Heng Yi schlicht als Sprachrohr für oben genannte Werte und eine Lebenshaltung sehen, die für sich alleine stehen. Er ist lediglich ein Medium, das diese Inhalte auf angenehm fokussierte und gefasste Weise kuratiert, wie sie in der heutigen Zeit meist nur grobschlächtig, hektisch und toxisch von Influencern oder anderen Akteuren der "Manosphere" vermittelt werden. Wem diese Abstraktion jedoch nicht ausreicht, hat selbstverständlich gutes Recht, die Finger von diesem Buch zu lassen.
[...]
Sprache: ★★★★☆ - klar und reduziert
Aufmachung: ★★★★☆ - Fotos, Illustrationen, Infoboxen
Vollständige Buchbesprechung auf Academia-Aspera.de
Der scheinbare Widerspruch von Kampfsport und Selbstaufgabe, die der Shaolin-Tradition innerhalb des Buddhismus inhärent ist, ist faszinierend und es wert, tiefer ergründet zu werden. Das Buch Shaolin Spirit von Shi Heng Yi bietet hierzu einen leicht konsumierbaren und modern aufbereiteten Einstieg in dieses fesselnde und uralte immaterielle Weltkulturerbe Chinas.
[...]
Shi Heng Yis Shaolin Spirit bietet eine erhellende (um nicht zu sagen erleuchtende) Einsicht in die Shaolin-Tradition und präsentiert ihre tiefgründigen philosophischen Lehren auf eine Art und Weise, die eine Brücke zwischen alten Weisheiten und den Anforderungen des heutigen Lebens schlägt. Basierend auf dem umfangreichen Wissen des Autors als Leiter des Shaolin Temple Europe, geht das Buch über reine Selbsthilfeliteratur hinaus und gibt auch Einsichten in die Geschichte und Riten einer uns so fernen Kultur.
[...]
Jedoch - wie bei scheinbar allen Selbsthilfebüchern - geht es auch hier nicht ohne eine Kontroverse um den Autor. Wenn Personen aus elitären Subkulturen an die breite Öffentlichkeit treten, weckt das stets die schelmische Neugier der Mehrheitsgesellschaft. Dadurch sind sie immer auch (sicherlich berechtigter) Kritik von innerhalb ihrer Community als auch von Außenseitern ausgesetzt. So auch hier.
Denn Shi Heng Yi habe laut einiger Aussagen im Internet keine Ausbildung im Mutterkloster in China erhalten. Dieses habe dem Shaolin Temple Europe sogar untersagt, sich als solchen zu bezeichnen. Dieser Konflikt wird im Buch auch angedeutet.
Wir wollen zwar auf diesen Umstand hinweisen, dem aber weiter keine Relevanz für die Lektüre dieses Buches beimessen. Denn trotz alledem kann man Shi Heng Yi schlicht als Sprachrohr für oben genannte Werte und eine Lebenshaltung sehen, die für sich alleine stehen. Er ist lediglich ein Medium, das diese Inhalte auf angenehm fokussierte und gefasste Weise kuratiert, wie sie in der heutigen Zeit meist nur grobschlächtig, hektisch und toxisch von Influencern oder anderen Akteuren der "Manosphere" vermittelt werden. Wem diese Abstraktion jedoch nicht ausreicht, hat selbstverständlich gutes Recht, die Finger von diesem Buch zu lassen.
[...]
August 10, 2025
Ein inspirierender und durchdachter Begleiter für alle, die mehr innere Stärke, Disziplin und Achtsamkeit in ihr Leben bringen möchten. Der Autor Shi Heng Yi zeigt, wie die jahrhundertealten Shaolin-Tugenden, wie etwa Disziplin, Selbstbeherrschung, Bescheidenheit und Wohlwollen, Schritt für Schritt im Alltag verankert werden können.
Was dieses Buch so wertvoll macht, ist die Verbindung von Theorie und Praxis: Neben klaren philosophischen Erklärungen finden sich zahlreiche Übungen, Meditationstechniken wie Zhan Zhuang, Qi‑Gong‑Elemente und QR‑Codes zu ergänzenden Videos. Das ermöglicht eine direkte Anwendung der Lehren.
Der Schreibstil ist modern, klar und zugänglich, besonders ansprechend für jüngere Lesern, die sich nach greifbaren, spirituell fundierten Impulsen sehnen.
Was dieses Buch so wertvoll macht, ist die Verbindung von Theorie und Praxis: Neben klaren philosophischen Erklärungen finden sich zahlreiche Übungen, Meditationstechniken wie Zhan Zhuang, Qi‑Gong‑Elemente und QR‑Codes zu ergänzenden Videos. Das ermöglicht eine direkte Anwendung der Lehren.
Der Schreibstil ist modern, klar und zugänglich, besonders ansprechend für jüngere Lesern, die sich nach greifbaren, spirituell fundierten Impulsen sehnen.
June 28, 2025
I'd be ashamed if i wrote such a book, where i keep on blabbering about mind and body connection, but then when i actually get to the body and stance practices, it's the most useless and basic explanation I've ever seen. Squatting monkey is the one that really got me. Oh it's useful for gathering energy... aaand that's it. And a picture at the end. Want to learn more? Go to the end of the book and pay for my other courses! Same with breath work.
If I'm buying a book I'm doing it because i want to be online less, not more! Otherwise I'd just watch videos!
Only good thing is to see the basics of shaolin/way of thought so it gets 2 stars. Otherwise it's a pamflet for online courses.
If I'm buying a book I'm doing it because i want to be online less, not more! Otherwise I'd just watch videos!
Only good thing is to see the basics of shaolin/way of thought so it gets 2 stars. Otherwise it's a pamflet for online courses.
August 6, 2024
Hat mir sehr gut gefallen, als Hörbuch.
Interessante Ideen und Ansätze, wie man sein Leben anders gestalten könnte.
Wie so oft, wird leider auch viel Platz eingenommen um die eigene Formel oder diverse Kurse zu bewerben. Allerdings ist viel davon auch frei verfügbar, daher keine schlechte Werbung.
Interessante Ideen und Ansätze, wie man sein Leben anders gestalten könnte.
Wie so oft, wird leider auch viel Platz eingenommen um die eigene Formel oder diverse Kurse zu bewerben. Allerdings ist viel davon auch frei verfügbar, daher keine schlechte Werbung.
June 27, 2025
I have listened to Shi Heng Yi for a while now on both youtube and ted talks. He is fascinating and insightful. The book is an excellent introduction into Shaolin and techniques that are used in terms of breathing and movement.
Some of the techniques are a little hard to follow in the book but there is a link at the end of the book which is very useful.
Overall a great read
Some of the techniques are a little hard to follow in the book but there is a link at the end of the book which is very useful.
Overall a great read
March 6, 2025
Das Buch ist wahrscheinlich als normales Buch besser als ein Hörbuch, da hier auch paar Sport-Übungen aufgelistet werden. Ich finde, es ist ein Persönlichkeitsentwicklungsbuch mit Sport-Übungen. Für Leute, die noch keine Bücher in dieser Kategorie gelesen haben, ist das Buch empfehlenswert.
June 19, 2025
hab am Ende abgebrochen, weil nur noch Kunden Reviews am Start waren. An sich n gutes Buch, mag Kampfkunst auch, aber das Ende war bissl komisch. Die Shaolin Kunst würde bissl als Allheilmittel dargestellt
October 9, 2025
Was okay. Liked especially the autobiography chapter describing Shi Heng Yi's life. Also enjoyed the philosophical sections.
However, all is very shallow. And the practical applications are very hard to understand, and follow. I skipped those.
However, all is very shallow. And the practical applications are very hard to understand, and follow. I skipped those.
February 21, 2025
Ich hatte mir mehr praktische Übungen erhofft. Ich höre Shi Heng Yi sehr gerne beim Sprechen zu und teile alle seine Einsichten.
Das Buch liest sich bis Weilen allerdings etwas unkonkret.
Das Buch liest sich bis Weilen allerdings etwas unkonkret.
June 24, 2025
Good concept, but did a poor job delivering it.
August 5, 2025
A good read albeit a little light on detail. Buth nevertheless a good overview and introduction.
August 19, 2025
Toegankelijk boek dat als mijn houvast is geworden.
January 25, 2025
2.5 Sterne. Ich kann 2-3 Dinge mitnehmen, was das Ziel eines Buchs sein sollte. Mir fehlt dennoch die klare Struktur. Und Übungen in Büchern zu erklären ist mMn mehr Platzhalter als ehrliche Wissensvermittlung.
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