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Shaolin Spirit: The Way to Self-Mastery
Bring clarity, strength, and purpose to your modern life through the ancient wisdom of Shaolin.
What do you imagine when you think of Shaolin? Ferociously strong warriors flying through the air?
Shaolin is more than just a martial art—it is a way of life. Rooted in Zen and Taoist philosophy, its ancient wisdom teaches us how to unite mind and body, cultivate resilience, and develop an equanimous perspective amongst a chaotic world.
In the international bestseller Shaolin Spirit, renowned teacher and founder of the Shaolin Temple Europe Shi Heng Yi reveals profound insights to human development paired with twelve personal core practices to foster essential transformation of body and mind. From improving sleep and mental clarity to building strength, flexibility, and focus, these time-honored techniques offer a practical and personal way to self-mastery.
Blending profound philosophy with practical guidance, Shaolin Spirit is an invitation to step into the discipline, determination, and power of the Shaolin way—no matter where you are in life.
What do you imagine when you think of Shaolin? Ferociously strong warriors flying through the air?
Shaolin is more than just a martial art—it is a way of life. Rooted in Zen and Taoist philosophy, its ancient wisdom teaches us how to unite mind and body, cultivate resilience, and develop an equanimous perspective amongst a chaotic world.
In the international bestseller Shaolin Spirit, renowned teacher and founder of the Shaolin Temple Europe Shi Heng Yi reveals profound insights to human development paired with twelve personal core practices to foster essential transformation of body and mind. From improving sleep and mental clarity to building strength, flexibility, and focus, these time-honored techniques offer a practical and personal way to self-mastery.
Blending profound philosophy with practical guidance, Shaolin Spirit is an invitation to step into the discipline, determination, and power of the Shaolin way—no matter where you are in life.
10 pages, Audible Audio
Published March 3, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
April 26, 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.
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.
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.
June 28, 2026
I’m probably not the typical reader of this book (if there’s any such thing). I’m 71, have spent my entire life with inner work (meditation, healing etc.), and also some body practices although not so much compared to the inner practices. In other words, I have walked my own path to Self-Mastery, but in a different way, and with less focus on the physical body. If I were to start all over today, I would ensure much more focus on the mind-body connection.
A few years ago I have started encountering pain (sometimes severe) in my joints, and that motivated me to dedicate much more of my awareness and time to my physical body and to the connection between the inner and the physical.
The primary reason for my interest in this book is exactly because of the focus on the mind-body connection, including how to address tension and pain. I’m pleasantly surprised to see that my own findings are in alignment with the Shaolin approach. And I’m grateful for the few foundational exercises that I can now add to my practices.
In other words, I do not intend to start walking the Shaolin path. For those who do consider walking that path, the book gives a good impression of what it is about. However, it’s not a great self-help book, in the sense that it’s not structured in such a way that you can actually start walking the path (although you can learn a few fundamental approaches). Still, it presents a profound introduction to the philosophy and the approach and if you feel so inspired you can go from there to the actual courses, online and offline.
A few years ago I have started encountering pain (sometimes severe) in my joints, and that motivated me to dedicate much more of my awareness and time to my physical body and to the connection between the inner and the physical.
The primary reason for my interest in this book is exactly because of the focus on the mind-body connection, including how to address tension and pain. I’m pleasantly surprised to see that my own findings are in alignment with the Shaolin approach. And I’m grateful for the few foundational exercises that I can now add to my practices.
In other words, I do not intend to start walking the Shaolin path. For those who do consider walking that path, the book gives a good impression of what it is about. However, it’s not a great self-help book, in the sense that it’s not structured in such a way that you can actually start walking the path (although you can learn a few fundamental approaches). Still, it presents a profound introduction to the philosophy and the approach and if you feel so inspired you can go from there to the actual courses, online and offline.
September 19, 2026
Nette Denkanstöße - teilweise wenig theoretischer Hintergrund, aber das scheint auch nicht das Anliegen des Buches zu sein. Würde empfehlen es eher zwischendurch zu lesen als am Stück
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 9, 2025
Das Buch ist gut, trifft mich nur zur falschen Zeit. Oder auch nicht!? Ich weiß es nicht, muss nochmal nachlesen. Ist wirklich viel!
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.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Quick Summary: A collection of mind, body, and spirit lessons
My Review: Shaolin Spirit: The Way to Self-Mastery by Shi Heng Yi is a guide for self-help/self-improvement. It is categorized as "Religion & Spirituality | Self-Help | Sports."It was originally published in 2025. The U.S./English Edition is scheduled for release on 3/3/26.
About the Book: "Bring clarity, strength, and purpose to your modern life through the ancient wisdom of Shaolin.
...insights to human development paired with twelve personal core practices to foster essential transformation of body and mind.
an invitation to step into the discipline, determination, and power of the Shaolin way—no matter where you are in life."
In My Own Words: A blend of mindfulness teaching, body awareness, harmony promoters, and more.
About the Audiobook: This book was narrated by Shi Heng Yi. Who better to communicate the principles and practices presented in the book other than the author himself? He was able to emphasize the points he viewed as important. That made me want to listen more.
My Final Say: I found the content in this book to be logical and familiar. There was definitely a degree of wisdom attached to it. I cannot say that I was not aware of much of what he said. I suppose what made it fresh was the inclusion of Shaolin origin information, the Shaolin mindset POV, his bio/background journey, and the stressed emphasis on practicing what was revealed.
The audio experience should be slowly appreciated versus quickly consumed.
This book caused me to consider Eastern and Western philosophies, teachings, and practices related to the mind-body-spirit-universe connection.
Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Status/Level: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Format: 🎧
Narration: +
Cover: +
Appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (Macmillan Audio), and to NetGalley. Thank you for the opportunity to review an ALC of this title. I am grateful for the experience.
My Review: Shaolin Spirit: The Way to Self-Mastery by Shi Heng Yi is a guide for self-help/self-improvement. It is categorized as "Religion & Spirituality | Self-Help | Sports."It was originally published in 2025. The U.S./English Edition is scheduled for release on 3/3/26.
About the Book: "Bring clarity, strength, and purpose to your modern life through the ancient wisdom of Shaolin.
...insights to human development paired with twelve personal core practices to foster essential transformation of body and mind.
an invitation to step into the discipline, determination, and power of the Shaolin way—no matter where you are in life."
In My Own Words: A blend of mindfulness teaching, body awareness, harmony promoters, and more.
About the Audiobook: This book was narrated by Shi Heng Yi. Who better to communicate the principles and practices presented in the book other than the author himself? He was able to emphasize the points he viewed as important. That made me want to listen more.
My Final Say: I found the content in this book to be logical and familiar. There was definitely a degree of wisdom attached to it. I cannot say that I was not aware of much of what he said. I suppose what made it fresh was the inclusion of Shaolin origin information, the Shaolin mindset POV, his bio/background journey, and the stressed emphasis on practicing what was revealed.
The audio experience should be slowly appreciated versus quickly consumed.
This book caused me to consider Eastern and Western philosophies, teachings, and practices related to the mind-body-spirit-universe connection.
Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Status/Level: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Format: 🎧
Narration: +
Cover: +
Appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (Macmillan Audio), and to NetGalley. Thank you for the opportunity to review an ALC of this title. I am grateful for the experience.
January 23, 2026
Hat mich total abgeholt!
Empfehlenswert für alle die nach innerer Ruhe streben. Ob nach einem stressigen Arbeitstag oder innerer Unruhe weil man nicht weiß, was man mit seinem Leben anfangen will 😄
Empfehlenswert für alle die nach innerer Ruhe streben. Ob nach einem stressigen Arbeitstag oder innerer Unruhe weil man nicht weiß, was man mit seinem Leben anfangen will 😄
June 25, 2025
I am greatful to have read such an experience.
August 5, 2025
Highly recommend. A fantastic book to help you connect with yourself both physically and mentally.
August 17, 2026
Shaolin Mind hat mich in den letzten Wochen begleitet. Leider bin ich mit etwas anderen Erwartungen an das Buch herangegangen und wurde deshalb eher enttäuscht.
Vom Autor hatte ich bereits viel Positives gehört und war neugierig auf seine Lehren und die Gedanken, die hinter seinem Weg stehen. Stattdessen empfand ich das Buch größtenteils als eine ausführliche und stellenweise etwas langatmige Autobiographie. Sein Werdegang, die verschiedenen Herausforderungen und die vielen Hürden, die er auf seinem Weg überwinden musste, werden ausführlich beschrieben.
Dabei hatte ich mir persönlich mehr konkrete Impulse und Lehren gewünscht, die ich auf meinen eigenen Alltag übertragen kann. Leider hatte ich am Ende nicht das Gefühl, besonders viel für mich mitgenommen zu haben.
Dennoch denke ich, dass das Buch für Leser(innen) interessant sein kann, die sich für den persönlichen Weg des Autors, seine Entwicklung und die damit verbundenen Höhen und Tiefen interessieren. Wer genau das sucht, wird hier sicherlich fündig.
Für mich persönlich hat das Buch meine Erwartungen leider nicht ganz erfüllt – aber manchmal liegt es eben auch daran, mit welchen Vorstellungen man an eine Geschichte herangeht.
Vom Autor hatte ich bereits viel Positives gehört und war neugierig auf seine Lehren und die Gedanken, die hinter seinem Weg stehen. Stattdessen empfand ich das Buch größtenteils als eine ausführliche und stellenweise etwas langatmige Autobiographie. Sein Werdegang, die verschiedenen Herausforderungen und die vielen Hürden, die er auf seinem Weg überwinden musste, werden ausführlich beschrieben.
Dabei hatte ich mir persönlich mehr konkrete Impulse und Lehren gewünscht, die ich auf meinen eigenen Alltag übertragen kann. Leider hatte ich am Ende nicht das Gefühl, besonders viel für mich mitgenommen zu haben.
Dennoch denke ich, dass das Buch für Leser(innen) interessant sein kann, die sich für den persönlichen Weg des Autors, seine Entwicklung und die damit verbundenen Höhen und Tiefen interessieren. Wer genau das sucht, wird hier sicherlich fündig.
Für mich persönlich hat das Buch meine Erwartungen leider nicht ganz erfüllt – aber manchmal liegt es eben auch daran, mit welchen Vorstellungen man an eine Geschichte herangeht.
March 7, 2026
Auf dem Weg zur Meisterschaft
Obwohl Shi Heng Yi als Kung Fu Meister mittlerweile bekannt ist aus Film und Fernsehen, hatte ich bis dato nichts von ihm gehört. Mich interessiert jedoch die östliche Lebensphilosophie, weswegen ich gespannt in das Buch eintauchte. Shi Heng Yi erzählt ganz persönlich, entwaffnend ehrlich und interessant von seinem Werdegang und seiner Leidenschaft: dem Kung Fu.
Doch für ihn hört die Meisterschaft nicht beim Körper auf, für ihn ist auch die spirituelle Geisteshaltung von essenzieller Wichtigkeit. Dennoch ist Shi Heng Yi kein Mönch. Und genau um diese fälschlichen Vorstellungen und Illusionen rund um ihn und die Kampfkunst geht es ihm auch in seinem Buch. Zwischen Aufklärung, Biografie und Erfahrungen, ist sein Text mit Weisheiten aus dem Buddhismus gespickt.
Gerade diese Mischung hat mir unglaublich gut gefallen. Ich konnte die Entwicklung von Shi Heng Yi förmlich spüren. Trotz Missgunst, übler Nachrede und finanzieller Herausforderungen, hat er seinen Traum nie aufgegeben und hat dabei die ein oder andere Stufe der Weisheit erklommen. Und genau daran lässt er uns teilhaben. Passage um Passage habe ich markiert, immer wieder innegehalten und mir vieles notiert, was ich in mein Leben integrieren möchte. Ein wertvolles Buch, nicht nur für Kung Fu-Interessierte!
Obwohl Shi Heng Yi als Kung Fu Meister mittlerweile bekannt ist aus Film und Fernsehen, hatte ich bis dato nichts von ihm gehört. Mich interessiert jedoch die östliche Lebensphilosophie, weswegen ich gespannt in das Buch eintauchte. Shi Heng Yi erzählt ganz persönlich, entwaffnend ehrlich und interessant von seinem Werdegang und seiner Leidenschaft: dem Kung Fu.
Doch für ihn hört die Meisterschaft nicht beim Körper auf, für ihn ist auch die spirituelle Geisteshaltung von essenzieller Wichtigkeit. Dennoch ist Shi Heng Yi kein Mönch. Und genau um diese fälschlichen Vorstellungen und Illusionen rund um ihn und die Kampfkunst geht es ihm auch in seinem Buch. Zwischen Aufklärung, Biografie und Erfahrungen, ist sein Text mit Weisheiten aus dem Buddhismus gespickt.
Gerade diese Mischung hat mir unglaublich gut gefallen. Ich konnte die Entwicklung von Shi Heng Yi förmlich spüren. Trotz Missgunst, übler Nachrede und finanzieller Herausforderungen, hat er seinen Traum nie aufgegeben und hat dabei die ein oder andere Stufe der Weisheit erklommen. Und genau daran lässt er uns teilhaben. Passage um Passage habe ich markiert, immer wieder innegehalten und mir vieles notiert, was ich in mein Leben integrieren möchte. Ein wertvolles Buch, nicht nur für Kung Fu-Interessierte!
April 15, 2026
This book is a great starting point for new practitioners of Buddhism. It is also excellent for people who are considering making changes in their lives regarding any type of physical exercise (whether it is Kung Fu or any other discipline or sport).
The reason I think it is great for long-time spiritualists is that it serves as a brilliant reminder of all the important things in life. If you want to dive deeper into any mentioned subject, you can; and if you are already familiar with them, it is never a bad thing to be reminded of the basics. :)
The reason I think it is great for long-time spiritualists is that it serves as a brilliant reminder of all the important things in life. If you want to dive deeper into any mentioned subject, you can; and if you are already familiar with them, it is never a bad thing to be reminded of the basics. :)
July 3, 2026
4,5/5. Very good! There are theoretical parts, some exercises as well. It was quite an interesting read and definitely a book I will reread, in a non-linear way, to use the exercises and remind me of some elements in it as well.
August 14, 2026
There were a few moments, a few pages, where I really felt like I was starting to learn something, and the book was turning around. So perhaps 2 stars is unfair. But for the most part, this felt like a hugely wasted opportunity. It was way too shallow and vague to be in any way practical. Exercises were suggested but without the depth of explanation to actually follow through. Guiding questions or topics were sprinkled here and there, but with very little follow up or linkage. Some chapters felt like it could have been a memoir, but then nothing connected. Was it supposed to be a practical guide? A philosophical exploration? A personal journey? I couldn’t figure out the goal, the audience, the style, or what to do with the fragments of instruction. Frustrating and not something that drew me to want to learn more.
August 17, 2026
Sehr inspirierend, manchmal aber auch viel leere Worte und Wiederholungen.
August 11, 2026
if pretentiousness and lying for profit was a book
September 23, 2026
I enjoyed this book. Definitely something I can read again.
Courage doesn’t mean the absence of fear but the overcoming of it.
If you respect people and other living beings, treat them with patience and loyalty, have the courage and persistence to help them, stand by them with perseverance, strengthen their will to make progress and go to bed each night knowing you have spent the day in righteousness, it makes your life better and more beautiful.
remember that “starting” doesn’t just mean reading about the virtues and understanding them intellectually. Far more important is to train them, the way you train a muscle in your body, so that it becomes increasingly prominent and obvious.
be mindful of the virtues day after day: at work, with your family and your friends. This is initially how you learn.
don’t chase rapid results, just enjoy what you’re doing and don’t think about tomorrow or the potential outcome.
when you manage to switch off autopilot, make conscious decisions about what to do and how to act in that moment.
We can pass on words, knowledge and stories, but never our own experience. Each individual walks the path in his or her own way
What do you love and cherish about yourself? What frustrates you most about your life? What would you like to change about yourself? And why do you want to change it? (You can choose more than one thing.) If you don’t change these things—say, drinking too much, eating too much or smoking too much—what is the worst-case scenario? Next week, next month, next year, in five years? If you do make changes, what is the best-case scenario? Next week, next month, next year, in five years?
What matters is that you feel good and face your journey through life with courage. If you want to develop the warrior spirit, you must be in harmony with your own nature.
start doing things that demand energy.
Be aware of your nature and walk your own path.
A clear, trained mind does not react immediately and blindly to external observation but perceives with awareness and ideally liberates you from spontaneous emotional reaction.
Pain is a fact, suffering is optional.
Watch your thoughts, because they become your words. Watch your words, because they become your actions. Watch your actions, because they become your habits. Watch your habits, because they shape your character. Watch your character, because it seals your karma.
When it comes to quality of life, the breath is crucial.
Repetition paired with deep insight is the mother of any skill you may wish to acquire.
The master shows you the path, but you have to walk it yourself.
It is the moment that matters. It is living in the present and being aware of what is, here and now—because the Now is the moment in which life is happening, and only in the Now can change take place.
If I behave correctly, the family is in harmony. If the family is in harmony, so is the village. If the villages are in harmony, so are the provinces. If the provinces are in harmony, so is the state. If the states are in harmony, so is the cosmos.
Right Meditation or Right Concentration refers to the Buddhist practice of meditation, which involves concentrating on a single phenomenon or object such as the breath. It allows the practitioner to calm the mind and reach a point of clarity.
Choose activities from your everyday routine and approach them like your meditation practice.
The Buddha saw that humanity was suffering, and in his compassion he wished to help, so he handed down the wisdom of the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.
The Four Noble Truths are: The Truth of Suffering: E
The Truth of the Causes of Suffering: The Buddha named ignorance (also referred to as delusion), greed and hatred as the causes of suffering.
The Truth of the End of Suffering:
The Truth of the Path That Leads to the End of Suffering: The fourth Noble Truth outlines the means by which we can end suffering: the Noble Eightfold Path. This consists of eight divisions:
Right View
Right Aspiration/Intent
Right Speech
Right Conduct/Action
Right Livelihood
Right Effort
Right Mindfulness
Right Meditation
Right View or Insight leads to Right Knowledge.
Try to free yourself from ideas, predictions and assumptions.
Right Aspiration or Intent leads to Right Thought, which in turn leads to Right Resolve.
Remember also that there is always a right and wrong time to raise a subject. Consider this carefully in each situation, so that your words fall on receptive ears and you don’t hurt anybody.
Right Conduct means constantly making sure that you are treating all living beings with compassion and kindness through your actions.
Right Livelihood means arranging your life in such a way that you cause no harm to human beings, animals or the natural world.
Part of Right Effort is understanding that your life is a journey which allows you to realize a better version of yourself every single day—“
Practice enduring hardships and develop yourself for the good of all beings.
Right Mindfulness involves the development of mindfulness. This means developing an awareness of the body and all its functions by, for instance, paying close attention to breathing, walking or standing.
If, for example, I have explained something to a student several times and they still don’t grasp it, I occasionally feel impatient. At the same time, however, I know that the student isn’t actually the cause of my impatience. In those moments, I am mindful to ask myself where this impatience is coming from. Why do I expect the student to be able to do something just because I’ve shown them three times? Where does that assumption come from? Were my teachers that way? Am I? And even if that’s the case, why am I projecting my assumptions onto other people? The more I self-reflect, the more I realize that my impatience is a subjective feeling anchored in myself; it does not arise from the situation, which is why it has nothing to do with the student.
Practicing the Virtue of Self-Control
Discipline is essential, because only through constant repetition and practice can you eventually reach proficiency.
Self-control prevents you simply “ending up” in a situation and reacting on autopilot.
The simplest way is to imitate, the noblest is to reflect and the most difficult, because it’s often the most painful, is your own experience.
At the heart of persistence is the desire to be a better version of yourself.
Love what you do, and if you don’t, then learn to love what you do.
I never really separated out what I did during the day into “professional” or “leisure” activities. I did and continue to do everything with the same dedication and commitment.
The gift of life is to realize that you are a creator and not a victim of your circumstances.
Your mindset determines your thoughts and thus how you see the world—which in turn affects how the world reacts to you.
You can’t make rage and hatred and other negative emotions go away by confronting them with more rage and hatred, but only through compassion.
Seek out and find people who are already living the kind of life you want.
Practice the necessary patience and walk your path calmly and with awareness.
Remember that anything locked or closed, everything that’s holding on to tension, opinions, possessions, all of that uses up and binds energy. This applies equally to mind and body.
Disconnect entirely. No phone, no music. Silence.
Only when you can identify the roots and causes of your problems can you tackle them.
extremes lead to suffering, which is why they should be avoided.
Having no opinions and no convictions liberates your mind,
Courage doesn’t mean the absence of fear but the overcoming of it.
If you respect people and other living beings, treat them with patience and loyalty, have the courage and persistence to help them, stand by them with perseverance, strengthen their will to make progress and go to bed each night knowing you have spent the day in righteousness, it makes your life better and more beautiful.
remember that “starting” doesn’t just mean reading about the virtues and understanding them intellectually. Far more important is to train them, the way you train a muscle in your body, so that it becomes increasingly prominent and obvious.
be mindful of the virtues day after day: at work, with your family and your friends. This is initially how you learn.
don’t chase rapid results, just enjoy what you’re doing and don’t think about tomorrow or the potential outcome.
when you manage to switch off autopilot, make conscious decisions about what to do and how to act in that moment.
We can pass on words, knowledge and stories, but never our own experience. Each individual walks the path in his or her own way
What do you love and cherish about yourself? What frustrates you most about your life? What would you like to change about yourself? And why do you want to change it? (You can choose more than one thing.) If you don’t change these things—say, drinking too much, eating too much or smoking too much—what is the worst-case scenario? Next week, next month, next year, in five years? If you do make changes, what is the best-case scenario? Next week, next month, next year, in five years?
What matters is that you feel good and face your journey through life with courage. If you want to develop the warrior spirit, you must be in harmony with your own nature.
start doing things that demand energy.
Be aware of your nature and walk your own path.
A clear, trained mind does not react immediately and blindly to external observation but perceives with awareness and ideally liberates you from spontaneous emotional reaction.
Pain is a fact, suffering is optional.
Watch your thoughts, because they become your words. Watch your words, because they become your actions. Watch your actions, because they become your habits. Watch your habits, because they shape your character. Watch your character, because it seals your karma.
When it comes to quality of life, the breath is crucial.
Repetition paired with deep insight is the mother of any skill you may wish to acquire.
The master shows you the path, but you have to walk it yourself.
It is the moment that matters. It is living in the present and being aware of what is, here and now—because the Now is the moment in which life is happening, and only in the Now can change take place.
If I behave correctly, the family is in harmony. If the family is in harmony, so is the village. If the villages are in harmony, so are the provinces. If the provinces are in harmony, so is the state. If the states are in harmony, so is the cosmos.
Right Meditation or Right Concentration refers to the Buddhist practice of meditation, which involves concentrating on a single phenomenon or object such as the breath. It allows the practitioner to calm the mind and reach a point of clarity.
Choose activities from your everyday routine and approach them like your meditation practice.
The Buddha saw that humanity was suffering, and in his compassion he wished to help, so he handed down the wisdom of the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.
The Four Noble Truths are: The Truth of Suffering: E
The Truth of the Causes of Suffering: The Buddha named ignorance (also referred to as delusion), greed and hatred as the causes of suffering.
The Truth of the End of Suffering:
The Truth of the Path That Leads to the End of Suffering: The fourth Noble Truth outlines the means by which we can end suffering: the Noble Eightfold Path. This consists of eight divisions:
Right View
Right Aspiration/Intent
Right Speech
Right Conduct/Action
Right Livelihood
Right Effort
Right Mindfulness
Right Meditation
Right View or Insight leads to Right Knowledge.
Try to free yourself from ideas, predictions and assumptions.
Right Aspiration or Intent leads to Right Thought, which in turn leads to Right Resolve.
Remember also that there is always a right and wrong time to raise a subject. Consider this carefully in each situation, so that your words fall on receptive ears and you don’t hurt anybody.
Right Conduct means constantly making sure that you are treating all living beings with compassion and kindness through your actions.
Right Livelihood means arranging your life in such a way that you cause no harm to human beings, animals or the natural world.
Part of Right Effort is understanding that your life is a journey which allows you to realize a better version of yourself every single day—“
Practice enduring hardships and develop yourself for the good of all beings.
Right Mindfulness involves the development of mindfulness. This means developing an awareness of the body and all its functions by, for instance, paying close attention to breathing, walking or standing.
If, for example, I have explained something to a student several times and they still don’t grasp it, I occasionally feel impatient. At the same time, however, I know that the student isn’t actually the cause of my impatience. In those moments, I am mindful to ask myself where this impatience is coming from. Why do I expect the student to be able to do something just because I’ve shown them three times? Where does that assumption come from? Were my teachers that way? Am I? And even if that’s the case, why am I projecting my assumptions onto other people? The more I self-reflect, the more I realize that my impatience is a subjective feeling anchored in myself; it does not arise from the situation, which is why it has nothing to do with the student.
Practicing the Virtue of Self-Control
Discipline is essential, because only through constant repetition and practice can you eventually reach proficiency.
Self-control prevents you simply “ending up” in a situation and reacting on autopilot.
The simplest way is to imitate, the noblest is to reflect and the most difficult, because it’s often the most painful, is your own experience.
At the heart of persistence is the desire to be a better version of yourself.
Love what you do, and if you don’t, then learn to love what you do.
I never really separated out what I did during the day into “professional” or “leisure” activities. I did and continue to do everything with the same dedication and commitment.
The gift of life is to realize that you are a creator and not a victim of your circumstances.
Your mindset determines your thoughts and thus how you see the world—which in turn affects how the world reacts to you.
You can’t make rage and hatred and other negative emotions go away by confronting them with more rage and hatred, but only through compassion.
Seek out and find people who are already living the kind of life you want.
Practice the necessary patience and walk your path calmly and with awareness.
Remember that anything locked or closed, everything that’s holding on to tension, opinions, possessions, all of that uses up and binds energy. This applies equally to mind and body.
Disconnect entirely. No phone, no music. Silence.
Only when you can identify the roots and causes of your problems can you tackle them.
extremes lead to suffering, which is why they should be avoided.
Having no opinions and no convictions liberates your mind,
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.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Shaolin tradition originated more than 1,500 years ago in China. The Shaolin Master – Shi Heng Yi – brings the ancient wisdom and makes it accessible to people in the present day. The tradition encompasses numerous different practices but in this case, martial arts and meditation are at the forefront. It’s about reuniting body and mind, looking deep into ourselves and realizing who we truly are and what potential we hold.
“The master shows you the path, but you have to walk it yourself.”
The Shaolin teachings offer answers and guidance for people searching for self-discovery and questioning what life is about; and guidance for developing skill of the mind.
The Eightfold Path provides different rules for attaining wisdom.
For example, Rules for Right Speech – to speak in constructive and compassionate way, before asking - pause and ask yourself – will it benefit another person?
Right Conduct – always think carefully about the impact of your actions.
Cultivating awareness is very important, living in the present time, no dwelling on the past and no future anxiety. If you’re conscious of whatever you’re doing, then anything can be a form of meditation: going for a walk, ironing, cooking, weeding, tinkering.
The Eightfold Path asks you to examine parts of your life that need to be corrected. As you study yourself and the Eightfold rules you’ll understand that life doesn’t revolve around you and that we all human beings correlate in the universe. The rules are to give you the tools to live a good and peaceful life. It’s to learn to love life.
The Shaolin virtues push you to engage more deeply with yourself. The virtues are like the toolkit.
For example, if you feel reactive because someone doesn’t understand what you’re explaining, it means that you should think about it – why you feel impatient. It’s actually a lesson for you, to dig deep inside, to uncover what is buried inside you.
The Virtues to be learned relating to action: humility, respect, righteousness, trust, loyalty.
The Virtues to be learned relating to mind: willpower, perseverance, persistence, patience, courage.
If you embody the Shaolin virtues, they will make your life and you as a person calmer and better.
You should embrace challenges as they are part of your personal growth. Assess things you do and things that happen to you. Be mindful of the virtues every day, keep testing yourself and expanding your horizons.
You have to be willing to change. Without change there is no growth. You have to grow beyond your current limitations.
Self-observation is a fundamental aspect of the Shaolin spirit. You need to be able to look at your negative traits and transform them, and move outside your comfort zone. You don’t change for other people. You change for yourself.
The important part is to choose a path that will be realistic to you and will support your growth. You don’t want to pick something that will overwhelm you and discourage you.
Learn to surrender yourself to the universe and trust in life. Everything is energy, including your body. Thus, you want to go with the flow, not against it when you create blockages.
This book also provides body poses and breathing methods. For example, practice of zhan zhuang from martial arts refers to the ability to release tension and blockages in the body and mind.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
“The master shows you the path, but you have to walk it yourself.”
The Shaolin teachings offer answers and guidance for people searching for self-discovery and questioning what life is about; and guidance for developing skill of the mind.
The Eightfold Path provides different rules for attaining wisdom.
For example, Rules for Right Speech – to speak in constructive and compassionate way, before asking - pause and ask yourself – will it benefit another person?
Right Conduct – always think carefully about the impact of your actions.
Cultivating awareness is very important, living in the present time, no dwelling on the past and no future anxiety. If you’re conscious of whatever you’re doing, then anything can be a form of meditation: going for a walk, ironing, cooking, weeding, tinkering.
The Eightfold Path asks you to examine parts of your life that need to be corrected. As you study yourself and the Eightfold rules you’ll understand that life doesn’t revolve around you and that we all human beings correlate in the universe. The rules are to give you the tools to live a good and peaceful life. It’s to learn to love life.
The Shaolin virtues push you to engage more deeply with yourself. The virtues are like the toolkit.
For example, if you feel reactive because someone doesn’t understand what you’re explaining, it means that you should think about it – why you feel impatient. It’s actually a lesson for you, to dig deep inside, to uncover what is buried inside you.
The Virtues to be learned relating to action: humility, respect, righteousness, trust, loyalty.
The Virtues to be learned relating to mind: willpower, perseverance, persistence, patience, courage.
If you embody the Shaolin virtues, they will make your life and you as a person calmer and better.
You should embrace challenges as they are part of your personal growth. Assess things you do and things that happen to you. Be mindful of the virtues every day, keep testing yourself and expanding your horizons.
You have to be willing to change. Without change there is no growth. You have to grow beyond your current limitations.
Self-observation is a fundamental aspect of the Shaolin spirit. You need to be able to look at your negative traits and transform them, and move outside your comfort zone. You don’t change for other people. You change for yourself.
The important part is to choose a path that will be realistic to you and will support your growth. You don’t want to pick something that will overwhelm you and discourage you.
Learn to surrender yourself to the universe and trust in life. Everything is energy, including your body. Thus, you want to go with the flow, not against it when you create blockages.
This book also provides body poses and breathing methods. For example, practice of zhan zhuang from martial arts refers to the ability to release tension and blockages in the body and mind.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Shaolin Spirit: The Way to Self-Mastery
by Shi Heng Yi
Thank you to St. Martin's Press for the ARC 🧘♂️📘
This is one of those books that asks you to slow down before you decide what it means to you. Shaolin Spirit sits somewhere between philosophy, self-discipline, and embodied practice, and it is very clear from the start that this is not a book promising quick fixes or guaranteed outcomes.
What stood out most for me is the way Shi Heng Yi consistently brings the body and mind into the same conversation. This is not self-mastery as restriction or denial, but as alignment. Mental clarity without physical grounding is incomplete, and physical strength without inner awareness is hollow. That balance gives this book a distinct identity compared to many Western self-help titles.
• Emphasizes self-acceptance as the foundation for meaningful change
• Frames discipline as liberation rather than limitation
• Blends Zen and Taoist philosophy with physical practice
• Encourages choosing one path and committing to it over time
• Avoids overpromising results, which feels refreshingly honest
I appreciated the humility in the approach. Shi Heng Yi is clear that everyone arrives with different bodies, histories, and circumstances, and that no single method works the same way for all people. The idea that self-mastery is about working with yourself, not against yourself, felt grounding rather than aspirational.
That said, this book covers a very wide range of material, philosophy, autobiography, mental practices, and physical exercises, and it does so fairly briefly. Some readers will find that breadth inspiring, others may find it frustrating. Many concepts are introduced rather than deeply explored, and the physical practices in particular may feel dense or difficult without external guidance.
• Broad scope rather than deep focus
• Physical exercises may feel challenging or inaccessible for some
• Best approached as a starting point, not a complete system
• More reflective than narrative in structure
This is not a book I feel finished with just by reading it once. Much of its value depends on time, repetition, and personal application, which makes it hard to fully assess on completion alone. For readers interested in embodied discipline, Eastern philosophy, or a more integrated approach to self-development, this can be a meaningful entry point. For those looking for a tightly structured or purely conceptual read, it may feel scattered.
Overall, Shaolin Spirit feels less like an instruction manual and more like an invitation. Whether that invitation resonates will depend entirely on what you are looking for right now 🌿
by Shi Heng Yi
Thank you to St. Martin's Press for the ARC 🧘♂️📘
This is one of those books that asks you to slow down before you decide what it means to you. Shaolin Spirit sits somewhere between philosophy, self-discipline, and embodied practice, and it is very clear from the start that this is not a book promising quick fixes or guaranteed outcomes.
What stood out most for me is the way Shi Heng Yi consistently brings the body and mind into the same conversation. This is not self-mastery as restriction or denial, but as alignment. Mental clarity without physical grounding is incomplete, and physical strength without inner awareness is hollow. That balance gives this book a distinct identity compared to many Western self-help titles.
• Emphasizes self-acceptance as the foundation for meaningful change
• Frames discipline as liberation rather than limitation
• Blends Zen and Taoist philosophy with physical practice
• Encourages choosing one path and committing to it over time
• Avoids overpromising results, which feels refreshingly honest
I appreciated the humility in the approach. Shi Heng Yi is clear that everyone arrives with different bodies, histories, and circumstances, and that no single method works the same way for all people. The idea that self-mastery is about working with yourself, not against yourself, felt grounding rather than aspirational.
That said, this book covers a very wide range of material, philosophy, autobiography, mental practices, and physical exercises, and it does so fairly briefly. Some readers will find that breadth inspiring, others may find it frustrating. Many concepts are introduced rather than deeply explored, and the physical practices in particular may feel dense or difficult without external guidance.
• Broad scope rather than deep focus
• Physical exercises may feel challenging or inaccessible for some
• Best approached as a starting point, not a complete system
• More reflective than narrative in structure
This is not a book I feel finished with just by reading it once. Much of its value depends on time, repetition, and personal application, which makes it hard to fully assess on completion alone. For readers interested in embodied discipline, Eastern philosophy, or a more integrated approach to self-development, this can be a meaningful entry point. For those looking for a tightly structured or purely conceptual read, it may feel scattered.
Overall, Shaolin Spirit feels less like an instruction manual and more like an invitation. Whether that invitation resonates will depend entirely on what you are looking for right now 🌿
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Thank you, St Martin's Press for the Goodreads giveaway.
Shaolin Spirit might seem like it's going to be familiar territory for anyone used to similar books about Buddhism for Western laypeople, or (on the other hand) the series of martial arts books that are for some reason often presented as guides to get ahead in life and business (The Five Rings, for example), or even an array of other self-help books that are basically about self-control. Where Shaolin Spirit differs is its emphasis on bringing together both mental and physical training; both are necessary to succeed in the other. Emphasizing self-mastery also makes this more unique among other Buddhist books aimed at busy Westerners; bringing in Buddhist (and daoist) philosophy, and physical training, differentiates it from secular self-help books about self-control.
I like that Shi Heng Yi opens the book by saying he makes no promises about what it will achieve, because everyone is a different person, in different circumstances, and will approach the book in different ways.
This book emphasizes accepting yourself and your situation, and working in harmony with your body's nature - and it's also made clear that this is not a hindrance to changing yourself, but is instead a prerequisite for successful change (of course, the fact that you can change no matter your other characteristics and circumstances might be one of the truths you have to accept first). I'm not widely read in the self-help genre, but to me this felt very refreshing compared to the messaging in other popular books about self-mastery or similar (at least, those that aren't coming from a Buddhist viewpoint). The position that self-mastery is freeing yourself rather than restricting yourself is also an invigorating idea to me. Even though the training is hard, you are ultimately working with and for your self.
I feel like my review is incomplete, because while I've finished the book, all the physical and mental training in it is meant to be practiced for several months at least.
Shi Heng Yi says that you should pick one way (or path, or method, whatever language you prefer) and stick to it for a while before you make up your mind. This book is a very good starting point if you're considering whether something like Shaolin training is right for you. Even if you're pretty sure you'll take a different path, it has plenty of sound advice.
Shaolin Spirit might seem like it's going to be familiar territory for anyone used to similar books about Buddhism for Western laypeople, or (on the other hand) the series of martial arts books that are for some reason often presented as guides to get ahead in life and business (The Five Rings, for example), or even an array of other self-help books that are basically about self-control. Where Shaolin Spirit differs is its emphasis on bringing together both mental and physical training; both are necessary to succeed in the other. Emphasizing self-mastery also makes this more unique among other Buddhist books aimed at busy Westerners; bringing in Buddhist (and daoist) philosophy, and physical training, differentiates it from secular self-help books about self-control.
I like that Shi Heng Yi opens the book by saying he makes no promises about what it will achieve, because everyone is a different person, in different circumstances, and will approach the book in different ways.
This book emphasizes accepting yourself and your situation, and working in harmony with your body's nature - and it's also made clear that this is not a hindrance to changing yourself, but is instead a prerequisite for successful change (of course, the fact that you can change no matter your other characteristics and circumstances might be one of the truths you have to accept first). I'm not widely read in the self-help genre, but to me this felt very refreshing compared to the messaging in other popular books about self-mastery or similar (at least, those that aren't coming from a Buddhist viewpoint). The position that self-mastery is freeing yourself rather than restricting yourself is also an invigorating idea to me. Even though the training is hard, you are ultimately working with and for your self.
I feel like my review is incomplete, because while I've finished the book, all the physical and mental training in it is meant to be practiced for several months at least.
Shi Heng Yi says that you should pick one way (or path, or method, whatever language you prefer) and stick to it for a while before you make up your mind. This book is a very good starting point if you're considering whether something like Shaolin training is right for you. Even if you're pretty sure you'll take a different path, it has plenty of sound advice.
April 28, 2026
This was a good book for me. I am learning to live more in the moment, which can be hard sometimes. Having concrete techniques for this is really useful.
One thing I recognize in myself: if I begin something, I have to finish it too. Most of the time I do this well, but there are still moments where I leave things unfinished — so that is one to remember.
A lot of choices get made for me, and it is good to remind myself that I do choose who I spend time with and what I give my attention to.
I liked the example of looking at a tree without labeling it as a tree or judging it. Just seeing it. That kind of presence is something I find genuinely hard.
What I also liked is that meditation does not have to happen on a cushion. It can be while cooking, for example — just doing that one thing, fully, without anything else. I have a Qi gong class coming up and I am curious how that will be.
Something that gives me a good feeling: closing my eyes in silence and thinking about my memories, about what makes me who I am. I have done this a few times and it works.
The book has exercises like the standing tree pose, where you hold a position for a long time and focus on structure, tension, and impulses in the body. I have not done it yet, and honestly I am a little afraid I will not follow through on it. Same with the exercise of focusing on one virtue for two weeks — patience, for me. That one I still want to try.
About stepping out of my comfort zone: I find it hard to define, because almost everything I do that is new feels like a challenge I look forward to, not something I dread. So I am still figuring out what that really means for me.
I want to learn the horse stance properly. I did it once for a few minutes, but I want to be able to hold it longer and with the right form.
The five hindrances were interesting. Sensory desires can pull me off my path. Errors and setbacks are normal — the key is to keep going and not stop. Restlessness is there too, so calming the mind and focusing on one thing matters. And trust in myself and in my purpose is what will keep me moving forward. To work through these hindrances, I first have to observe and accept them — and from there, let them go.
Two things I still want to do: go into the woods for a full day without my phone, just me, my body, and my mind, and see what comes up. And I want to learn more about my inner sensitivity. There are retreats for this in Germany, and I think that would be a beautiful experience.
One thing I recognize in myself: if I begin something, I have to finish it too. Most of the time I do this well, but there are still moments where I leave things unfinished — so that is one to remember.
A lot of choices get made for me, and it is good to remind myself that I do choose who I spend time with and what I give my attention to.
I liked the example of looking at a tree without labeling it as a tree or judging it. Just seeing it. That kind of presence is something I find genuinely hard.
What I also liked is that meditation does not have to happen on a cushion. It can be while cooking, for example — just doing that one thing, fully, without anything else. I have a Qi gong class coming up and I am curious how that will be.
Something that gives me a good feeling: closing my eyes in silence and thinking about my memories, about what makes me who I am. I have done this a few times and it works.
The book has exercises like the standing tree pose, where you hold a position for a long time and focus on structure, tension, and impulses in the body. I have not done it yet, and honestly I am a little afraid I will not follow through on it. Same with the exercise of focusing on one virtue for two weeks — patience, for me. That one I still want to try.
About stepping out of my comfort zone: I find it hard to define, because almost everything I do that is new feels like a challenge I look forward to, not something I dread. So I am still figuring out what that really means for me.
I want to learn the horse stance properly. I did it once for a few minutes, but I want to be able to hold it longer and with the right form.
The five hindrances were interesting. Sensory desires can pull me off my path. Errors and setbacks are normal — the key is to keep going and not stop. Restlessness is there too, so calming the mind and focusing on one thing matters. And trust in myself and in my purpose is what will keep me moving forward. To work through these hindrances, I first have to observe and accept them — and from there, let them go.
Two things I still want to do: go into the woods for a full day without my phone, just me, my body, and my mind, and see what comes up. And I want to learn more about my inner sensitivity. There are retreats for this in Germany, and I think that would be a beautiful experience.
July 18, 2026
Inhalt:
Werbung für den Shaolin Temple Europe und wer das Buch komplett liest, bekommt auch noch ein paar Lebensweisheiten.
Meinung:
Geschichten von Mönchen finde ich immer spannend und gerade die buddhistischen Mönche haben immer so lehrreiche Geschichten, dass ich unbedingt "Shaolin Spirit" lesen wollte, in der Hoffnung, diese Geschichten dort auch zu finden. Wissentlich erinnern kann ich mich allerdings nur an eine und die kam auch erst sehr spät im Buch. Zudem wird dem Buch-Konsumenten unterstellt auf der Suche nach etwas zu sein, was sein Leben besser macht und man Hilfe braucht, die man nur von ihm und dem Tempel bekommt. Das ist anmaßend!
Der Einstieg war extrem trocken und bestand förmlich nur aus Werbung für den Tempel. Ich war wirklich genervt und wollte schon abbrechen, als es dann etwas persönlicher wurde und Tien Sy Vuong (so der bürgerliche Name von Shi Heng Yi) aus seinem Leben erzählte. Das war auch gefühlt ein anderer Schreibstil, er wirkte nicht nach Kommerz. Als der kurze Einschub dann vorbei war, ging es leider wieder in den trockenen Stil und was der Aufenthalt im Kloster für Vorteile hat. Kleine Einschübe von Übungen folgten (brachten meinen Tolino Vision aber jedes Mal zum Abstürzen). Zudem kann man die Übungen auch auf Youtube verfolgen, dort allerdings nur mit hinterlegter Musik, ohne Erklärungen. Das Buch bietet also einen kleinen Support bei einigen Übungen, welche bei Youtube zur Verfügung stehen. Nach dem Beenden der Lektüre bin ich zwiegespalten, was mir das Buch nun gebracht hat und ich kann sagen, dass es einen interessanten Einblick liefert, wie man geschicktes Marketing betreiben kann.
Cover:
Es tut mir leid, aber es wirkt nicht echt. Es erscheint gestellt und nach dem Lesen des Buches ist dem auch so - mehr Schein als sein.
Fazit:
Ein sehr teurer Marketingspaß für lesewillige. Es waren ein paar interessante Punkte dabei, aber das rechtfertigt kein E-Book für 25,- Euro! Ich vergebe daher nur 2 Sterne und eine Leseempfehlung erst nach dem Studium der Webseite vom Shaolin Tempel.
Werbung für den Shaolin Temple Europe und wer das Buch komplett liest, bekommt auch noch ein paar Lebensweisheiten.
Meinung:
Geschichten von Mönchen finde ich immer spannend und gerade die buddhistischen Mönche haben immer so lehrreiche Geschichten, dass ich unbedingt "Shaolin Spirit" lesen wollte, in der Hoffnung, diese Geschichten dort auch zu finden. Wissentlich erinnern kann ich mich allerdings nur an eine und die kam auch erst sehr spät im Buch. Zudem wird dem Buch-Konsumenten unterstellt auf der Suche nach etwas zu sein, was sein Leben besser macht und man Hilfe braucht, die man nur von ihm und dem Tempel bekommt. Das ist anmaßend!
Der Einstieg war extrem trocken und bestand förmlich nur aus Werbung für den Tempel. Ich war wirklich genervt und wollte schon abbrechen, als es dann etwas persönlicher wurde und Tien Sy Vuong (so der bürgerliche Name von Shi Heng Yi) aus seinem Leben erzählte. Das war auch gefühlt ein anderer Schreibstil, er wirkte nicht nach Kommerz. Als der kurze Einschub dann vorbei war, ging es leider wieder in den trockenen Stil und was der Aufenthalt im Kloster für Vorteile hat. Kleine Einschübe von Übungen folgten (brachten meinen Tolino Vision aber jedes Mal zum Abstürzen). Zudem kann man die Übungen auch auf Youtube verfolgen, dort allerdings nur mit hinterlegter Musik, ohne Erklärungen. Das Buch bietet also einen kleinen Support bei einigen Übungen, welche bei Youtube zur Verfügung stehen. Nach dem Beenden der Lektüre bin ich zwiegespalten, was mir das Buch nun gebracht hat und ich kann sagen, dass es einen interessanten Einblick liefert, wie man geschicktes Marketing betreiben kann.
Cover:
Es tut mir leid, aber es wirkt nicht echt. Es erscheint gestellt und nach dem Lesen des Buches ist dem auch so - mehr Schein als sein.
Fazit:
Ein sehr teurer Marketingspaß für lesewillige. Es waren ein paar interessante Punkte dabei, aber das rechtfertigt kein E-Book für 25,- Euro! Ich vergebe daher nur 2 Sterne und eine Leseempfehlung erst nach dem Studium der Webseite vom Shaolin Tempel.
March 23, 2026
Thank you to the Macmillan Audio and the author, Shi Heng Yi for the advance listening copy (ALC).
This book blends philosophy with practical structure in a way that feels grounded and usable. Shaolin Spirit focuses on discipline, awareness, and daily practice as the path to self-mastery. It pulls from Zen and Taoist traditions while staying accessible and relevant to modern life.
What stood out to me is the emphasis on consistency over intensity. The twelve core practices are simple and repeatable, tied to real outcomes like better focus, improved sleep, and physical awareness. This is not a book you move through quickly. I found myself pausing often to write things down and reflect. To get the full benefit, you have to apply what you are learning and track your own growth over time. If I didn’t have a review deadline I would read one chapter a month and focus on implementing those learnings while reflecting on daily and weekly progress, I love tracking to see how far I’ve come.
Some practices feel challenging at first. Even something as simple as standing still can test your patience. Over time, as your mental discipline builds, that resistance starts to ease. That shift felt like a key part of the experience.
The narration by Shi Heng Yi is calm and steady, which reinforces the message of presence and control. It aligns well with the content and never feels forced.
This is not a passive listen. It asks for attention, repetition, and effort. If you are looking for structure, discipline, and a deeper connection between mind and body, this delivers. Looking forward to the release so I can get a physical copy to add notes and annotate.
Best for
• readers building a daily practice
• anyone focused on discipline and mental clarity
• listeners who want practical guidance with philosophy
Not for
• readers looking for quick fixes
• anyone who prefers passive listening without reflection
This book blends philosophy with practical structure in a way that feels grounded and usable. Shaolin Spirit focuses on discipline, awareness, and daily practice as the path to self-mastery. It pulls from Zen and Taoist traditions while staying accessible and relevant to modern life.
What stood out to me is the emphasis on consistency over intensity. The twelve core practices are simple and repeatable, tied to real outcomes like better focus, improved sleep, and physical awareness. This is not a book you move through quickly. I found myself pausing often to write things down and reflect. To get the full benefit, you have to apply what you are learning and track your own growth over time. If I didn’t have a review deadline I would read one chapter a month and focus on implementing those learnings while reflecting on daily and weekly progress, I love tracking to see how far I’ve come.
Some practices feel challenging at first. Even something as simple as standing still can test your patience. Over time, as your mental discipline builds, that resistance starts to ease. That shift felt like a key part of the experience.
The narration by Shi Heng Yi is calm and steady, which reinforces the message of presence and control. It aligns well with the content and never feels forced.
This is not a passive listen. It asks for attention, repetition, and effort. If you are looking for structure, discipline, and a deeper connection between mind and body, this delivers. Looking forward to the release so I can get a physical copy to add notes and annotate.
Best for
• readers building a daily practice
• anyone focused on discipline and mental clarity
• listeners who want practical guidance with philosophy
Not for
• readers looking for quick fixes
• anyone who prefers passive listening without reflection
October 27, 2025
Shaolin Spirit is one of those rare books that feels less like something you read and more like something you live with. I took my time moving through it, reading slowly and deliberately, but even now I feel as though I've only just scratched the surface of the wisdom it contains. Each page invites reflection rather than quick consumption, and it's clear this book is meant to be a lifelong practice rather than a one-time read.
Shi Heng Yi writes with a clarity that feels both grounded and profound. His lessons on awareness, discipline, and balance are rooted in Shaolin philosophy but offered in a way that feels deeply relevant to modern life. There's a calm strength to his words, a quiet authority that doesn't demand belief but instead encourages you to experience and explore for yourself.
The book's design is also worth mentioning. The artwork at the start of each chapter is beautiful, symbolic yet straightforward, perfectly capturing the spirit of what follows. The visual flow mirrors the teachings' rhythm: elegant, uncluttered, and mindful. It's the kind of book you pause to look at, not just read.
Even after finishing it, I don't feel like I'm done with Shaolin Spirit. Its lessons are the kind you revisit again and again, each time finding something new to learn or a deeper understanding of something you missed before. To continue my journey with it, I've also bought the audiobook so I can immerse myself more fully in its teachings and let the ideas settle in through repetition and reflection.
Shaolin Spirit isn't about quick inspiration or easy motivation. It's about patience, awareness, and the ongoing practice of living with intention. This book feels like a guide you'll return to throughout life, quietly powerful, endlessly rewarding, and full of depth waiting to be uncovered.
Shi Heng Yi writes with a clarity that feels both grounded and profound. His lessons on awareness, discipline, and balance are rooted in Shaolin philosophy but offered in a way that feels deeply relevant to modern life. There's a calm strength to his words, a quiet authority that doesn't demand belief but instead encourages you to experience and explore for yourself.
The book's design is also worth mentioning. The artwork at the start of each chapter is beautiful, symbolic yet straightforward, perfectly capturing the spirit of what follows. The visual flow mirrors the teachings' rhythm: elegant, uncluttered, and mindful. It's the kind of book you pause to look at, not just read.
Even after finishing it, I don't feel like I'm done with Shaolin Spirit. Its lessons are the kind you revisit again and again, each time finding something new to learn or a deeper understanding of something you missed before. To continue my journey with it, I've also bought the audiobook so I can immerse myself more fully in its teachings and let the ideas settle in through repetition and reflection.
Shaolin Spirit isn't about quick inspiration or easy motivation. It's about patience, awareness, and the ongoing practice of living with intention. This book feels like a guide you'll return to throughout life, quietly powerful, endlessly rewarding, and full of depth waiting to be uncovered.
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