Shaolin Spirit: The Way to Self-Mastery

by Shi Heng Yi

Bring clarity, strength, and purpose to your modern life through the ancient wisdom of Shaolin. This program is read by the author.

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.

A Macmillan Audio production from St. Martin’s Press Essentials

Genres: Self Help, Nonfiction, Philosophy, Spirituality, Audiobook, Memoir, Buddhism

Audible Audio

Expected publication March 3, 2026

About the author

Founder of Shaolin Temple Europe

Reviews

[Nigel · Rating 3 out of 5]

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

[Toni K · Rating 1 out of 5]

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.

[Nick · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Priscilla Carina · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Mimime · Rating 3 out of 5]

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.

[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Das Buch ist gut, trifft mich nur zur falschen Zeit. Oder auch nicht!? Ich weiß es nicht, muss nochmal nachlesen. Ist wirklich viel!

[Beyond the Pages with Eva K · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Seyyo · Rating 4 out of 5]

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 😄

[Sonne · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Sabrina Nyuki · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am greatful to have read such an experience.

[Razvan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommend. A fantastic book to help you connect with yourself both physically and mentally.

[Annette · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Atlas · Rating 3 out of 5]

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 🌿

[Vince · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[CadmanReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Jacquelyn Dohoney · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really interesting book. I know that there is some kind of controversy surrounding this author, and I’ll be honest that I have no idea what it is. I just picked up this book because I thought it would be an interesting take having read other similar books (albeit years ago). Whatever the controversy as to the validity of this author, I think the message is still there. There are many different perspectives and ways of ridding yourself of negativity and learning to let go of things you don’t have control over. One thing I did notice is that the way the author compares learning something, starting from a base that doesn’t seem to have any relevance and building upon it until you finally see how relevant that base actually was, is very much like a tattoo apprenticeship. I know, I know. How can they be remotely the same? They are. Having owned a tattoo studio hats been around for almost thirty years that still does traditional apprenticeships, we operate very much the same. Like that old scene in Karate Kid, wax on wax off? That’s it in a nutshell. This book isn’t designed to teach you how to be a Shaolin Master, but it does give you the very basic stepping stones and give you the tools to see if that lifestyle is something you want to pursue. If nothing else, it’s a great resource to learn to let go of the things you have no control over, to get rid of negativity and surround yourself with positivity.

Huge thanks to St. Martin's Press | St. Martin's Essentials and NetGalley for sending me this ARC for review! All of my reviews are given honestly!

[Dirks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shi Heng Yi’s teachings blend positive thinking, gratitude, and martial arts. His philosophy is grounded in principles that promote mental well-being, reliance on the body, and personal fortitude. He does not promise to become your teacher, or your master, but only to open your eyes to another way.

I’ve found his approach to invite a gentle reflection and valuable guide for those looking to cultivate mindfulness and strength in their daily lives. My key takeaways:
- Overcome monkey brain and seek to retrain your focus.
- Observe your emotions, but don’t allow yourself to become ruled or overcome by them. Similarly, you may be shot by an arrow from time to time, but there is no value in shooting yourself with a second one (the arrow of pain).
- Embrace discipline and mastery over yourself.
- Do not hold onto things past their season. When it is time to let go, let go.
- Seek to see without assigning judgement. In front of you there is a tree. Just a tree. Not an old tree, nor a young tree. Not a birch, nor a maple. Just a tree. Observe it. Watch it. Experience it over time and let it go.

A good starter book! It was a great reminder of how important the mind and body connection is and how one can find a way back to nurturing it.

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for providing an ALC.

[Savannah Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shaolin Spirit is an inspiring and insightful exploration of the philosophy, discipline, and inner transformation at the heart of Shaolin tradition. Blending history, martial arts wisdom, and spiritual guidance, the book highlights how ancient Shaolin principles—mindfulness, balance, resilience, and compassionate strength—can be applied to modern life.

The author’s voice is calm and encouraging, making complex ideas feel accessible and deeply meaningful. Through stories, reflections, and practical teachings, readers are invited to cultivate clarity, self-discipline, and a grounded sense of purpose.

Short yet powerful, Shaolin Spirit is ideal for anyone interested in personal growth, Eastern philosophy, or a more mindful approach to everyday challenges.

[Christopher · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book contains a wealth of valuable information. the problem I had with it is that by covering so much information it is done so very superficially. An example of this is that the Four Noble Truths covers a page and a half and the Eight-fold Path in Life is explained in seven pages. If this book leads to additional exploration of these topics, great. The book also contains exercises for mind control as well as physical exercises as well as his autobiography, again superficially. I would have enjoyed this more if the topics were used as a series of books not a 266 page attempt to cover all its wisdom.

[Carl Jacobs · Rating 2 out of 5]

I don’t get the fuzz about this book. I didn’t like it at all. Yes, it’s about the Shaolin Monks, which is all about good intentions and living from strong values and being kind ; reinforcing your body. Yet I found it a horrible read. Not fluent, a bit all over the place -no storyline. Not for me this one. 2 ⭐️ because of their good cause. Unless you want to train your body -complicated exercises explain- I would skip.

[James · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shi Heng Yi lifts the veil on the demanding ways of Shaolin monks, while providing important background on the development of the Shaolin way. It is full of practical advice as well as the history and philosophy. I recommend it and expect I will reread it in the very near future.

[I received an advanced e-galley from Netgalley.]

[Vicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shaoling Spirit is inspiring.

It is filled with mental and physical exercises with the explanations of why and how they would help short and long term.

What I also enjoy about this book is that it also includes personal experiences, and kind of like a biography.

This book is a must for anyone to use as a daily guide for exercises but also for mental well-being- to become a well rounded human.

[Martijn Euyen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is actually a great invitation to start practicing Kung fu. I read it as a supporting view for my weekly practice with my son at Kung fu school Golden Dragon. It motivated me to start training at a daily basis. There is still so much to unpack when it comes to this philosophy. I’ll get back to this book now and then to rethink the basics that are shared in it.

[Kathleen Starzenski · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book. I am going to read it again. There are great tips about meditation, martial arts but what I liked most was the questions to ask ourselves. Made me think of mind,mood,and body. I first heard of the author when I came across a YouTube video, “13 minutes of body activation/loosening exercises for the morning.” When I learned he had written a book, I had to read it.

[Tobi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Der Autor verfügt über umfassendes Wissen, aber auch wenn der autobiografische Aufbau des Buches immer wieder dazu dient dessen Erkenntnisse und Shaolin sowie den Buddhismus zu erklären, ist für mein Empfinden erheblich mehr Selbsterklärung enthalten als dies für die Vermittlung des Themas nötig oder sinnvoll wäre.

[Dustie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. I could listen to it again and again. Full of such simple wisdom.
Stillness.
Strength.
Self-mastery.
And above all else, focus.
I would love to read more from this author. He has so much to give.

[Farailde · Rating 3 out of 5]

3,5 eigenlijk

[Nathalie Bousquet · Rating 3 out of 5]

De bonnes pistes de réflexion pour quiconque désire s’aventurer à devenir un être plus spirituel et plus réfléchi. Le sujet n’est qu’effleuré et gagnerait à être approfondi afin d’éclairer un peu plus le lecteur. J’avais des attentes un peu plus grandes.

[Anthony · Rating 4 out of 5]

A little repetitive and could use more pictures to go with the exercise explanations, otherwise very insightful