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Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet: Harnessing the Power of Mindfulness for a Regenerative World, Personal Growth, and Inner Peace
NATIONAL BESTSELLER
"When you wake up and you see that the Earth is not just the environment, the Earth is us, you touch the nature of interbeing. And at that moment you can have real communication with the Earth... We have to wake up together. And if we wake up together, then we have a chance. Our way of living our life and planning our future has led us into this situation. And now we need to look deeply to find a way out, not only as individuals, but as a collective, a species."
-- Thich Nhat Hanh
We face a potent intersection of crises: ecological destruction, rising inequality, racial injustice, and the lasting impacts of a devastating pandemic. The situation is beyond urgent. To face these challenges, we need to find ways to strengthen our clarity, compassion, and courage to act.
Beloved Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh is blazingly clear: there's one thing we all have the power to change, which can make all the difference, and that is our mind. Our way of looking, seeing, and thinking determines every choice we make, the everyday actions we take or avoid, how we relate to those we love or oppose, and how we react in a crisis.
Mindfulness and the radical insights of Zen meditation can give us the strength and clarity we need to help create a regenerative world in which all life is respected. Filled with Thich Nhat Hanh's inspiring meditations, Zen stories and experiences from his own activism, as well as commentary from Sister True Dedication, one of his students Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet shows us a new way of seeing and living that can bring healing and harmony to ourselves, our relationships, and the Earth.
"When you wake up and you see that the Earth is not just the environment, the Earth is us, you touch the nature of interbeing. And at that moment you can have real communication with the Earth... We have to wake up together. And if we wake up together, then we have a chance. Our way of living our life and planning our future has led us into this situation. And now we need to look deeply to find a way out, not only as individuals, but as a collective, a species."
-- Thich Nhat Hanh
We face a potent intersection of crises: ecological destruction, rising inequality, racial injustice, and the lasting impacts of a devastating pandemic. The situation is beyond urgent. To face these challenges, we need to find ways to strengthen our clarity, compassion, and courage to act.
Beloved Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh is blazingly clear: there's one thing we all have the power to change, which can make all the difference, and that is our mind. Our way of looking, seeing, and thinking determines every choice we make, the everyday actions we take or avoid, how we relate to those we love or oppose, and how we react in a crisis.
Mindfulness and the radical insights of Zen meditation can give us the strength and clarity we need to help create a regenerative world in which all life is respected. Filled with Thich Nhat Hanh's inspiring meditations, Zen stories and experiences from his own activism, as well as commentary from Sister True Dedication, one of his students Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet shows us a new way of seeing and living that can bring healing and harmony to ourselves, our relationships, and the Earth.
320 pages, Paperback
First published October 5, 2021
747 people are currently reading
4521 people want to read
About the author
Thich Nhat Hanh
967 books12.6k followersThích Nhất Hạnh was a Vietnamese Buddhist monk, teacher, author, poet and peace activist who then lived in southwest France where he was in exile for many years. Born Nguyễn Xuân Bảo, Thích Nhất Hạnh joined a Zen (Vietnamese: Thiền) monastery at the age of 16, and studied Buddhism as a novitiate. Upon his ordination as a monk in 1949, he assumed the Dharma name Thích Nhất Hạnh. Thích is an honorary family name used by all Vietnamese monks and nuns, meaning that they are part of the Shakya (Shakyamuni Buddha) clan. He was often considered the most influential living figure in the lineage of Lâm Tế (Vietnamese Rinzai) Thiền, and perhaps also in Zen Buddhism as a whole.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 239 reviews
March 21, 2022
"Tell me what you eat and I will tell you who you are"
Everything we read, watch or listen to is food: it is material we are choosing to consume and pollute our bodies, minds and environment with. Naturally, we should be quite selective of this material because mindful consumption can save the planet.
Thich Nhat Hanh (Thay) was a vegan Buddhist monk and spiritual teacher and through this book he discusses the impotence of Zen in changing the world for the better. Mindfulness is needed on so many levels. Mindful actions and mindful consumption are required to create a peaceful environment. We must first change ourselves if we want to encourage others to live a kinder life. And I cannot quite stress enough how important this is. So many people look to others to create change, such as governments and politicians, but we must first make active attempts to change individually.
“When you wake up and you see that the Earth is not just the environment, the Earth is us, you touch the nature of interbeing.”
If we wish to save the planet and act in an environmentally sustainable way, then we must first act. We must make changes to our diets and our habits, and we must encourage others to do better. Thay’s words are important and insightful; they are an indictment for peaceful living and a peaceful word. They're so desperately needed, and I wish more people would listen to them. To put it simply, if the entire world did listen to them the Earth would be reformed.
Thay passed away last year, but I think it's fair to assume what his current stance would be regarding the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Thay would encourage peace, conversation and a kinder approach because the planet is at stake. We must always strive to do better and to be better. Achieving change is possible in the world, and I'm inclined to agree with his Zen approach that suggests we must first change ourselves before we can affect change at large. We must be beacons of peace and we must teach others the errors of their ways.
I absolutely loved this book. It is so inline with how I think and feel about advocacy, climate change and our environmental responsibility. I could not rate it any higher. I highly recommend this to other activists because it's insightful, energetic and entirely altruistic across species lines.
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January 22, 2022Thich Nhat Hanh died today, 22. January, 2022, 95 years old. He was one of the great teachers of this world, a peace activist, and a Buddhist monk. I think I’ve read more books by him, than any other Buddhist writer. He really left a positive mark on the world, and reading his writing has taught me a lot. Rest In Peace Thich Nhat Hanh.
July 9, 2021
Thay, as he is called, opines we are all part of everything and everyone, past and present, as the wave is part of the ocean. The author speaks of “two kinds of truth: the conventional truth and the ultimate truth. On the level of conventional truth we differentiate mind from matter…humans from other species…..but on the level of the ultimate truth this differentiation is not possible.” He speaks about mindfulness, compassion, and happiness. Happiness has many doors, but if we close all but one door, we may never be happy, so we should open all of the doors. Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for allowing me to review this thought-provoking book.
March 23, 2022
"I have learned that my home, my country, is the whole planet Earth."
I love this book so much! I read it slow in order to absorb all the beautiful words and spiritual wisdom. I'll be keeping it close to me and referring to it often. Thich Nhat Hanh teaches our deep interconnectedness with each other and our planet, and lovingly reminds us that we are nature. It is a gentle teaching of coming together as a community, but also about personal reflections on compassion, peace, and love.
"Nothing can be achieved without the energy of togetherness. "
I love this book so much! I read it slow in order to absorb all the beautiful words and spiritual wisdom. I'll be keeping it close to me and referring to it often. Thich Nhat Hanh teaches our deep interconnectedness with each other and our planet, and lovingly reminds us that we are nature. It is a gentle teaching of coming together as a community, but also about personal reflections on compassion, peace, and love.
"Nothing can be achieved without the energy of togetherness. "
February 23, 2022
This book, along with A Life on our Planet and Braiding Sweetgrass, are foundational books in creating a more peaceful, mindful and united world; they contain within them the answers to the crises we find ourselves in today. This is a book I recommend to anyone and everyone.
October 25, 2021
Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet is an inspiring book that offers an insightful Zen Buddhist viewpoint and approach to correcting our current climatic and environmental crises. In it, Thich Nhat Hanh and Sister True Dedication describe how, if more of us wake up to our interconnectedness with and the beauty of the earth, we can recognize not only how we are harming ourselves, each other, and the planet, but also find the motivation to change our minds and behaviors to prevent further harm, and correct the harm that’s been done. The book is divided into three parts: changing how we view our relationship with the earth, taking action to implement changes, and building communities that share these insights and viewpoints, respectively.
In Mahāyāna Buddhism, the Diamond Sutra provides four notions a person must abandon to realize life as it really is: the notions of self, human being, living thing, and life span. Once we internalize this teaching, we will be able to recognize our connection with the earth. I found this part really interesting, and realize it’s something you need to mull around and meditate on for a while.
Once we’ve awakened to our interconnectedness with the earth, we can take action. In Buddhism, it’s understood that before we can really help others we need to help ourselves. Fittingly, the majority of the action part involves self development. The Five Mindfulness Trainings are described as a powerful spiritual code of conduct, and I think they’re very good. The expanded list of Fourteen Mindfulness Trainings taught at Plum Village and which is a foundational doctrine of the Order of Interbeing is also very good and worth remembering. While discussing each of the five trainings in detail, the book discusses several other Buddhist trainings, concepts, and practices for cultivating our mental attitudes and outlooks to live more peaceful and enjoyable lives. Examples include the 4 Nutriments, Thay’s foundation of Engaged Buddhism, information of key Bodhisattvas, and the idea that we each have an inner meditator, artist, and warrior. I found all of this really interesting and enlightening, and plan to incorporate and read more about a lot of it.
Life can be stressful at times, especially with so much work to be done to help reverse our negative effects on the climate and environment. The third part of the book discusses why it’s so important to have a community—a sangha, in Buddhism—in which to find support and encouragement. We each need a source of mindful communication, deep listening, and loving speech. By forming communities with a collective consciousness based on the Five Mindfulness Trainings and the Six Togethernesses, we can establish, as quoted from Dr. Larry Ward, a lay Buddhist teacher, “‘communities of resilience’-communities where we make a conscious intent to live together ‘in kindness, openness, generosity, sanity, and love.’” I love this idea, and hope we can someday reach a point where more communities share a collective spirit of togetherness and healthier and more harmonious living both amongst ourselves and with the earth.
Overall I really enjoyed this book, and plan to add a copy to my holiday list for future reading, reflection, and reference. Thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley for letting me read an advanced copy! And thank you to Dear Thay and Sister for bringing this insightful book to fruition for all of us 🙏
In Mahāyāna Buddhism, the Diamond Sutra provides four notions a person must abandon to realize life as it really is: the notions of self, human being, living thing, and life span. Once we internalize this teaching, we will be able to recognize our connection with the earth. I found this part really interesting, and realize it’s something you need to mull around and meditate on for a while.
Once we’ve awakened to our interconnectedness with the earth, we can take action. In Buddhism, it’s understood that before we can really help others we need to help ourselves. Fittingly, the majority of the action part involves self development. The Five Mindfulness Trainings are described as a powerful spiritual code of conduct, and I think they’re very good. The expanded list of Fourteen Mindfulness Trainings taught at Plum Village and which is a foundational doctrine of the Order of Interbeing is also very good and worth remembering. While discussing each of the five trainings in detail, the book discusses several other Buddhist trainings, concepts, and practices for cultivating our mental attitudes and outlooks to live more peaceful and enjoyable lives. Examples include the 4 Nutriments, Thay’s foundation of Engaged Buddhism, information of key Bodhisattvas, and the idea that we each have an inner meditator, artist, and warrior. I found all of this really interesting and enlightening, and plan to incorporate and read more about a lot of it.
Life can be stressful at times, especially with so much work to be done to help reverse our negative effects on the climate and environment. The third part of the book discusses why it’s so important to have a community—a sangha, in Buddhism—in which to find support and encouragement. We each need a source of mindful communication, deep listening, and loving speech. By forming communities with a collective consciousness based on the Five Mindfulness Trainings and the Six Togethernesses, we can establish, as quoted from Dr. Larry Ward, a lay Buddhist teacher, “‘communities of resilience’-communities where we make a conscious intent to live together ‘in kindness, openness, generosity, sanity, and love.’” I love this idea, and hope we can someday reach a point where more communities share a collective spirit of togetherness and healthier and more harmonious living both amongst ourselves and with the earth.
Overall I really enjoyed this book, and plan to add a copy to my holiday list for future reading, reflection, and reference. Thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley for letting me read an advanced copy! And thank you to Dear Thay and Sister for bringing this insightful book to fruition for all of us 🙏
June 10, 2022
Instant favorite! I'm so glad I read this.
March 12, 2022
This is a most helpful, thorough, and encouraging compilation of writings from Thich Nhat Hanh on the subject of environmental action, which must begin within our minds because that's the origin of greed, overconsumption, a disconnect from nature, and other planet-destroying behaviors. Through mindful meditation, we can better understand and stop giving way to our bad habits, and start our activism there.
We also, he advises, need to study and practice calm and non-judgmental listening to each other, especially to people whose views seem to be opposite and antagonistic to ours, and he explains how to do this. A third emphasis is on building community, which allows individuals to accomplish much more in solidarity with others and be better able to avoid burnout.
I heartily recommend this book to everyone who cares about the future of our planet but has felt powerless. The commentaries on Nhat Hanh's writings by Sr. True Dedication are insightful as well.
We also, he advises, need to study and practice calm and non-judgmental listening to each other, especially to people whose views seem to be opposite and antagonistic to ours, and he explains how to do this. A third emphasis is on building community, which allows individuals to accomplish much more in solidarity with others and be better able to avoid burnout.
I heartily recommend this book to everyone who cares about the future of our planet but has felt powerless. The commentaries on Nhat Hanh's writings by Sr. True Dedication are insightful as well.
June 26, 2022
This book made me a better person.
October 3, 2021
It was in 1992 with "Peace is Every Step" that Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh became a household name and would spend a good majority of the rest of his adult life as the main inspiration for engaged Buddhism and, in his later years, immersed within his community known as Plum Village located in southwest France.
In 2014, Thich Nhat Hanh, or Thay, experienced a dramatic stroke that significantly impacted his daily life yet his presence as a teacher, spiritual guide, and powerful influence has remained even as he has now turned 94-years-old.
While "Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet" is noted as "by Thich Nhat Hanh" it should be noted that the book is less "by" Thay and more immersed in his life of teachings as brought to life those who surround him at Plum Village and, in particular, Sister True Dedication, one of his longtime students whom, it would seem, is most adept at communicating in a way reflective of the beloved Zen Master.
"Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet" immerses us in Thay's longtime teachings, poetry, and beliefs and applies them to this art, "saving the planet," by creating a regenerative world in which all life is respected.
If, like me, you've followed Thich Nhat Hanh's writings since 1992 then there's a strong likelihood that much of what is written here will feel familiar and will follow the consistent path that Thich Nhat Hanh has traveled throughout his life. There is both a challenge to it and a comfort to it - it is challenging because living this way feels counter to much of what is promoted here in my home country of the United States yet it is also comfortable because deep down in our being we know these to be truths.
It's hard not to contemplate Thich Nhat Hanh's own journey in adapting to a body over these past few years that has dramatically altered his own path. This was on my own often as I experienced "Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet" and absorbed its wise lessons on healing myself and healing my planet with mindfulness and Zen meditation.
If I were to sum it up overly succinctly, I would simply say "More Being, Less Doing."
Thay is very clear that our way of looking, seeing, and thinking determines every choice we make, the everyday actions we take or avoid, how we relate to those we love or oppose, and how we react in a crisis.
"Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet" is written in the voice of the beloved Thich Nhat Hanh even if it is not written in its entirety actually by the beloved Zen Master who, at 94-years-old, remains one of the most powerful Buddhist influences worldwide and who has seemingly entrusted his teachings to his equally beloved Plum Village community that carries it with tenderness and faithfulness.
These teachings are enlightening, wise, open-hearted, and written with the gentle clarity we've come to expect from Thay yet because there are different voices involved here there is a tonal shift within the writing that is subtle yet noticeable for those familiar with Thay's writings.
Sister True Dedication's writings are simply noted throughout the book with a "T.D.," a way of acknowledging her presence throughout "Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet" without us ever forgetting that these are the teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh being brought to life. While one can question slightly the notion of listing the book as "by Thich Nhat Hanh," after a lifetime of teaching these very lessons I lean toward affording the grace that in becoming attached to Thich Nhat Hanh exclusively we've kind of missed the point.
As seems to always be true of Buddhist teachings, there are times I find myself in slight disagreement with an observation or insight that feels overly simplified. Yet, there is so much that is brilliant here that by book's end I was grateful and in a reflective space contemplating this wisdom. The final chapters, in particular, are exhilarating as "Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet" takes the building blocks it has laid out and applies them in simple yet profound ways that had me uttering "Wow."
"Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet" is yet another memorable work from an author, activist, and Zen Master who has graced us with memorable works throughout his life. This time, he collectively shares his wisdom with students who have immersed there own lives in his teachings and together we all benefit as we seek to save our planet.
In 2014, Thich Nhat Hanh, or Thay, experienced a dramatic stroke that significantly impacted his daily life yet his presence as a teacher, spiritual guide, and powerful influence has remained even as he has now turned 94-years-old.
While "Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet" is noted as "by Thich Nhat Hanh" it should be noted that the book is less "by" Thay and more immersed in his life of teachings as brought to life those who surround him at Plum Village and, in particular, Sister True Dedication, one of his longtime students whom, it would seem, is most adept at communicating in a way reflective of the beloved Zen Master.
"Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet" immerses us in Thay's longtime teachings, poetry, and beliefs and applies them to this art, "saving the planet," by creating a regenerative world in which all life is respected.
If, like me, you've followed Thich Nhat Hanh's writings since 1992 then there's a strong likelihood that much of what is written here will feel familiar and will follow the consistent path that Thich Nhat Hanh has traveled throughout his life. There is both a challenge to it and a comfort to it - it is challenging because living this way feels counter to much of what is promoted here in my home country of the United States yet it is also comfortable because deep down in our being we know these to be truths.
It's hard not to contemplate Thich Nhat Hanh's own journey in adapting to a body over these past few years that has dramatically altered his own path. This was on my own often as I experienced "Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet" and absorbed its wise lessons on healing myself and healing my planet with mindfulness and Zen meditation.
If I were to sum it up overly succinctly, I would simply say "More Being, Less Doing."
Thay is very clear that our way of looking, seeing, and thinking determines every choice we make, the everyday actions we take or avoid, how we relate to those we love or oppose, and how we react in a crisis.
"Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet" is written in the voice of the beloved Thich Nhat Hanh even if it is not written in its entirety actually by the beloved Zen Master who, at 94-years-old, remains one of the most powerful Buddhist influences worldwide and who has seemingly entrusted his teachings to his equally beloved Plum Village community that carries it with tenderness and faithfulness.
These teachings are enlightening, wise, open-hearted, and written with the gentle clarity we've come to expect from Thay yet because there are different voices involved here there is a tonal shift within the writing that is subtle yet noticeable for those familiar with Thay's writings.
Sister True Dedication's writings are simply noted throughout the book with a "T.D.," a way of acknowledging her presence throughout "Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet" without us ever forgetting that these are the teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh being brought to life. While one can question slightly the notion of listing the book as "by Thich Nhat Hanh," after a lifetime of teaching these very lessons I lean toward affording the grace that in becoming attached to Thich Nhat Hanh exclusively we've kind of missed the point.
As seems to always be true of Buddhist teachings, there are times I find myself in slight disagreement with an observation or insight that feels overly simplified. Yet, there is so much that is brilliant here that by book's end I was grateful and in a reflective space contemplating this wisdom. The final chapters, in particular, are exhilarating as "Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet" takes the building blocks it has laid out and applies them in simple yet profound ways that had me uttering "Wow."
"Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet" is yet another memorable work from an author, activist, and Zen Master who has graced us with memorable works throughout his life. This time, he collectively shares his wisdom with students who have immersed there own lives in his teachings and together we all benefit as we seek to save our planet.
June 8, 2022
One of the most important books I have ever read. It is a lot to take in and one can’t just get through it fast, must be allowed to seep into your being. If everyone on the planet read this book now, we might be kinder and more compassionate to each other and the planet. Not dogma. Mindfulness. Compassion. I will be reading this particular book over and over, in bits and as a whole, for the rest of my life. Nightstand worthy.
June 10, 2024
הלוואי והייתי יכולה להראות את כמות התמונות והמירקורים שעשיתי לספר (נקרא דיגיטלי דרך ליבי).
אמאלה איזה ספר טוב! תמיד צריך לחשוב על זה שאנחנו לא הזן או החייה הנעלה הדברים והחיות לא נוצרו בשבילנו אלא לעזרתנו. למה לחשוב על מה אם...אחרי ש....מקום אחר.... שאנחנו עוד יכולים לעשות טוב ולהחזיר את הגלגל לאחורה. אז בואו ביחד נשמור על כדור הארץ המהמם שלנו ולא נהרוס אותו!
תזכרו שאם אפשר ->למחזר!
אם רוצים לקנות משהו->יד שנייה, להשאיל מהמשפחה או אם קונים לפחות במידתיות.
והכי חשוב זה להרים אחרינו כשיוצאים לטיולים!
אמאלה איזה ספר טוב! תמיד צריך לחשוב על זה שאנחנו לא הזן או החייה הנעלה הדברים והחיות לא נוצרו בשבילנו אלא לעזרתנו. למה לחשוב על מה אם...אחרי ש....מקום אחר.... שאנחנו עוד יכולים לעשות טוב ולהחזיר את הגלגל לאחורה. אז בואו ביחד נשמור על כדור הארץ המהמם שלנו ולא נהרוס אותו!
תזכרו שאם אפשר ->למחזר!
אם רוצים לקנות משהו->יד שנייה, להשאיל מהמשפחה או אם קונים לפחות במידתיות.
והכי חשוב זה להרים אחרינו כשיוצאים לטיולים!
June 18, 2022
I have read all of Thich Nhat Hanh's books that I could find. This title is also excellent.
December 7, 2023
Title:
Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet
Author: Thich Nhat Hanh
Genre: Non Fiction
Rating: 3.75
Pub Date: October 5, 2021
T H R E E • W O R D S
Insightful • Mindful • Nourishing
📖 S Y N O P S I S
In these troubling times we all yearn for a better world. But many of us feel powerless and uncertain what we can do. Thich Nhat Hanh (Thay) is blazingly clear: there’s one thing that we have the power to change—and which can make all the difference: our mind. How we see and think about things determines all the choices we make, the everyday actions we take (or avoid), how we relate to those we love (or oppose), and how we react in a crisis or when things don’t go our way.
Meditation trains us to see reality as it is. But many of us have a distorted view, caused by negative stories about the world and ourselves that have become ingrained. To use our mind for change, we must see clearly. Thay shows us how us to alter our way of thinking, to break free from the notions that block our way, to find truth and touch reality as it is. By breaking down these old stories, we gain the insight and energy we need to take the right kind of action to save the planet and ourselves.
💭 T H O U G H T S
Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet came to me at just the right moment in time. A well intentioned and insightful collection of daily mediations and examples of action in being and doing better for the planet. While 'Saving the Planet' instantly made me think climate change, this book covers a lot more ground than that. While at times it does become repetitive, it is preachy without being preachy. In a world that seems to always require us to be 'on', this book explores compassion and gratitude on a different level.
Thich Nhat Hanh offers a gentle spiritual guide focusing on the interconnectedness of all things. I was intrigued by the concept of inter-being and it left me with lots to reflect on. It is hopeful and offered me something I desperately needed at the time. Something I would be willing to explore more in the future.
📚 R E C O M M E N D • T O
• lost souls
• anyone wishing to explore Buddhism more
🔖 F A V O U R I T E • Q U O T E S
"I have practiced sitting and looking deeply, and what I saw is that, when they die, we also die with them. Because we inter-are with them. It is like when someone we love dies, a little part of us also dies; somehow we die with them. Those who die in natural disasters have died for us, and we are alive for them. Depending on our way of living now, their death can mean something. As we continue to life, they continue to live with us. We carry them all in us. With this insight of interbeing, we can have peace."
"Observation tells us it is impossible to pass from something into nothing, to go from someone to no one. There is only continued manifestation in different forms. Before we were born, we were already there, and, after we die, we will continue to be there. Nothing can pass from the realm of being into the realm of non-being. As the scientist Lavoisier discovered, 'Nothing is created, nothing is lost, everything transforms.'"
Author: Thich Nhat Hanh
Genre: Non Fiction
Rating: 3.75
Pub Date: October 5, 2021
T H R E E • W O R D S
Insightful • Mindful • Nourishing
📖 S Y N O P S I S
In these troubling times we all yearn for a better world. But many of us feel powerless and uncertain what we can do. Thich Nhat Hanh (Thay) is blazingly clear: there’s one thing that we have the power to change—and which can make all the difference: our mind. How we see and think about things determines all the choices we make, the everyday actions we take (or avoid), how we relate to those we love (or oppose), and how we react in a crisis or when things don’t go our way.
Meditation trains us to see reality as it is. But many of us have a distorted view, caused by negative stories about the world and ourselves that have become ingrained. To use our mind for change, we must see clearly. Thay shows us how us to alter our way of thinking, to break free from the notions that block our way, to find truth and touch reality as it is. By breaking down these old stories, we gain the insight and energy we need to take the right kind of action to save the planet and ourselves.
💭 T H O U G H T S
Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet came to me at just the right moment in time. A well intentioned and insightful collection of daily mediations and examples of action in being and doing better for the planet. While 'Saving the Planet' instantly made me think climate change, this book covers a lot more ground than that. While at times it does become repetitive, it is preachy without being preachy. In a world that seems to always require us to be 'on', this book explores compassion and gratitude on a different level.
Thich Nhat Hanh offers a gentle spiritual guide focusing on the interconnectedness of all things. I was intrigued by the concept of inter-being and it left me with lots to reflect on. It is hopeful and offered me something I desperately needed at the time. Something I would be willing to explore more in the future.
📚 R E C O M M E N D • T O
• lost souls
• anyone wishing to explore Buddhism more
🔖 F A V O U R I T E • Q U O T E S
"I have practiced sitting and looking deeply, and what I saw is that, when they die, we also die with them. Because we inter-are with them. It is like when someone we love dies, a little part of us also dies; somehow we die with them. Those who die in natural disasters have died for us, and we are alive for them. Depending on our way of living now, their death can mean something. As we continue to life, they continue to live with us. We carry them all in us. With this insight of interbeing, we can have peace."
"Observation tells us it is impossible to pass from something into nothing, to go from someone to no one. There is only continued manifestation in different forms. Before we were born, we were already there, and, after we die, we will continue to be there. Nothing can pass from the realm of being into the realm of non-being. As the scientist Lavoisier discovered, 'Nothing is created, nothing is lost, everything transforms.'"
December 29, 2021
I was first introduced to Thich Nhat Hanh with his book Peace Is Every Step in 1992. I must have bought it right when it came out and still have it on my shelf. It’s a classic. It was one of my introductions to Buddhism, mindfulness, meditation, and a quest for inner peace.
30 years later I saw this book, and trusted that regardless of the topic, it would be a book where I could be a learner.Thay (as his friends call him) had a stroke in 2014 and is non-verbal.This is a book he had talked about prior to his stroke. Members of his community put it together. It alternates between Thay’s writings/teachings and Sister True Dedication’s (a monk and student of Thay) reflections on the teachings and how she has experiences them.
I felt like this was a primer in Buddhism. The more connected we are to ourselves and each other the more connected we will be to Mother Earth. The content is rich a d it took me a couple of weeks to listen to this. I did walk away with some big ideas (the five remembrances) and a renewed interest in and commitment to developing a mindfulness/meditation practice. I found myself replaying certain sections so I could take notes.there were two narrators,one read Thay’s teachings and the other was Sister True Dedication herself. They did an excellent job.
Thanks to Harper Audio for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
30 years later I saw this book, and trusted that regardless of the topic, it would be a book where I could be a learner.Thay (as his friends call him) had a stroke in 2014 and is non-verbal.This is a book he had talked about prior to his stroke. Members of his community put it together. It alternates between Thay’s writings/teachings and Sister True Dedication’s (a monk and student of Thay) reflections on the teachings and how she has experiences them.
I felt like this was a primer in Buddhism. The more connected we are to ourselves and each other the more connected we will be to Mother Earth. The content is rich a d it took me a couple of weeks to listen to this. I did walk away with some big ideas (the five remembrances) and a renewed interest in and commitment to developing a mindfulness/meditation practice. I found myself replaying certain sections so I could take notes.there were two narrators,one read Thay’s teachings and the other was Sister True Dedication herself. They did an excellent job.
Thanks to Harper Audio for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 10, 2022
A bit cobbled together, it seemed. Re-purposing of material to suit the climate questions facing us was a bit vague. Of course, the teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh apply universally. But it just felt like this book was not really created with a coherent, purposeful integration of those teachings into the question of activism around climate change. It's all there - Thay's wisdom - so still well worth the read.
December 13, 2021
A bit misleading as it's not really "by" Thich Nhat Hahn - it's a compilation of some of his teachings, Buddhist stories, and personal tales and reflections from one of his students. And while they are all very interesting and useful in a general sense, only some have a strong correlation to "saving the planet." I had much higher hopes.
February 4, 2023
I would recommend this book to everyone. I read it slowly and thoughtfully so that I could digest and metabolize every single word. This book was mind shifting and so helpful in charting my own path to being a good human
July 30, 2024
beautiful, made me cry several times. another book that I sat with for several months, reading in small bites.
assorted quotes below:
Thay is blazingly clear: there's one thing we have the power to change, which will make all the difference, and that is our mind. Our mind is the instrument with which we engage and interact with the world; it holds our despair and fears, our hopes and dreams. Our mind's way of seeing determines the decisions and actions we take or avoid, how we relate to those we love or oppose, and how we respond in a crisis. In Buddhism we often say that with our mind we create the world. Our perceptions are conditioned by language and culture and by society's tendency to put reality into boxes and categories that simply don't fit. These discriminating labels limit our clarity and our action to protect the planet and prevent us from living in harmony with each other and with the world.
We may want the world to wake up and act. But what kind of awakening would actually be helpful?
What do we need to wake up to?
“It’s unbelievably hard to stop and step back. It may even be scary. The fact it, it’s rare to get a chance to challenge the deeply held beliefs society imprints on us.”
Many of us get swept away by events and situations around us and by whatever we see and hear. We lose ourselves. That is why we must also cultivate freedom from the crowd. When you have real freedom, even if the crowd is shouting or going in one direction, you can still be yourself. You’re not swept away by the emotions of the majority.
The world doesn’t need another ideology or doctrine, but the kind of awakening that can restore our spiritual strength.
There is no healing without relaxation. And relaxation means doing nothing, trying nothing. So, while “it” is breathing in—it’s not you who is breathing in—you just enjoy the breathing and say silently to yourself “healing is taking place” and when “it” is breathing out, you say “healing is taking place”
allow yourself to be held by the Earth, whether you are sitting, walking, lying down, or standing. allow the earth and sun to embrace you for healing to take place
Even if our protesting is very strong, we have to remember that protesting may not be able to remove the fear, the anger, and the craving in those we are protesting against. Real protest is to help someone wake up and take up a new direction. We can do this by setting an example. We create a community of peace and solidarity. We consume in a way that protects the planet. We speak and listen in a way that transforms anger and division.
Christiana Figueres: “If we do not control the complex landscape of a challenge (and we rarely do), the most powerful thing we can do is to change how we behave in that landscape, using ourself as a catalyst for overall change."
Larry Ward: “Don’t act like this is not your land. Don’t act like you can’t take charge because it’s obvious to me that the principalities and powers who are supposed to be in charge of this land at this moment are absolutely incapable. So, stand up! Act like you are a real human being. Don’t let the messengers of systemic racism define your life for you. Don’t let them define your power for you.
assorted quotes below:
Thay is blazingly clear: there's one thing we have the power to change, which will make all the difference, and that is our mind. Our mind is the instrument with which we engage and interact with the world; it holds our despair and fears, our hopes and dreams. Our mind's way of seeing determines the decisions and actions we take or avoid, how we relate to those we love or oppose, and how we respond in a crisis. In Buddhism we often say that with our mind we create the world. Our perceptions are conditioned by language and culture and by society's tendency to put reality into boxes and categories that simply don't fit. These discriminating labels limit our clarity and our action to protect the planet and prevent us from living in harmony with each other and with the world.
We may want the world to wake up and act. But what kind of awakening would actually be helpful?
What do we need to wake up to?
“It’s unbelievably hard to stop and step back. It may even be scary. The fact it, it’s rare to get a chance to challenge the deeply held beliefs society imprints on us.”
Many of us get swept away by events and situations around us and by whatever we see and hear. We lose ourselves. That is why we must also cultivate freedom from the crowd. When you have real freedom, even if the crowd is shouting or going in one direction, you can still be yourself. You’re not swept away by the emotions of the majority.
The world doesn’t need another ideology or doctrine, but the kind of awakening that can restore our spiritual strength.
There is no healing without relaxation. And relaxation means doing nothing, trying nothing. So, while “it” is breathing in—it’s not you who is breathing in—you just enjoy the breathing and say silently to yourself “healing is taking place” and when “it” is breathing out, you say “healing is taking place”
allow yourself to be held by the Earth, whether you are sitting, walking, lying down, or standing. allow the earth and sun to embrace you for healing to take place
Even if our protesting is very strong, we have to remember that protesting may not be able to remove the fear, the anger, and the craving in those we are protesting against. Real protest is to help someone wake up and take up a new direction. We can do this by setting an example. We create a community of peace and solidarity. We consume in a way that protects the planet. We speak and listen in a way that transforms anger and division.
Christiana Figueres: “If we do not control the complex landscape of a challenge (and we rarely do), the most powerful thing we can do is to change how we behave in that landscape, using ourself as a catalyst for overall change."
Larry Ward: “Don’t act like this is not your land. Don’t act like you can’t take charge because it’s obvious to me that the principalities and powers who are supposed to be in charge of this land at this moment are absolutely incapable. So, stand up! Act like you are a real human being. Don’t let the messengers of systemic racism define your life for you. Don’t let them define your power for you.
May 25, 2022
how could i debate or question Thay. Each book of his gifts something special.. i will always be thankful for what Thay has taught and continues to teach me 🤍
July 24, 2025
Whenever I crash out I will read this book again. It brings out the love and kindness in me.
March 2, 2023
2.5. Check out @groovygenregirls on Instagram for my full review
April 12, 2024
A must-read for anyone who is trying to heal themselves and the world around them. <3
January 7, 2022
This is a wonderful collection of Thich Nhat Hanh's previously published words on a variety of topics that can be related to saving our planet (and our civilization). Sister True Dedication, at the end of each segment, brings the message forward and focuses it on today's issues. There is also a wonderful, albeit brief Afterword from Sister Chan Khong.
I deeply appreciate all of the works by Thich Nhat Hanh. The value of this work is in bringing together his messages from over the decades of his practice to shine a light on the path forward in today's environment. Sister True Dedication does a masterful job weaving it all together.
I deeply appreciate all of the works by Thich Nhat Hanh. The value of this work is in bringing together his messages from over the decades of his practice to shine a light on the path forward in today's environment. Sister True Dedication does a masterful job weaving it all together.
October 22, 2021
Important and timely book!
In his usual eloquent style, with grace and ease, Thich Nhat Hanh addresses climate change and the great problems that seem to threaten our society, and shows us how we can address them from the inside out!
In his usual eloquent style, with grace and ease, Thich Nhat Hanh addresses climate change and the great problems that seem to threaten our society, and shows us how we can address them from the inside out!
March 10, 2023
Thich Nhat Hanh provides a convincing arguement for secular spirituality. I read it for the environmental aspect but, surprisingly, came away with a greater sense of self-worth and a renewed meaning to life. Definitely worth reading!
February 15, 2025
I’ve read this before and felt compelled to reread it again. (2/15/25)
Heard of this author for years and this book is amazing. I listened to the audiobook and I may buy a physical copy because there’s so much I want to reread.
Heard of this author for years and this book is amazing. I listened to the audiobook and I may buy a physical copy because there’s so much I want to reread.
May 11, 2022
Wonderful. I will definitely reread.
July 30, 2022
En fantastisk bog som forholder sig til mange aspekter og pointer ift zenbuddhisme
September 1, 2022
One of the most important books I have read in my life.
I hear the voice of Thay reading the words. The little man with so much power and wisdom. The book of his voice such a transformative treasure. So simple. But cutting so deep.
We have so much work to do to wake up together and save the planet. But are tired because we don’t cultivate compassion, love, our nourishment and motivation. We are tired because we lose ourself. Because we don’t take time to replenish our compassion. Love is the fuel of everything. Love is compassion.
There is nothing esoteric in this book. Just short sentences telling you to breathe and listen truly, so that you can transform your suffering and go on to transform the suffering of others and save the world. One breath at a time. With every step I am home. With every breath I am safe, grounded in this Earth and it’s wonderous beauty. With every breath I smile.
This book is such a suitable parting gift, as Thay has left his human body this year. The book is both very strongly his soft gentle firm voice, as well as a collaborative work with the Plum Village monastic community, in particular sister True Dedication. It has very clear instructions. Short explanations. Pointing out a clear path to follow.
If you are not touched by this work, getting ready to get up with a smile in the morning and save the Earth, I don’t know what will. We are so many bodhisattvas. What are we waiting for?? I don’t know anyone else who can convey urgency with such softness and calm. Our society is collapsing. But we are ready. Together. In community. With hearts full of never ending compassion.
I hear the voice of Thay reading the words. The little man with so much power and wisdom. The book of his voice such a transformative treasure. So simple. But cutting so deep.
We have so much work to do to wake up together and save the planet. But are tired because we don’t cultivate compassion, love, our nourishment and motivation. We are tired because we lose ourself. Because we don’t take time to replenish our compassion. Love is the fuel of everything. Love is compassion.
There is nothing esoteric in this book. Just short sentences telling you to breathe and listen truly, so that you can transform your suffering and go on to transform the suffering of others and save the world. One breath at a time. With every step I am home. With every breath I am safe, grounded in this Earth and it’s wonderous beauty. With every breath I smile.
This book is such a suitable parting gift, as Thay has left his human body this year. The book is both very strongly his soft gentle firm voice, as well as a collaborative work with the Plum Village monastic community, in particular sister True Dedication. It has very clear instructions. Short explanations. Pointing out a clear path to follow.
If you are not touched by this work, getting ready to get up with a smile in the morning and save the Earth, I don’t know what will. We are so many bodhisattvas. What are we waiting for?? I don’t know anyone else who can convey urgency with such softness and calm. Our society is collapsing. But we are ready. Together. In community. With hearts full of never ending compassion.
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