Journey to Center: Lessons in Unifying Body, Mind, and Spirit

by Thomas F. Crum

This practical guide introduces readers to the Zen principles Tom Crum has lived by and taught for many years. As a black belt in aikido, a motivational speaker, and an instructor in everything from mathematics to skiing, Crum learned that the key to success in any endeavor is mastering the art of "centering." He teaches here the vital techniques for achieving a more relaxed, energized, and integrated approach to our lives.

224 pages, Paperback

First published October 16, 1997

Reviews

[Sabine · Rating 5 out of 5]

As self motivation books go this one is up there with the best. The stories the author tells about his life are entertaining, interesting, and completely fun to read. But what really makes this book is how well he turns each of those experiences into a positive lesson on life. I found myslef think, hey wait I can be more centered.
Thomas Crum has a unique perspective on life, happiness, and the ability we have to control what our worlds will be like. And if you are not looking for self improvement I would reccommend this book just for the sheer fun and engrossing stories he has to tell from a camera stealing monkey, to dealing with John Denver's obsessive fans.

[Isaiah Minick · Rating 4 out of 5]

An aikido master and conflict resolution speaker teaching us how finding our center leads to a fulfilling and flowing life. Finding your center is a concept that allows for the person to be present in the moment, and taking action with your intuition, often going towards challenges with a peace of mind and body. Finding your center in relationships means not asking what you want or can get but seeing the other with appreciation of their extraordinariness. "Am I coming from a place of love or fear? from being open or being right? "

Theres lots of beautifully written chapters with stories, followed by some practical applications to find your own center. I particularly enjoyed the chapters talking about finding your center around death. The final chapter talks about finding your warrior spirit to stay centered all through life. We need to recognize the stories we tell ourselves that are limiting, meet these stories, thank them for the lesson and continue with our vision.

[Louisa]

scattered thoughts. some broad level ones about feeling like some books aren’t best engaged with intellectually, some acceptance of my confused relationship with evocative books and how “best” to read them. reminded of the art of somatic coaching, how the best work of the book is to center you in the moments you’re reading it. felt very conversational, heard his voice ring through, and miss that even among the fiction books i’ve been reading. leaving feeling hungry for more detail, but not in an insatiable or dissatisfied way - which is hard to feel after reading this book.

[Anamaria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved all the personal stories and old tales about monks that were abundant in this book! There were so many lessons and revelations that were discovered by centering yourself. Would highly recommend this book to anyone who is on the journey of mindfulness.

[Susie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Hmmmm - I didn't like this as much as the person who let me borrow his copy - I felt like it was Crum's - This happened to me and I was able to center yourself - and this is what happened - over and over and over - "just center yourself" like Nancy Reagan and "Just say No". Not to say he hasn't done some amazing things and maybe I just wasn't "centered" as I was reading this but it just felt like he was too puffed up about himself. He was friends with John Denver (I liked John Denver) and knew Treya Killam Wilbur.... and quoted some examples of how she was able to center - (she was remarkable) but for the most part - it wasn't anything new or that great or helpful for one's own life. Maybe I'll appreciate it more later.

[White · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tom Crum was a friend of John Denver. I heard of this book through reading stores of materials written by Denver. I was skeptical at first but soon discovered a connection with this book. It celebrates balance in ones thoughts, life, and attitude in order to bring about an inner peace. His philosophy measure both the physical and spiritual influences on emotional well being. I couldn't believe how true to reality this book was. It was like the author came out of nowhere too. This is a really good read for people who believe that we are more than we are as a single unit. We are one with not only the rest of what is but with ourselves. I loved this book. Sometimes, I refer back to it when life or people really get me down.

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Meditation for beginners. Breathing. Buddhism. Thieving monkeys.

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Profound insights from a warrior in the world. providing direct access to essence value creation and happiness.

[Leslie Shafer · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story about the bear and the raspberry really stuck with me- and I use it often as a technique to be grateful and stay calm!