The Zen Monkey and the Lotus Flower: 52 Stories to Relieve Stress, Stop Negative Thoughts, Find Happiness, and Live Your Best Life

This is not a usual book for me. It was recommended as a book club read and I was curious. I have practised yoga for many years and am familiar with some of the basic principles of mindfulness and meditation but was interested to learn more.This book was printed in 2024. It has 157 pages an contains 52 short stories. Each story is usually around a page long and is followed by a similar length explanation.There are several principles that are explored and they are looked at in different ways. That can lead to a feeling of repetition if you read them quickly - read the stories gradually (as they are meant to be read) and the messages are gently reinforced. There are important life lessons here which are worth taking time to consider. I got drawn into the messages and am sure that this will stay with me for some time.I'm not sure this book will change my life but it will encourage any reader to approach problems in a slightly different way. It might also promote a change of attitude.The book is perfect to dip in and out of. It actually suggests you read one story each week - this would give time to ponder and digest before moving on. The stories are very easy to read and the explanations are clear.As you progress through the book there are some useful tips that can be used in your life - one example being "try to praise or encourage at least one person every day", this is not hard to do and makes a big difference to both people.Each story starts with an illustration that perfectly sums up the subject of the tale. It is worth pausing on the drawing to consider its artistic quality before moving on.

A really lovely book, stories hold so much meaning, I’ve read the first few stories and finding them very enjoyable. Very easy to understand.

A fantastic little book which has very thought provoking short stories, a must read. It really helps with mindfulness.

Very good book,makes you think very useful.A very good read.

If you’re looking for a book that will make you think deeply, this book is a perfect fit. It challenges you to reconsider the way you approach both your thoughts and the world, leaving you with a sense of clarity and purpose.

I was recommended this book to buy for my daughter who is going off to university. It is a beautiful little book and the stories are heartwarming. She reads a little story at night and it grounds and calms her, so pleased I got it for her.

Lovely book !!!!!!!

Lovely little book very thought provoking and great for meditation I use one story each day .