Don't Worry

February 1, 2022

Masuno (The Art of Simple Living), who leads a 450-year-old Zen Buddhist temple in Japan, brings wisdom and experience to his new book of pragmatic advice for simplifying life and reducing anxiety by employing Buddhist thought. Masuno's 48 lessons are broken into five parts, good for quick reference, and ask readers to consider whether aspects of their thinking are making them dissatisfied with themselves and others. He discusses thought habits that can create fear about concerns that don't really exist; this mentality is particularly fueled by overconsumption of negative information (like sensationalist news). Masuno also tells readers to remind themselves that suffering, in various forms, is ultimately a common, regular experience for all people, one that can't necessarily be ended or avoided. VERDICT Highly recommended for general readers interested in Eastern philosophy and open to learning practical approaches to dealing with anxiety. Masuno's useful advice is particularly needed in recent times.--Gary Medina

Copyright 2022 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

February 7, 2022
Masuno (The Art of Simple Living), the head priest of a Buddhist temple, delivers a Zen approach to eliminating worry and anxiety in this straightforward guide. Masuno shares 48 teachings that encourage readers to “focus only on the here and now” and “leave behind” their troubles so that they might become “calmer, more relaxed, and positive.” For example, the author recommends readers “pare down” their belongings because getting rid of material things stamps out the attachments that “cloud” one’s thoughts. Touting the benefits of forging one’s own path, Masuno says to stop comparing oneself to others and to “live by your own standards,” which are developed through experience. The author tells how to let go (“focus on ‘now’ ”), stay mindful (“don’t rush, don’t panic”), embrace one’s individuality (“accept your circumstances, whatever they may be”), and live in harmony with others (“admit errors right away”). Masuno’s spare prose embodies his message, and though some of his lessons can feel trite (“live in the moment”) others take an unexpected direction (“change the ‘air’ in your home”). Even when the advice is familiar, Masuno’s directness and wisdom make this worth a look.