{"product_id":"what-is-this-ancient-questions-modern-minds-0473474972","title":"What is this?: Ancient questions for modern minds","description":"\u003cp\u003eZen philosophy isn't about abstract theories—it's about direct, lived experience. In their latest collaboration, Martine and Stephen Batchelor bring the ancient practice of koan contemplation into the 21st century, offering readers a way to cut through mental clutter and engage with life as it is.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eAbout the Authors\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eMartine and Stephen Batchelor have dedicated their careers to making Buddhist wisdom accessible. Their combined expertise spans scholarly rigour and practical application, ensuring that readers gain both intellectual depth and actionable insights.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhat is Zen Philosophy?\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eRooted in the Buddhist tradition, Zen philosophy prioritises direct experience over intellectual speculation. It invites us to ask profound questions that disrupt our habitual thinking. This book, \u003cstrong\u003eWhat is this?: Ancient questions for modern minds\u003c\/strong\u003e, uses classic Zen koans to prompt personal investigation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eKey Themes in This Book\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eAt the heart of the book is the koan 'What is this?', a seemingly simple question that reveals layers of meaning. Themes such as impermanence, non-attachment, and the nature of reality are explored not as doctrines but as invitations to look deeper. The Batchelors show how these ancient inquiries can reshape our understanding of everyday experiences.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eHow This Book Can Enhance Your Mindfulness Practice\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor those who meditate, this book acts as a guide to deepen your practice. It presents contemplative exercises and mental experiments that challenge fixed perspectives. Whether you're just beginning or have years of experience, the authors encourage you to approach each koan with fresh eyes, making mindfulness a lived inquiry rather than a technique.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhat to Expect From This Book\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis book is an invitation to slow down and question what you take for granted. It doesn't offer easy answers but instead provides tools for seeing the world with new eyes. The material balances philosophical depth with everyday relevance, making it suitable for both newcomers and seasoned practitioners.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo I need to know about Zen before reading?\u003c\/strong\u003e Not at all—the book is written for beginners and experienced practitioners alike.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this a practical guide or a philosophical text?\u003c\/strong\u003e It blends both. There are practical reflections alongside philosophical inquiry.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does this compare to other works by the Batchelors?\u003c\/strong\u003e This book continues their tradition of making Zen accessible and relevant.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eSafety and Usage\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis book is an educational resource intended to encourage personal reflection. It is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or spiritual advice. If you are dealing with serious mental health concerns, please consult a qualified professional. The authors encourage readers to approach the material with an open mind and to integrate insights at their own pace.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Martine Batchelor \u0026 Stephen Batchelor","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48332568363246,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0816\/1158\/7822\/files\/61Lffiv0dqL._SL1360_b497e030-1d9e-46c1-b9cf-9e679c9a87bc.jpg?v=1784234048","url":"https:\/\/vitamin4ca.com\/products\/what-is-this-ancient-questions-modern-minds-0473474972","provider":"vitamin4ca","version":"1.0","type":"link"}