Thich Nhat Hanh is a Vietnamese Buddhist monk, who is revered across the world for his powerful teachings on mindfulness, meditation, and peace. The 94-year-old has written over 100 books and is considered the father of ‘Engaged Buddhism’, a movement that links mindfulness practice with social action. Through his wisdom, he teaches us how to avoid conflict—both external and internal–and how through mindfulness, we can learn to live happily in the present moment and attain peace of mind. Through his books, Thich Nhat Hanh has changed the lives of innumerable people across the globe and given them a new outlook on life—one which is filled with positivity, love, compassion and self-awareness.
If you are aspiring to achieve inner peace, here are eight Thich Nhat Hanh books, which will enrich your life with a new meaning, especially in these troubled times.
Peace Is Every Step: The Path of Mindfulness in Everyday Life
Published in 1990, this book tells us how to make the best of every situation, no matter how difficult it is. The book is divided into three sections. Each section offers simple advice and techniques based on Thich Nhat Hanh’s personal experiences and observations. The author talks about the importance of being mindful while breathing and being aware of the mundane things we do in our daily lives. Happiness can be found even while taking a walk, driving a car or when you are in the kitchen. If you are someone who leads a busy life and wants to slow down, Peace is every step: The Path of Mindfulness in Everyday Life, can help you find inner peace and teach you how to appreciate life.
The Heart of the Buddha’s Teaching: Transforming Suffering into Peace, Joy, and Liberation
In this book, Thich Nhat Hanh talks about the role of suffering in the creation of compassion, joy and love. He shares the core teachings of Buddhism such as the Four Noble Truths, the Noble Eightfold Path, the Three Doors of Liberation, the Three Dharma Seals, and the Seven Factors of Awakening, and how applying them in your daily life can help you find bliss and happiness. For those who find it hard to let go of their painful memories, this book can serve as a guide to find relief from that pain.
You Are Here: Discovering the Magic of the Present Moment
This book teaches us how adopting the practice of mindfulness can help transform our lives. Thich Nhat Hanh shares a range of simple yet effective practices of cultivating mindfulness such as awareness of breathing, walking and deep listening. Understanding the power of the present moment can help you find peace and happiness even during difficult times. He writes in the book, “You have to realize that happiness is not something you find at the end of the road. You have to understand that it is here, now.”
A Handful of Quiet: Happiness in Four Pebbles
Originally published in 2008, this book can serve as a guide for teachers or parents who want to introduce meditation in the lives of children. In this book, Thich Nhat Hanh suggests using pebble meditation to handle difficult emotions, reduce stress, and boost concentration. Pebble meditation is a fun activity that you can try with your kids. It allows them to be hands-on and helps them connect with nature. If you are someone who wants to relax, attain peace and introduce meditation in the lives of your children, this book is perfect for you.
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