Shoukei Matsumoto

A thoughtful exploration of integrating Buddhist principles into modern life and work. Written as a dialogue between a businessperson and a temple priest, the book bridges ancient wisdom and contemporary challenges. Through mindful listening, daily practices, and a focus on interconnection, it provides practical guidance on achieving balance, purpose, and peace amidst life’s noise. Readers are invited to reflect on the meaning of happiness, the value of relationships, and how small, mindful acts can lead to profound change. Written in a reflective, conversational tone, Matsumoto blends the storytelling approach of a dialogue between two characters—a businessperson and a temple priest—with practical insights. The narrative is deeply rooted in Buddhist philosophy, yet it is simplified and contextualized for a modern audience, especially those engaged in professional and urban life. The author uses vivid imagery, anecdotes, and analogies to make abstract spiritual concepts accessible and to illustrate how mindfulness, interconnectedness, and simplicity can be implemented by anyone seeking balance between work and personal well-being. The inclusion of real-world practices like mindful listening, cleaning, and gratitude rituals makes the book practical, not just philosophical. Work Like a Monk beautifully bridges ancient wisdom and contemporary challenges. It is a practical guide to achieving balance, purpose and peace amidst life’s noise.

Life is full of endless noise – from your phone, the buzz of people, traffic and television. You are also subject to internal noise – worries, fears, negative emotions and racing thoughts. Fuelling stress and anxiety, this overload is harmful to your mental and physical health, distracting you from living a fulfilling, purposeful and peaceful life. Drawing on the practices, beliefs and teachings of Buddhism, this book explains the causes of the 'noise', looking at your relationship with people, money and technology. It reveals the benefits of turning your consciousness inwards and with a new awareness teaches you how to quieten your mind. Offering powerful insights, simple tips and helpful advice, A Quiet Mind is the key to achieving ease, finding balance and calm in a chaotic world.

Little known fact: Buddhist Monks are amazing at cleaning and tidying. In this one-of-a-kind guide to cleaning your home, Buddhist monk Shoukei Matsumoto reveals how to make your home as spotless as it is tranquil and peaceful. For Buddhist monks cleaning well is a cardinal skill and, in A Monk's Guide to a Clean House and Mind, readers will discover their never-before-shared cleaning pro tips. In the Zen Buddhist tradition, true enlightenment is impossible if your home has even a speck of dust and, as such, Buddhist monks have much to teach us lay people about achieving a truly Zen clean. A Monk's Guide to a Clean House and Mind features charming illustrations and step-by-step instructions on such essential household cleansing tips as: First, Air It Out: Before cleaning anything Monk's first open the temple windows to purify the air and let the crisp morning breeze in. Don't Procrastinate: 'Zengosaidan ' is a Zen expression meaning that one should put all their efforts into each day so they have no regrets. In the context of cleaning, this means don't put off cleaning those dishes you've left in the sink. Remember to Put On Your Samue: Samue robes are worn by Japanese monks when they perform their daily duties of cleaning and looking after the temple. Easy to move in and to wash and care for, they are the perfect cleaning attire. From cleaning up everything from your kitchen sink, toilet, and that pile of unidentified stuff in the corner of your garage to your mind, body, and spirit, this book will guide you in creating a home environment that will calm your thoughts and nourish your soul.

Cleanliness is next to enlightenment. In this Japanese bestseller a Buddhist monk explains the traditional meditative techniques that will help cleanse not only your house - but your soul. Live clean. Feel calm. Be happy. We remove dust to sweep away our worldly cares. We live simply and take time to contemplate the self, mindfully living each moment. It's not just monks that need to live this way. Everyone in today's busy world needs it. In Japan, cleanliness is next to enlightenment. This bestselling guide by a Zen Buddhist monk draws on ancient traditions to show you how a few simple changes to your daily habits - from your early morning routine to preparingfood, from respecting the objects around you to working together as a team -will not only make your home calmer and cleaner, but will leave you feeling refreshed, happier and more fulfilled.