SPORTS & RECREATION

The Zen of Climbing

by Francis Sanzaro
Saraband. Aug. 2023. 224p. ISBN 9781913393717. pap. $14.95. SPORTS
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Climber Sanzaro (Society Elsewhere: Why the Gravest Threat to Humanity Will Come from Within) says that when boulder-climbing athletes encounter problems, they can apply Zen Buddhism principles, striking in their simplicity and immediacy, to quiet their minds and activate their body’s wisdom. As with any sport, rock climbing has its share of insider lingo, and this book has quite a bit of it, which will appeal to its practitioners. The terms, however, may puzzle a general audience, so a glossary of climbing terms would’ve been helpful. One of the book’s highlights is that the author writes simple but elegant, vivid prose to make his case for a unified approach to movement and mind.
VERDICT An inspiring book aimed at rock climbers and other athletes that’s ideal for both spirituality and sports psychology sections. Its emphasis on the virtues of cultivating mind-body awareness will also appeal to readers interested in New Age wisdom.
Reviewed by Dorian Gossy , Jun 16, 2023
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