June 22, 2020
Zen teacher Goddard combines Buddhist teachings with the sport of running in her brisk, appealing debut. A runner of 35 years and a Zen practitioner for over 20, Goddard uses meditation to remain present and “awake” throughout the day, whether at rest or on the move. She explores the relationship between Zen practice and running using the Buddhist Eightfold Path, focusing on right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration: “focus and consistency make it possible to push against the edges of what we think we know.” Goddard asks readers to investigate their intent, commitment, and discipline in regard to running, and how those same principles relate to other aspects of their lives. At the end of each chapter, she provides meditation instructions for formal zazen sitting meditation as well as physical practices including running form, abdominal breathing, blind running, and visualization exercises. Though running is Goddard’s jumping-off point, her main focus is on teaching basic tenets of Buddhist ideas and applying them to the body and mind in motion. Buddhist runners will enjoy this accessible, conversational companion.