Shaolin Spirit

The Way to Self-Mastery

By: Shi Heng Yi, Caroline Waight - translator

Narrated by: Shi Heng Yi

Brought to you by Penguin.

A contemporary Shaolin Master shares the wisdom and philosophy of the ancient tradition that has captured the imagination of millions worldwide

What do you imagine when you think of Shaolin? Ferociously strong warriors flying through the air?

Shaolin is more than just the physical expression of martial arts. Rooted in Zen and Tao philosophy, it also offers a way of reconnecting our minds with our bodies through meditative movement to cultivate the core virtues of discipline and perseverance.

In this book, Shi Heng Yi, founder of Shaolin Temple Europe and lay disciple of the Songshan Shaolin Temple, introduces us to the contemplative practice that underpins Shaolin – a way of life that has existed for over 1,500 years – and shows how it can help us today.

Having experienced the challenges of modern life as a young man, Shi Heng Yi understands the pressures only too well. Here, he highlights twelve key practices to help improve sleep, relationships and decision-making, as much as balance, flexibility and strength, offering a powerful pathway to self-mastery and understanding.

© Shi Heng Yi 2025 (P) Penguin Audio 2025

Critic reviews

Striking, transformative, very very necessary . . . I’d highly recommend (Steven Bartlett)

His new book… offers lessons to help improve sleep, relationships and decision-making, and celebrates the benefits of discipline and perseverance (Michael Segalov)

Brilliant, amazing, golden nugget after golden nugget... this is a game changer (Davina McCall)

A book the will improve your mental and physical health!

Outstanding book! It goes through ground principles of the Shaolin spirit hat you can apply in your daily life and get free of stress, get rid of painful muscles and become strong physically and mentally. The author is one of the best modern philosophers!
I recommend this book to anyone who wants to improve physical and mental health!