‘The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down’ by Haemin Sunim

Calm and poetic in tone, this book is full of wise, simple messages that made me nod my head and smile. Its short chapters, interwoven with illustrations and aphorisms, encourage readers to reflect on modern busyness and to prioritise meaningful relationships, purposeful pursuits, and being present in the Now.

Short take: As a Zen Buddhist monk and teacher, Sunim offers up accessible and practical advice on living a mindful, meaningful, and intentional life. He uses engaging metaphors, imagery and humour to convey messages of wisdom and truth. After reading this book from cover to cover, I am confident that everyone who reads it will take something positive and even profound away.

Parenting and Educational Approach:

Although not a purpose written parenting book, Sunim offers gentle reminders to approach children with patience, kindness and love. He emphasises the importance of being with our children so that they feel seen, heard and valued.
As a a lecturer and teacher, Sunim advocates for natural or free learning, meaning he encourages curiosity and lead-learning over didactic teaching.

Key Themes:

Mindfulness in Everyday Life. The book explores how mindfulness can be practiced in everyday activities, from walking to working, helping us cultivate peace, calm, and focus. One application of mindfulness is to be present with our emotions, rather than being engulfed by them, and to practice acceptance and non-judgement of our inner worlds.
Self-Compassion. Sunim encourages self-acceptance, letting go of guilt and perfectionism, and treating ourselves with the same kindness we offer to others.
Inner World over External Appearances. In a world that focuses heavily on beauty, appearance, money, success, and external images, Sunim encourages readers to nurture and prioritise their own inner worlds, and to form connections with others who are doing the same. One humorous analogy he uses is that the end of a sushi roll is often more tasty and satisfying than a perfectly cut piece from the middle.
Navigating Relationships with Awareness. Empathy, patience, and deep listening are said to be important for building and maintaining healthy relationships.
Redefining Success. Instead of measuring success by achievements, money, appearance or other external means, Sunim suggests finding contentment in balance, rest, meaningful connections, and purposeful experiences.

Overall Impression:

This accessible and succinct book by Haemin Sunim, a Zen monk and teacher, is full of practical advice and universal truths. Through short essays and aphorisms, Sunim shares wisdom on slowing down, cultivating self-compassion, and nurturing relationships that will help readers live a balanced and meaningful life.
Sunim writes with a non-judgemental, non-haughty tone. He uses metaphors and imagery that made me smile and laugh throughout the book. There is no pretence or superiority in his voice, just grounded understanding of the way of the world, and a gentle invitation to readers to join him on his journey of enlightened understanding.
This is a book that you can read from cover to cover, or dip in and out of in idle moments. I cannot recommend it more highly.