Zen Macrobiotics by George Ohsawa - The Classic Book that Introduced Macrobiotics to the West

Zen Macrobiotics by George Ohsawa PDF Download

If you are interested in learning more about zen macrobiotics, a system of holistic principles and practices that guides choices in nutrition, activity, and lifestyle for physical, emotional, mental, social, and environmental health, you may want to read Zen Macrobiotics by George Ohsawa. This book is considered one of the classics in the field of macrobiotics and introduces the philosophy and lifestyle that was new and innovative during Ohsawa's time. In this article, we will give you an overview of what zen macrobiotics is, who George Ohsawa was, what his book is about, how you can download it in PDF format, and how you can practice zen macrobiotics in your daily life.

Zen Macrobiotics By George Ohsawa Pdf Download

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What is Zen Macrobiotics?

Zen macrobiotics is a term coined by George Ohsawa to describe his approach to macrobiotics that combines elements of Zen Buddhism and traditional Oriental medicine. Zen macrobiotics is based on the idea that everything in the universe is composed of two opposite but complementary forces: yin and yang. Yin represents expansion, coldness, darkness, passivity, femininity, etc., while yang represents contraction, heat, light, activity, masculinity, etc. By balancing these forces in our body and environment through proper diet and lifestyle choices, we can achieve health, happiness, peace, and harmony.

Zen macrobiotics also emphasizes the importance of appreciation and gratitude towards food. Ohsawa believed that a plant-based diet connected us to nature and that a positive attitude with food achieved balance and happiness. He also advocated for spiritual awakening through zen macrobiotics by applying simple principles such as orderliness, naturalness, non-attachment, self-reliance, etc. Zen macrobiotics aims to help us realize our true nature as one with the universe.

Who is George Ohsawa?

George Ohsawa, whose original name was Nyoichi Sakurazawa, was born in 1893 in Japan. He suffered from various illnesses as a child and was diagnosed with tuberculosis as a young adult. He was given only six months to live, but he managed to cure himself by following the teachings of Sagen Ishizuka, a Japanese doctor who advocated a natural diet based on whole grains, vegetables, and sea salt. Ohsawa became a disciple of Ishizuka and later developed his own system of macrobiotics that incorporated elements of Zen Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and other Eastern philosophies.

Ohsawa traveled extensively around the world to spread his message of macrobiotics and wrote more than 300 books on the subject. He founded several macrobiotic associations and schools in Japan, France, the United States, and other countries. He influenced many people, including celebrities such as John Lennon, Yoko Ono, Steve Jobs, Madonna, etc. He died in 1966 at the age of 73.

What is Zen Macrobiotics by George Ohsawa?

Zen Macrobiotics by George Ohsawa is one of his most popular and influential books. It was first published in mimeographed format in 1960 and later in paperback format in 1965 by the Ohsawa Foundation in Los Angeles. It introduced macrobiotics to the Western audience and attracted many followers who were looking for a way to feel healthy physically, spiritually, and emotionally.

In the book, Ohsawa explains the basic principles and practices of zen macrobiotics, such as the concept of yin and yang, the order of the universe, the seven stages of disease, the ten diets, the use of sea salt and tamari soy sauce, the importance of chewing food well, etc. He also provides recipes, menus, testimonials, anecdotes, and exercises to illustrate his points. The book is written in a simple and direct style that reflects Ohsawa's personality and charisma.

The book is not without its flaws and controversies. Some of Ohsawa's claims are not supported by scientific evidence or are outdated by modern standards. For example, he discourages drinking water or eating fruits and dairy products. He also advocates for a very restrictive diet that consists only of grains (Diet No. 7), which he considers the best macrobiotic diet. However, this diet is not sustainable or practical for most people and can lead to nutritional deficiencies and health problems.

Therefore, it is important to read Zen Macrobiotics by George Ohsawa with a critical mind and an open heart. The book is not meant to be followed dogmatically or literally, but rather as a source of inspiration and guidance. It is also advisable to consult with a qualified macrobiotic counselor or practitioner before making any drastic changes to your diet or lifestyle.

How to Download Zen Macrobiotics by George Ohsawa PDF?

If you want to read Zen Macrobiotics by George Ohsawa in PDF format, you have two options: free download or paid download. Here are some websites that offer both options with their pros and cons.

Free Download Options

• Archive.org: This website provides free access to millions of books, movies, music, and other digital content. You can download Zen Macrobiotics by George Ohsawa PDF for free from this link: https://archive.org/details/zenmacrobiotics00ohsa. The pros are that it is easy to use and has no ads or registration required. The cons are that the quality of the PDF may not be very good and that it may not be legal to download copyrighted material without permission.

• PDF Drive: This website is a search engine for PDF files that allows you to find and download millions of books for free. You can download Zen Macrobiotics by George Ohsawa PDF for free from this link: https://www.pdfdrive.com/zen-macrobiotics-the-art-of-rejuvenation-and-longevity-e158005336.html. The pros are that it has a large collection of books and that it has no ads or registration required. The cons are that the quality of the PDF may not be very good and that it may not be legal to download copyrighted material without permission.

You can download Zen Macrobiotics by George Ohsawa PDF for free from this link: https://b-ok.cc/book/3423011/4f0c9f. The pros are that it has a large collection of books and that it has no ads or registration required. The cons are that the quality of the PDF may not be very good and that it may not be legal to download copyrighted material without permission.

Paid Download Options

• Amazon.com: This website is one of the most popular online retailers that sells books, ebooks, and other products. You can buy Zen Macrobiotics by George Ohsawa PDF for $14.95 from this link: https://www.amazon.com/Zen-Macrobiotics-Art-Rejuvenation-Longevity/dp/0918860547. The pros are that it has a high quality of the PDF and that it is legal to buy and download the book. The cons are that it is not free and that you need to have an Amazon account and a Kindle device or app to read the book.

• Ohsawa Macrobiotics: This website is the official online store of the George Ohsawa Macrobiotic Foundation, a non-profit organization that promotes macrobiotics and Ohsawa's teachings. You can buy Zen Macrobiotics by George Ohsawa PDF for $14.95 from this link: https://ohsawamacrobiotics.com/product/zen-macrobiotics/. The pros are that it has a high quality of the PDF and that it supports the foundation's mission and activities. The cons are that it is not free and that you need to have a credit card or a PayPal account to buy the book.

• SHI Macrobiotics: This website is the official online store of the Strengthening Health Institute, a non-profit organization that offers macrobiotic education and counseling. You can buy Zen Macrobiotics by George Ohsawa PDF for $14.95 from this link: https://shimacrobiotics.org/product/zen-macrobiotics-from-george-ohsawa/. The pros are that it has a high quality of the PDF and that it supports the institute's mission and activities. The cons are that it is not free and that you need to have a credit card or a PayPal account to buy the book.

How to Practice Zen Macrobiotics?

If you want to practice zen macrobiotics in your daily life, you need to follow some basic guidelines and principles that Ohsawa outlined in his book. Here are some of them:

Zen Macrobiotic Diet

The zen macrobiotic diet is based on eating whole grains, vegetables, beans, sea vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and fermented foods. It avoids or minimizes animal products, dairy products, refined sugars, processed foods, stimulants, and chemicals. It also follows these rules:

• Eat only when hungry and stop before feeling full.

• Chew each mouthful at least 50 times or until it becomes liquid.

• Eat in a relaxed and quiet atmosphere, without distractions or conversations.

• Eat locally grown and seasonal foods as much as possible.

• Use natural seasonings such as sea salt, tamari soy sauce, miso, vinegar, etc.

• Cook foods using simple methods such as steaming, boiling, baking, sautéing, etc.

• Use earthenware pots and wooden utensils for cooking and serving.

• Avoid using microwaves, electric stoves, aluminum pots, plastic containers, etc.

An example of a zen macrobiotic meal is brown rice with steamed vegetables and beans, seasoned with tamari soy sauce and sesame seeds. A typical zen macrobiotic menu for a day is:

BreakfastMillet porridge with raisins and walnuts

LunchBrown rice with steamed broccoli and tofu, miso soup with wakame seaweed, apple

DinnerBarley with roasted pumpkin and tempeh, vegetable salad with tahini dressing, pear

The zen macrobiotic diet has many benefits, such as improving digestion, boosting immunity, preventing diseases, increasing energy, enhancing mood, etc. However, it also has some challenges, such as being too restrictive, boring, or difficult to follow for some people. It may also cause nutritional deficiencies if not balanced properly. Therefore, it is important to consult with a qualified macrobiotic counselor or practitioner before starting the diet and to monitor your health regularly.

Zen Macrobiotic Water Intake

The zen macrobiotic water intake is based on drinking only when thirsty and avoiding excess water consumption. Ohsawa believed that drinking too much water diluted the blood and weakened the body's ability to absorb nutrients and eliminate toxins. He also claimed that drinking water during or after meals interfered with digestion and caused bloating and weight gain. He recommended drinking only a small amount of water in the morning and evening, preferably warm or hot.

The zen macrobiotic water intake has some benefits, such as preventing overhydration, reducing water retention, and saving water resources. However, it also has some challenges, such as causing dehydration, constipation, kidney stones, headaches, etc. It may also be impractical or unsafe to follow in hot climates or during physical activity. Therefore, it is important to listen to your body's signals and drink enough water to stay hydrated and healthy.

Zen Macrobiotic Spirituality

The zen macrobiotic spirituality is based on awakening to our true nature as one with the universe. Ohsawa taught that we are not separate from nature, but part of it. He also taught that we are not limited by our physical body, but have a spiritual essence that transcends time and space. He encouraged us to practice meditation, breathing exercises, yoga, martial arts, and other methods to cultivate our awareness and intuition. He also urged us to follow our natural instincts and passions, rather than conforming to social norms and expectations.

The zen macrobiotic spirituality has many benefits, such as reducing stress, anxiety, depression, anger, fear, etc. It also increases happiness, peace, joy, love, compassion, etc. It helps us to discover our purpose and meaning in life and to fulfill our potential. However, it also has some challenges, such as being misunderstood or rejected by others who do not share our views or values. It may also require us to make radical changes in our lifestyle or relationships that may be difficult or painful. Therefore, it is important to be respectful and tolerant of others' beliefs and choices and to seek support and guidance from like-minded people.

Zen Macrobiotic Gratitude

The zen macrobiotic gratitude is based on expressing appreciation and happiness for food and life. Ohsawa emphasized the importance of being grateful for everything we have and everything we experience. He suggested that we say "thank you" before and after each meal and each day. He also recommended that we smile often and laugh freely. He believed that gratitude was the key to health and happiness.

The zen macrobiotic gratitude has many benefits, such as improving our mood, self-esteem, relationships, immune system, sleep quality, etc. It also reduces stress, negativity, resentment, envy, etc. It helps us to enjoy the present moment and to cope with challenges and difficulties. However, it also has some challenges, such as being sincere and authentic, not taking things for granted, not feeling guilty or unworthy, etc. Therefore, it is important to practice gratitude regularly and genuinely and to share it with others.

Conclusion

Zen Macrobiotics by George Ohsawa is a classic book that introduces the philosophy and lifestyle of zen macrobiotics. It explains the concept of yin and yang, the order of the universe, the ten diets, the use of sea salt and tamari soy sauce, the importance of chewing food well, etc. It also provides recipes, menus, testimonials, anecdotes, and exercises to illustrate its points. The book is written in a simple and direct style that reflects Ohsawa's personality and charisma.

The book is not without its flaws and controversies. Some of Ohsawa's claims are not supported by scientific evidence or are outdated by modern standards. For example, he discourages drinking water or eating fruits and dairy products. He also advocates for a very restrictive diet that consists only of grains (Diet No. 7), which he considers the best macrobiotic diet. However, this diet is not sustainable or practical for most people and can lead to nutritional deficiencies and health problems.

Therefore, it is important to read Zen Macrobiotics by George Ohsawa with a critical mind and an open heart. The book is not meant to be followed dogmatically or literally, but rather as a source of inspiration and guidance. It is also advisable to consult with a qualified macrobiotic counselor or practitioner before making any drastic changes to your diet or lifestyle.

If you want to read Zen Macrobiotics by George Ohsawa in PDF format, you have two options: free download or paid download. You can find some websites that offer both options in this article with their pros and cons. You can also find some tips on how to practice zen macrobiotics in your daily life, including diet, water intake, spirituality, and gratitude.

We hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new about zen macrobiotics by George Ohsawa. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact us. We would love to hear from you. Thank you for reading and have a great day!

FAQs

What are the benefits of zen macrobiotics?

Zen macrobiotics can offer many benefits for your physical, emotional, mental, social, and environmental health. Some of them are:

• Improving digestion, metabolism, immunity, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, etc.

• Preventing or treating diseases such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, etc.

• Increasing energy, vitality, stamina, endurance, etc.

Enhancing mood, happiness, peace, joy, love, compassion, etc.

• Reducing stress, anxiety, depression, anger, fear, etc.

• Developing awareness, intuition, creativity, wisdom, etc.

• Discovering purpose, meaning, direction, potential, etc.

• Connecting with nature, the universe, and oneself.

• Expressing gratitude and appreciation for food and life.

What are the challenges of zen macrobiotics?

Zen macrobiotics can also pose some challenges for some people. Some of them are:

• Being too restrictive, boring, or difficult to follow for some people.

• Causing nutritional deficiencies or health problems if not balanced properly.

• Being misunderstood or rejected by others who do not share your views or values.

• Requiring radical changes in your lifestyle or relationships that may be difficult or painful.

• Being sincere and authentic in your gratitude and happiness.

How to balance yin and yang in zen macrobiotics?

Yin and yang are the two opposite but complementary forces that make up everything in the universe. In zen macrobiotics, you need to balance these forces in your body and environment through proper diet and lifestyle choices. Here are some examples of yin and yang foods and activities:

Yin FoodsYang Foods

FruitsMeat

SugarSalt

CoffeeTamari soy sauce

AlcoholMiso

Dairy productsEggs

Tropical vegetablesRoot vegetables

NutsSeeds

OilsVinegar

Cold waterHot water

Yin ActivitiesYang Activities

SleepingWaking up

MeditatingWorking

SittingMoving

ListeningTalking

CryingLaughing

CryingLaughing

ReceivingGiving

Being passiveBeing active

Being feminineBeing masculine

Being coldBeing hot

To balance yin and yang in zen macrobiotics, you need to choose foods and activities that are appropriate for your condition, climate, season, age, gender, etc. For example, if you are feeling weak, tired, or depressed, you may need more yang foods and activities to energize and stimulate you. If you are feeling tense, angry, or restless, you may need more yin foods and activities to calm and relax you. You also need to avoid foods and activities that are too extreme or unbalanced in either yin or yang. For example, eating too much sugar or drinking too much coffee can make you too yin and cause health problems. Eating too much salt or meat can make you too yang and cause health problems.

How to meditate in zen macrobiotics?

Meditation is one of the methods that Ohsawa recommended to practice zen macrobiotics and to achieve spiritual awakening. Meditation is a technique that helps you to focus your attention on the present moment and to observe your thoughts, feelings, sensations, and surroundings without judgment or attachment. Meditation can help you to reduce stress, anxiety, depression, anger, fear, etc. It can also help you to increase happiness, peace, joy, love, compassion, etc. It