Review: The Zen of Eating: Ancient Ansers to Modern Weight Problems by Ronna Kabatznick

Synopsis: More than 2,5000 years ago, the Buddha defined suffering as a ravenous appetite - not just for food, but for peace and security. We all know the power of a ravenous appetite. It has pushed us to extremes of both overeating and dieting many times. But how can principles established more than two millennia ago have meaning for us today? From a Buddhist perspective, overeating is a disorder of desire. Our emotional appetites will never be satisfied until we learn how to manage the desires that keep us looking for peace where it can't be found. Now a psychologist and meditator applies the Buddha's formula to help us find freedom from eating problems and the tyranny of desire that creates them. By learning to let go of your cravings and recognizing the desires that trigger overeating, you'll discover the Middle Way - a balanced state of mind that will help you navigate through the extreme indulgence and self-denial, and finally understand your struggle with food. (from the back of the book)

Review: First, the good things about this book. I enjoyed the stories and how the author included prayers and practices from several religions. I like how she linked overeating and/or dieting to emotions. I even thought one or two of her ideas had merit. But honestly - most it seemed a lot of hooey. She never actually talked about why we desire - not just food, but anything. Where does it come from? Why is it a struggle? If food isn't the answer to our desire, what is?
As a Christian, I believe all our desires can only be filled by God - anything else will never satisfy. But as this author is Buddhist, she, obviously, did not offer that answer. She didn't offer any answers, because in the Buddhist faith, there is none. If you are a Buddhist, this is an excellent book for you to read. If you are Christian, there is a truth or two to glean, but it is overshadowed by questions with no answers. And honestly, it's simple a Buddhist version of those Christian weight-loss books - and no matter what you believe, if you are focused on Food, instead of God, you will fail.

Bookmarks: 5 of 10

Awards: None

ISBN: 0-399-52382-0
Date Finished: 5-17-2014
Pages: 191