Johnson makes the Shaolin way legacy accessible to all, releasing the art from the clutches of popular images and painful concerns about self-defense. Barefoot Zen is a brave new approach to the martial arts, which clearly demonstrates that the traditional movements of both Kung Fu and Karate, contained in the solo choreographed sequences of movements known as forms (or kata), grew out of the spiritual practices of the Shaolin order of Buddhist monks and nuns. Nathan Johnson explains that this mystical and non-violent teaching is a profound and beautiful expression of Chan (Zen) Buddhism and its pursuit of wisdom, peace, and enlightenment. Contrary to popular assumption, he contends that it was never intended to be an actual means of self-defense. Barefoot Zen bridges the gap between Kung Fu and Karate, and reveals their common origin through the disclosure of vital research material on three of the world’s most important Karate kata. Part I explains the spiritual disciplines that contributed to what we know as the martial arts. Part II explains the creation of the art along with practical instruction for performing kata. Part III explains the formation of many of the world’s Kung Fu styles. We learn that the original “empty hand art” was used as a method of kinetic meditation between pairs and was designed as a practical tool to assist practitioners in transcending the fear and insecurity of everyday living. The legendary courage of the Shaolin (Chan/Zen) order was not developed by fighting with enemies, but by not fighting! The Shaolin teaching was designed to free us from fear, the only true enemy.

Barefoot Blue Jean Night by Debbi Rawlins The moment she sees the ad for Sundance Dude Ranch – featuring the rugged McAllister brothers – travel blogger Jamie Daniels can't resist booking. After all, a week of fresh air and scenery will do her good... Cole's not thrilled about playing host to hoards of ogling women. But when it comes to showing Jamie the ropes, his reluctance is conspicuously absent. In fact, there's nothing he'd like more than giving Jamie a cowboy experience she won't ever forget! Guilty Pleasures by Tori Carrington Jonathon Reece needs to prove himself at his new security job. On his first big assignment hunting a fugitive wanted for murder, things get complicated when the fugitive in question is a scorching hot gal who won't take 'you're under arrest' for an answer! Normally, Mara Findlay would be delighted to have a man like Jon hot on her tail. But having been framed for murder and eluding authorities is taking its toll. Worse still, it looks like the only way out of this mess is by teaming up with the one man determined to haul her in. Unless she can exploit his one weakness...her.

Destination: Sundance Dude Ranch – Blackfoot Falls, Montana Activities: Horseback riding, rodeos, guided hikes...and lots of cowboy action!

Provides an overview of various popular martial arts to help you choose one, should you want to train formally. The book explains how, through regular practice, it is possible to improve concentration and increase confidence, particularly in situations in which there is a need for self defense.

Founder of San Francisco's Maitri Hospice for AIDS patients--where he died in 1990--Dorsey praticed Zen for 20 years, after leading an outrageous existence as a drag queen, prostitute, junkie, and commune leader. "Issan's story contributes significantly to the history of the gay community and its response to AIDS".--Randy Shilts. Photos.