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  • Wabi Sabi

  • Japanese Wisdom for a Perfectly Imperfect Life
  • By: Beth Kempton
  • Narrated by: Beth Kempton
  • Length: 5 hrs and 17 mins
  • 4.7 out of 5 stars (182 ratings)
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Wabi Sabi

By: Beth Kempton
Narrated by: Beth Kempton
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Summary

A whole new way of looking at the world - and your life - inspired by centuries-old Japanese wisdom.  

Wabi sabi (wah-bi sah-bi) is a captivating concept from Japanese aesthetics, which helps us to see beauty in imperfection, appreciate simplicity and accept the transient nature of all things. 

With roots in Zen and the way of tea, the timeless wisdom of wabi sabi is more relevant than ever for modern life, as we search for new ways to approach life's challenges and seek meaning beyond materialism.  

Wabi sabi is a refreshing antidote to our fast-paced, consumption-driven world, which will encourage you to slow down, reconnect with nature, and be gentler on yourself. It will help you simplify everything and concentrate on what really matters.  

From honouring the rhythm of the seasons to creating a welcoming home, from reframing failure to ageing with grace, Wabi Sabi will teach you to find more joy and inspiration throughout your perfectly imperfect life.  

This book is the definitive guide to applying the principles of wabi sabi to transform every area of your life and finding happiness right where you are.

©2019 Beth Kempton (P)2019 Hachette Audio UK

Critic reviews

"A truly transformative read." (Sunday Times)

"More than ever, we need books like this." (Jessica Seaton, Cofounder of Toast and author of Gather, Cook, Feast

What listeners say about Wabi Sabi

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  • Overall
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    4 out of 5 stars

I review for myself, person who stumbled upon this

A thoughtful, and easy to listen to audiobook. For those who have listened or read quite a bit on the principles of Buddhism or Eastern philosophy basics I don't think there will be too much stuff to discover. But it was a wonderful, little introduction to mindful living anyway. I enjoyed it very much. Take care!

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Expected less and gained more

I listened it in English but I bought this book in Hungarian too, and I will also read that version.

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Thoughtful book

I have listened to the book twice since it takes some time to absorb everything thoroughly and understand the context.
It is richly packed with information about wabi sabi its history and origins and japanese way of appreciating and living in the present moment. I have downloaded the book originally to understand japanese aesthetics but it have affected me since to appreciate nature more even though I already live in the countryside I have caught myself watching the light and shadow changes more and taking wabi sabi principles in improving design of the space. In these strange times of carantine and covid lock down its a great book to listen to on how to enjoy beautiful and simple things in life.

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6 people found this helpful

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Incredible!

A beautifully written and very inspiring book. Stays with you long after you have finished. I have been fascinated by Japan for years this book is a real treat.

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wonderfully researched and narrated

Wonderfully written and narrated book. her lyrical voice beautifully accompanied her words of wisdom and insight. Thoroughly enjoyed it. It's the type of book I may just go listen to a second time.

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brilliant listen

I'm in awe of Beth Kempton. Her voice is also lush to listen too so I was super grateful to hear it was her reading it. Her words of wisdom are amazing and love her connections with Japan.

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I feel Inspired

I loved listening to this audio book
it felt like I was sitting with Beth Kempton having a cup of tea.

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  • Overall
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Beautiful Narration and Life Wisdom

I stumbled across Beth's Calm Christmas Podcast last November and come January I felt lost without her words of wisdom accompanying my morning walks. Throughout many of the Calm Christmas Podcast, Beth quoted extracts from Wabi Sabi, so I thought I could check it out! It was the perfect book to listen to in January when you are reflecting on what you would have to do more of in the new year. Beth's voice is so calming and easy to listen to. Each chapter is well broken up and easy to follow. Looking forward to listening to another of Beth's books!

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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Calming

Calming thought provoking and reassuring. Was especially comforting to listen to in January just after Christmas!

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Lovely

A very pleasant, positive and thought provoking audio book. I found this relaxing to listen to with some lovely life tips to remember. I am looking forward to Beth’s next book.

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