Thread: Zen and the art of straight razor shaving

I am only on my tenth shave and finding this a very rewarding experience . The whole ritual starting with the hot shower and ending with the aftershave is very calming. I was struck by the similarities of straight razor shaving and some of the core concepts written about in Zen and the art of motor cycle maintenance .
“The test of the machine is the satisfaction it gives you. There isn't any other test. If the machine produces tranquility it's right. If it disturbs you it's wrong until either the machine or your mind is changed.”
― Robert M. Pirsig, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance: An Inquiry Into values.
“Peace of mind produces right values, right values produce right thoughts. Right thoughts produce right actions and right actions produce work which will be a material reflection for others to see of the serenity at the center of it all.”
― Robert M. Pirsig, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance: An Inquiry Into Values
Thanks to everyone who has contributed to this site and has started me on this journey , Gillette is in the bin and my mind is clear. (Well until the kids get out of bed ).

Great book, i have mentioned before, the only adrenalin rush i get that comes close to riding my motorcycle is shaving with a straight.

Well, I also practice meditation, and one time I am in a total no-mind state, fully here and aware is when I shave with a straight. I think this also is a fringe benefit. It's like washing your mind, shaving away all thought, leaving only a conscious state. But if I miss on being here and now, I get a candidate for "cut of the day". And also my wife... "Oh, you got cut again, be careful or you will decapitate yourself!"