While I don't entirely disagree with this node, I find that it goes against some principles of Zen itself.
I find it condescending and a bit overly literalist. While it is true that many find that concentrated meditation in a sensory depriving atmosphere holds the key to simplicity and zen; this is not always the case.
Allow me to relate to you a story of a Zen master:
"Once a monk went to see Master Tung-shan, who was busy weighing flax. The monk asked 'What is Buddha Nature?' To which the master replied; 'Three pounds of flax.'"
This story articulates the fact that Zen is not simply staring at a wall and quieting one's mind, it is engaging in life with a fresh and renewed perspective clear of clouded thoughts and overly strenuous pondering. To be able to clear one's thoughts while in total isolation is a skill that is quite formidable, but to be able to be free of one's mind during your daily activities; this is Zen.