Kokoro

Kokoro is a Japanese word, loosely translating to a union of heart, mind, essence—elements inseparable from one other in Eastern cultures. In a dictionary of classic Japanese words, kokoro refers to all human activities affecting the outside world through intention, emotion, and intellect.

“We should take the interrelationship of our thoughts, feelings, and desires into account in order to understand human experience.“
-Paul Swanson

Creatives, artists, musicians, and dreamers in most cultures have viewed these elements as intertwined. And kokoro is now driving science discovery.

Interested in learning more about kokoro? Check this out in Lion’s Roar.

Hello, I’m Nell.

This is where I share my kokoro. I was once a young girl who felt a deep connection and kinship with my natural surroundings. As a child I was happiest exploring, observing, and just ‘being’ in the wilderness. And, I’m happy to say, that’s never changed! Today as a researcher, conservationist, and educator, my purpose is to understand diverse human experiences, interconnectedness, and meaningful connections—including those with the More-Than-Human-World.

I’m fortunate to call Colorado home since 1999, and to have raised my son exploring and understanding the complexities of the diverse, unique, western landscapes. These experiences inspired further inquiry, and ultimately why I earned a Master in Environmental Management (MEM) at Western Colorado University, became a certified Grief Educator,
& am currently an ANFT Nature Therapy Guide in training.

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