Koshin Paley Ellison on Becoming Wholehearted

Koshin Paley Ellison on Becoming Wholehearted

Ever feel like you're juggling different parts of yourself, struggling to find balance? In this episode of 'The One You Feed', Eric Zimmer chats with Sensei Koshin Paley Ellison about his book 'Wholehearted: Slow Down, Help Out, Wake Up'. Koshin, a Zen teacher and Jungian psychotherapist, dives into how we can weave together all aspects of ourselves into a loving, whole being. Koshin co-founded the New York Zen Center for Contemplative Care with his partner, Sensei Chodo Robert Campbell.

Throughout the episode, he and Eric discuss the art of going against the stream, working skillfully with our preferences, and building bridges of compassion. They touch on how breaking free from habitual patterns requires effort and mindfulness, and how approaching life with curiosity can open new doors. In times when divisiveness seems rampant, Koshin emphasizes the importance of finding common ground and nurturing empathy. He suggests looking for the humanity in others as a way to foster compassion.

Personal growth, he says, hinges on taking responsibility for our actions—acknowledging mistakes, making amends, and learning from our experiences. One of the most touching parts of the conversation is about unconditional love. Koshin explains that it's more than just a feeling; it's a way of being that involves embracing all parts of ourselves, flaws included, and extending that acceptance to others. If you're on a quest for personal growth and wholeness, this episode offers practical insights and heartfelt advice.