The Hózhó of Navajo Nation

“May it be beautiful before me. May is be beautiful behind me. May it be beautiful above me. May it be beautiful below me. May I walk in beauty.”

“Hózhó″ is a Navajo word that means “walking in beauty” – or living in a manner that strives to create and maintain balance, harmony, beauty and order. Hózhó is similar to, but much richer in meaning than the term “conservation” as it implies a deep connection between people and the land. One cannot restore land health without people and culture. This concept forms the founding principal for understanding ecological and cultural resilience on Navajo land. It is such an honor, and so deeply inspiring, to continue learning the ancient wisdom that this beautiful land and vibrant culture shares with me.