A Maori Perspective of Health

Overview of Maori Health Perspective

• Health is not a universal concept; it's shaped by cultural definitions.

• The aspirations for health among Maori are defined by tribal elders during traditional gatherings.

Four Cornerstones of Maori Health

• Te Taha Wairua (Spiritual Dimension):

  • Recognized as the most basic and essential requirement for health.

  • Involves a spiritual awareness that connects individuals to their environment and ancestors.

  • Land holds significant spiritual value, with traditional beliefs that link health to connection with the land.

  • The concept of mana, a spiritual authority, is central to their understanding of health.

• Te Taha Hinengaro (Psychic Dimension):

  • Reflects how thoughts and feelings affect health.

  • Maori perspective prioritizes holistic thinking—understanding health as interconnected rather than isolated.

  • Healthy thinking is integrative; unhealthy thinking is considered self-centered.

• Te Taha Tinana (Bodily Dimension):

  • Concerns the physical body and health practices.

  • Emphasis on ritualistic care of the body; distinct boundaries between sacred and common.

  • Health practices around food and bodily functions exhibit cultural significance, leading to discomfort in Western health settings.

• Te Taha Whanau (Family Dimension):

  • Family in Maori culture means an extended kinship network, impacting health through support systems.

  • Traditional child-rearing practices involve elders, fostering communal responsibility rather than reliance on biological parents.

  • Family identity and connections are crucial for individual health and wellbeing; independence is seen as immaturity.

Differences between Maori and Western Health Perspectives

• Maori elders vs. Western health professionals:

  • Maori focus on broader cultural factors impacting community health, whereas Western approaches often emphasize individual dysfunction.

  • Definitions of health differ significantly; the WHO definition is seen as too narrow by Maori standards.

Contemporary Health Issues and Concerns

• Major health issues highlighted by Maori elders include:

  • Pollution of food sources as a health threat, connected to environmental and cultural aspects.

  • Child health concerns due to changing practices recommended by Western medicine.

• Importance of community integrity and traditional practices in health promotion.

Implications for Health Service Development

• Health services must consider Maori definitions and values to be effective.

• Example initiatives:

  • Development of marae within hospital grounds for culturally relevant therapy.

  • Collaboration between health professionals and traditional healers.

• Shift towards more culturally sensitive health services recognizing the Maori perspective on holistic health.

Conclusion

• Incorporating Maori health perspectives into New Zealand health systems can lead to better health outcomes that respect cultural values and community needs.