Week Three - Lecture Two - Tikanga Māori

Learning Objectives

  • Familiarize with Tikanga Māori concepts supporting wellbeing throughout life.

  • Key concepts include: Mauri, Whakapapa, Mana, Wairua, Aroha, Manaakitanga, Kaitiakitanga, Ako, Whanaungatanga, Tapu, Noa.

  • Introduce two Māori models of hauora/wellbeing.

Whakapapa

  • Definition: Genealogy, ancestry, heritage. Essential for identifying one’s identity.

  • Concept applies broadly beyond humans to elements like water, trees, gods, and animals.

Wairua (Spiritual and Connection)

  • Multiple dimensions: people, land, spoken word, ancestors, etc.

  • Key understanding: wairua provides meaning, balance, and purpose.

  • Fundamental to Māori existence and health.

Tapu and Noa

  • Tapu: Sacredness, restriction associated with the supernatural.

    • Violating tapu invokes retribution; requires rituals for mitigation.

    • Controls behavior toward each other and the environment.

  • Noa: Removes tapu through rituals, food, or water.

Mauri

  • Defined as the physical life principle; essence of life for humans, nature, etc.

  • Importance: Binds spiritual and physical; nurturing acts enhance mauri.

  • Impact of relationships: Positive interactions and kindness can nurture mauri.

Mana

  • Derives from divine authority, a vessel of strength and power.

  • Encompasses prestige, influence, status, and spiritual power.

  • Responsibility: Great mana carries great responsibility toward people and gods.

Manaakitanga

  • Reflects generosity and kindness towards others.

  • Builds respectful relationships leading to mutual affinity and personal wellbeing.

  • Reciprocity is crucial for strengthening relationships.

Whanaungatanga

  • Emphasizes belonging and sense of purpose.

  • Enacted through cultural practices, social protocols, and responsibilities.

  • Promotes unity and interconnected experiences.

Kaitiakitanga

  • Signifies guardianship and stewardship of the environment.

  • Māori viewed as protectors of ecosystems, maintaining the mauri of living things.

  • Illustrates the deep connection between humans and nature.

Aroha

  • Components: Focus, introspection, life force, generosity.

  • Cultivates love, care, compassion; rejects negative traits like greed.

Ako

  • Involves reciprocal relationships in teaching and learning.

  • Recognizes shared experiences, enhancing collective understanding.

Hauora Model (Te Whare Tapa Whā)

  • Dimensions:

    • Taha Tinana: Physical health—growth and development.

    • Taha Wairua: Spiritual essence and faith.

    • Taha Hinengaro: Mental health—emotional well-being.

    • Taha Whānau: Family health—belonging and care.

  • Each dimension interrelates, emphasizing overall wellness.

Personal Reflections on Wellbeing Dimensions

  • Taha Wairua includes spiritual truth and personal integrity.

  • Taha Tinana emphasizes physical health practices, nutrition, and fitness.

  • Taha Whānau connects through communication and shared experiences.

  • Taha Hinengaro involves managing thoughts and emotions in a holistic context.

Te Wheke Model

  • Represents total wellbeing connect with family, community, and the universe.

  • Each of the eight dimensions is interconnected, emphasizing harmony and balance.