The Matariki guide to hauora (wellbeing)
In a few days we’ll be celebrating Matariki. This richly symbolic event is a time to acknowledge the past and celebrate new beginnings. Matariki is a beautiful example of how the revival of Mātauranga Māori (traditional Māori knowledge) offers many taonga (treasures) from which we can all learn and grow.
Here is a brief guide to each of the 9 whetū (stars) of Matariki, as well as some of the gifts that each whetū can offer toward hauora (wellbeing).
E iwa nga whetū (the 9 stars)
Matariki
The star that signifies hope, reflection, and connection to people and our environment (Matamua, 2022). Matariki reminds us that hauora (wellbeing) is enhanced through positive relationships to people and place.
Pōhutukawa
This star is connected to those that have passed on (Matamua, 2022). Pōhutakawa reminds us that before we can move forward, we must first acknowledge and honour our past hurts and losses.
Waitī
This star is associated with all bodies of fresh water, as well as the food sources that they sustain (Matamua, 2022). Waitī reminds us that each dimension of our wellbeing, such as physical, mental, relational, or spiritual aspects, are deeply interconnected and mutually supporting.
Waitā
This is the star of the great oceans, and the foods they hold (Matamua, 2022). Waitā reminds us that we are connected to something vastly bigger than ourselves, with the power to nourish and heal.
Waipuna-ā-Rangi
This star is connected with the rains (Matamua, 2022). Waipuna-ā-Rangi reminds us that to be well we must restore and resource our body, mind, and spirit.
Tupuānuku
Connected with the plants and roots that are harvested as food from the soil (Matamua, 2022). Tupuānuku reminds us that we need to give ourselves time and space to heal and grow. These things take time and must be nourished.
Tupuārangi
This star is connected with what can be harvested from the trees, including birds, fruits, and berries. (Matamua, 2022). Tupuārangi reminds us to raise our eyes from the ground, and take in the opportunities that surround us.
Ururangi
The star connected to the winds (Matamua, 2022). Ururangi reminds us that to be strong, we must be firmly rooted in our values, and yet be flexible enough to bend with the winds.
Hiwa-i-te-Rangi
This star is connected with our aspirations, hopes, and wishes for the coming year (Matamua, 2022). Hiwa-i-te-Rangi calls on us to take part in creating the life we want for ourselves, and to walk toward this vision with purpose.
References:
Matamua, R. (2022). Te iwa o Matarangi: The nine stars of Matarangi. https://www.twoa.ac.nz/hononga-stay-connected/te-iwa-o-matariki.
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