In the fast-paced modern world, stress has become an unwelcome companion for many. The pressures of work, family, and daily responsibilities can leave us feeling overwhelmed and disconnected. But what if we could find solace in these beautiful traditions our tipuna hardnesses—a way to ground ourselves in moments of chaos and reconnect with our inner strength?
Harnessing Te Mauri is exactly that.
Understanding stress & mauri
In Māori culture, Te Mauri refers to the life force or vital essence that exists within all living things. It is the energy that connects us to our environment, our ancestors, and ourselves. When nurtured, Te Mauri helps us maintain balance and harmony in our lives. Stress, on the other hand, can disturb this balance, leaving us feeling fragmented and ungrounded.
Grounding practices rooted in Māori traditions can help restore Te Mauri, offering tools to manage stress while fostering a deeper connection to ourselves and the world around us.
Māori Grounding Practices to Harness Te Mauri
1. Whakatau (Settling the Mind)
Begin by creating a quiet space where you can breathe and reflect. Use slow, deep breaths to calm your mind and center your thoughts.
Try these breathing techniques :
Sit comfortably with your feet flat on the ground.
Close your eyes and inhale deeply through your nose for four counts.
Hold your breath for four counts, then exhale slowly through your mouth for six counts.
Repeat for five minutes, focusing on the sensation of your breath.
2. Whakapapa (Connecting to Ancestry)
Your lineage and heritage are powerful sources of strength. Reflecting on your whakapapa (genealogy) can ground you in a sense of belonging and purpose.
Try This:
Spend time learning about your ancestors or recounting stories passed down through generations.
Visualize their support and guidance as you navigate challenges.
3. Papatūānuku (Connection to the Earth)
Māori traditions place great emphasis on the connection to Papatūānuku, the Earth Mother. Grounding yourself physically in nature can be a powerful way to restore balance.
Try This:
Walk barefoot on grass, sand, or soil to feel a direct connection to the earth.
While outside, take a moment to observe your surroundings—the sound of birds, the rustle of leaves, the warmth of the sun.
4. Karakia (Spiritual Prayers)
Karakia, or traditional Māori prayers, can offer comfort and guidance in times of stress. These prayers invoke spiritual energy and remind us of the interconnectedness of all things.
Try This:
Recite a karakia or create your own affirmations that resonate with your beliefs.
Speak your intentions aloud to invite positive energy into your day.
5. Rongoā Māori (Traditional Healing)
Explore natural remedies such as rākau rongoā (medicinal plants) or mirimiri (massage) to ease physical and emotional tension. These practices honor the healing power of nature and touch.
Try This:
Prepare a soothing tea using native plants like kawakawa.
Seek out a mirimiri practitioner or learn basic techniques to release tension in your body.
We have Tika Ora Rongoa & www.manahua.co.nz visit the whare regularly keep an eye out for more details
6. The Power of Water (wai) to Cleanse
Water holds a special place in Māori traditions as a symbol of purity, renewal, and healing. Engaging with water can help cleanse both the body and the spirit, restoring balance and clarity.
Try This:
Take a moment to wash your hands or face with cool water while focusing on releasing stress and negative energy.
If possible, visit a nearby river, lake, or ocean. Stand at the water's edge, breathe deeply, and visualize the water carrying away your worries.
Incorporate water into your daily routine mindfully, such as through a relaxing bath or shower where you imagine stress being washed away.
Sharing Te Mauri with Whānau
Grounding practices are not only beneficial for individuals but can also strengthen bonds within whānau (family). Share these techniques with your loved ones to create a supportive and nurturing environment for everyone.
Encourage your whānau to:
Practice grounding techniques together, such as mindful breathing or nature walks.
Hold space for open conversations about stress and well-being.
Celebrate your shared whakapapa through storytelling and cultural practices.
Harnessing Te Mauri is about more than stress management; it is a holistic approach to well-being that honors the wisdom of Māori culture. By grounding ourselves in these practices, we not only nurture our own life force but also strengthen our connection to the world around us.
Share this wisdom with your whānau and embrace the transformative power of Te Mauri.
Let it guide you toward balance, harmony, and resilience in every aspect of your life.
This blog post was inspired by Pūkenga Psychology & their beautiful resources, karakia & upcoming Mauri tau course
Details below
