This week’s Mental Health Awareness Week is using ‘Te Whare Tapa Wha’, a holistic concept of well-being based on Māori world views, as a vehicle to promote mental health (see https://mhaw.nz/#).

                                                                     Korihi te manu/ The bird sings

                                                      Tākiri mai i te ata/ The morning has dawned

                                                      Ka ao, ka ao, ka awatea/ The day has broken

                                                                   Tihei mauri ora/ Behold there is life

There are four dimensions making up the four walls of a whare: Whanau, Wairua, Tinana and Hinengaro. The whare is placed in whenua. Whenua is the place where you stand. It is your connection to the land – a source of life, nourishment and wellbeing for everyone. It is the context of everything.

The last days of term will offer several opportunities, created by monitors and staff, to come together as a community and enjoy each other’s company (Whanau – social connection). Sometimes it is important to pause and reflect on what thoughts/language you choose to describe your experiences with. Are the descriptions reflecting acceptance and harmony that may lead to gratitude (Wairua – spirituality/identity)? Walking, dancing, jumping, swimming, cycling or running…find the best fit for your body, and make sure you nourish it well (Tinana – physical health). 

Mental health is a combination of all the above dimensions and creates the tune that you might hear in your own mind, make a conscious decision to listen to these helpful tunes that create contentment in your life (Hinengaro-psychological well-being).

The Whare Hauora (Guidance Department) team wants to make our school community aware that our doors are open for anyone seeking support when they want to strengthen their whare (house). Just call in or book an appointment by email: gui@teams.cbhs.school.nz or phone/text:

021468823 or 021468826

Nga mihi

The Whare Hauora Team (Guidance Team – for details see below link)

https://www.cbhs.school.nz/media/26219/cbhs-brochure-word-version-new-280319.pdf