By Cabrini ‘Ofa Makasiale. Author Self Published, 2023 (NZD 20 from spaceforspirituality@outlook.com). Reviewed by Delphina Soti

In Claiming the Space for Spirituality, Makasiale explores spirituality and its connection to well-being. She discusses interconnectedness and its breakdown through intergenerational complications. She points to how physicists and neuroscientists are articulating what our parents and ancestors always knew: “Physical and spiritual is all one irrespective of shape or shade. This essence is the same.” I appreciated the book’s cultural sensitivity. Makasiale respects the diversity of spiritual beliefs within the Pasifika community, the importance of our cultural heritage and also individual spiritual paths. This inclusiveness allowed me to see the intersections between my cultural identity and personal well-being.

Makasiale presents abstract spiritual concepts and academic literature through relatable stories and metaphors. My 80-year father is reading this book as are two of our Pasifika youth workers. They are loving it! Claiming the Space for Spirituality incorporates Pasifika traditions and folklore, and Makasiale invites readers from diverse backgrounds to appreciate and learn from Pasifika wisdom. I found this inspiring and liberating — a dose for the soul.

I found this book a profound and empowering read. Claiming the Space for Spirituality is timely given the escalation of unwellness in our society. Malo lava le tauata'i, malo le folau manuia.

Tui Motu Magazine. Issue 285 September 2023: 27