Te Whare Tapa Whā is a model of the four dimensions of wellbeing to provide a Māori perspective on health.
The four dimensions are:
- taha tinana (physical wellbeing)
- taha hinengaro (mental wellbeing)
- taha wairua (spiritual wellbeing)
- taha whānau (family wellbeing)
With four walls, the Wharenui is used as a symbol of these four dimensions. With connections to the whenua (land, sea, nature) the wharenui forms the foundation of these four dimensions.
Whenua
Whenua is the foundation for the other four dimensions. The health of the land and nature around you is extremely important and is strongly connected to your own health and wellbeing.
Taha Tinaha
This is your physical wellbeing represented by one of the walls of the wharenui. It is about how your body grows, feels and moves and how you take care of it. Feeling physically well helps you feel mentally well so nourishing and strengthening your body allows you to better cope with the ups and downs of life.
Taha Hinengaro
Taha Hinengaro is your mind, heart, conscience, thoughts and feelings. It is how you feel and how you communicate and think.
Taha Wairua
Wairua is different for everyone. It can be your religion and faith or can simply be your connection to the universe. It is your spiritual wellbeing and is expressed through your beliefs, values, traditions and practices that suypport self-awareness and identity. It provides purpose and a sense of connectivity to yourself, your whānau, your community and nature.
Taha Whānau
Taha whānau is about who makes you feel at home, who makes you feel like you belong, who you care about and who you share your life with. All your extended relationships are Whānau. Spending time with them, helping them and getting involved gives a sense of purpose, connection and wellbeing. It benefits you and forms stronger bonds within your whānau. This plays a critical role in your wellbeing.
Wellbeing Plan
| Wall | Activities |
|---|---|
| Taha Tinana (Physical Wellbeing) | Going for a lunchtime walk/run every day |
| Taha Whānau (Family Wellbeing) | Sharing dinner with family every night |
| Taha Hinengaro (Emotional and Mental Wellbeing) | Reading for an hour before bed every night |
| Taha Wairua (Spiritual Wellbeing) | Practicing mindfulness and journalling what I am grateful for at least twice a week |
| Whenua (Interconnections to the land and environment) | Gardening, I have a large veggie patch and grape vine that need a lot of attention. Each weekend I will spend a few hours in the garden |