By Temepara Smith

He taonga tuku iho nā ngā tīpuna

In traditional times, Māori had many different types of Rongoa for different matenga. Our rongoa practices were birthed from our environment and cultural beliefs. Today, we live in a different environment with its own challenges. Stress, burnout, and anxiety are abundant in university life. Here are some quick rongoā tips, inspired by Te Whare Tapa Whā, to support your wellbeing and guide you on the path to graduation.

E hoki ki ō maunga, kia purea ai koe e ngā hau ā Tawhirimatea

Our tīpuna lived differently, shaped by the taiao of their whakapapa. Though this is no longer the reality for most of us, a simple rongoā tip is to return to those environments: climb your maunga, swim in your awa, and walk through your ngahere. These strengthen tinana and hinengaro, reconnect us with the mauri o te taiao, and release negative mauri. Engaging with the taiao of is a key to recovery during study breaks, and your physical wellbeing, even if not on your own whēnua.

Ko te whare o te whakaaro nui kia mau ki te ngū

Mindfulness and karakia set the wairua right and clear the hinengaro. Begin each morning early, before the noise of the day, ideally by water or in nature. Breathe deeply, karakia with intention, and reflect on your whānau, your goals, and why you are here. This quiet pause creates the headspace we often forget, easing stress and anxiety, and refocusing us on what truly matters instead of gravitating toward the negative and disruptive.

He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata.

It is all about those around us. We come from a people who lived as a collective. It is a fundamental need just like sleep and hunger. And as such, it is vital to maintain connection with others. No matter how busy things get, make sure to prioritise time with those you care about like your family or friends. This is especially true for those who may be far from home. So make sure to take every opportunity to connect with those you care about for your wellbeing.

Ko tā te Taonga Pūoro he whakaāio

One of the main uses of the taonga Pūoro in the rongoa world is to settle the wairua of the tangata. In traditional times the vibrations of certain taonga were used to Soothe the mamae of childbirth and while receiving tāmoko. This is true not only for taonga pūoro Māori, but for music in general. The right playlist, genre, or artist can speak to your wairua and help you endure the stress of life. So my tip would be to prepare playlists that can serve as a safe space and to help ease any mamae.