Asssement
Introduction: In Health, we have been studying Death, Dying, and the Afterlife. We have learned about some different cultural beliefs and traditions. Such as Change, loss and grief, supporting others and the process of dying.
Day of the Dead – Compare and Contrast
My topic that I have chosen to investigate for the assessment is the Maori Culture’s beliefs and ways of dealing with death. Because I think that relates more to this topic, as I am Maori, and I feel I always want to learn more about my culture.
Spiritual Wellbeing – Taha Wairua
Māori beliefs around death strongly connect to taha wairua, as death is seen not as an end, but a spiritual transition. The tangihanga process honours the wairua (spirit) of the deceased, guiding it safely to the ancestral homeland of Hawaiki. Rituals such as karakia (prayers), cleansing practices, and the concept of tapu (sacredness) reflect the deep spiritual respect given to the tūpāpaku (body of the deceased).
Some individuals, especially younger generations or urban Māori, may feel disconnected from traditional spiritual beliefs or unsure how to carry them out properly. The impact of this can lead to confusion, anxiety, or guilt around following spiritual customs (like karakia or cleansing rituals), which may affect their spiritual wellbeing and create tension within whānau.
Social Wellbeing – Taha Whanau
Taha whānau is central to the tangihanga, as it brings together extended family and community to support one another and honour the deceased. Through shared grief, storytelling, waiata (songs), and collective mourning, whānau strengthen their connections and uphold the importance of whakapapa (genealogy). This communal approach to loss reinforces the role of whānau in healing.
Tangihanga can sometimes create family conflict, especially around decisions like where the body should be buried, who should speak, or how long the tangi should last. These disagreements can strain whānau relationships at a time when unity is most needed. Long-standing tensions may also surface during a tangihanga, making grieving more stressful.
Physical Wellbeing – Taha Tinana
Physical wellbeing, or taha tinana, is recognised through the care of the tūpāpaku and the physical rituals surrounding death. The body is never left alone and is treated with great respect. Cleansing practices, such as washing hands or stepping over fire after leaving the tūpāpaku, help restore balance. Sharing kai (food) also plays a vital role in helping mourners return from the sacred state of tapu to the ordinary state of noa.
Tangihanga are emotionally and physically exhausting, often lasting three or more days with little sleep and a lot of emotional intensity. Whānau members, especially those closest to the deceased, may neglect their own health, skip meals, or suffer from exhaustion. In some cases, the cost of travel or hosting the tangi can also create financial and physical stress.
Mental and Emotional Wellbeing – Taha Hinengaro
Māori customs openly support taha hinengaro by allowing emotional expression during tangihanga. Mourners are encouraged to cry, wail, and speak freely about their pain, memories, and love for the deceased. This open grieving process acknowledges the mental and emotional impact of death and provides a culturally safe space for healing.
The intense and public nature of grieving can be overwhelming, especially for those who are more private or who struggle with their mental health. People may feel pressured to perform or suppress their emotions, or they may feel disconnected if they don’t grieve in the same way as others. For some, traditional practices might not provide enough space for individual emotional needs or modern coping methods like counselling.
Māori death practices such as the tangihanga reflect a full approach to well-being that aligns with all four dimensions of Te Whare Tapa Whā. These customs ensure that the spiritual, physical, emotional, and family needs of individuals and communities are acknowledged and supported throughout the mourning process.
There were a number of ways that I demonstrated respect towards other cultural beliefs during this unit. I did this by not making jokes and laughing about it, being mature about different cultural beliefs, and not laughing or making immature comments about the culture. By showing respect during this unit, I enhance others’ hauora by growing trust and good communication. When people feel their cultural background is respected, they are more likely to engage with activities and grow more confident in speaking up for their opinions.
I must take care of all areas of my hauora when I experience change, loss, or grief because when I experience change, loss, or grief because each area—taha tinana (physical), taha hinengaro (mental/emotional), taha wairua (spiritual), and taha whānau (social)—is connected, and neglecting one can impact the others. Grief and loss affect more than just our emotions; they can weaken our bodies, challenge our beliefs, and strain our relationships. By looking after all parts of my hauora, I can stay balanced during difficult times.
Taha Tinana – Recognising how loss can affect my body, I will maintain self-care by getting enough rest, nourishing myself, and moving—even gently—to support my physical strength and grounding. Taha Hinengaro – I will acknowledge and express my emotions—perhaps through journaling, talking to someone I trust, or doing something creative—to help my mind process thoughts and feelings during this time. Taha Wairua – To nurture my spirit, I will seek connection with what gives me meaning—whether that’s through meditation, time in nature, music, karakia, or reflecting on my values and identity. Taha Whanau – I will reach out to whānau, friends, or community for support, to share stories, to be held in care, knowing their presence and connection can provide comfort and belonging.