Abstract

(Re)constructing health and resilience: An ‘āina based approach to health

Mapuana Antonio, DrPH¹, Samantha Keaulana, MSW¹ and 'Ilima Ho-Lastimosa, MSW, MoA²
(1)University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI, (2)God's Country Waimanalo, Waimanalo, HI

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According to Kānaka Maoli (Native Hawaiian) worldviews, health is demonstrated by being pono (loosely translated as righteousness) and maintaining lōkahi (balance) among the physical, mental, social, and spiritual ways of being. Kānaka Maoli worldviews of health extend to include relationships with akua (spiritual realm),‘āina (land, that which feeds), and kānaka (people). This community-based study expands on previous research, which explored health as holistic and resilience as multi-dimensional. In particular, a connection with ‘āina has been acknowledged as a prominent factor of health and resilience for Native Hawaiians. The purpose of this study was to explore the role of ‘āina and ‘āina connection in relation to health based on the perspective of Native Hawaiians. Key informant interviews were conducted with 24 Native Hawaiian community members/leaders throughout Hawai‘i. Key themes of this study included: 1) ‘āina is everything, 2) connection to ‘āina is important to health and stems from genealogy, respect for ‘āina, and kuleana (responsibility) to care for ‘āina, and 3) intergenerational health is reflected through intergenerational knowledge about ʻāina. The link between ‘āina connectedness and health may address concerns related to health conditions that stem from historical trauma and environmental changes by bettering our understanding of Native Hawaiian health and fostering stronger ties to the environment. This study will also help to inform future research and interventions that aim to improve Native Hawaiian health through ‘āina-based research.

Diversity and culture Planning of health education strategies, interventions, and programs Public health or related research Social and behavioral sciences