Underpinning Principles
- Honouring Te Ao Māori
At Transformed Therapy New Zealand, we hold deep respect for Māori as the tangata whenua (indigenous people) of Aotearoa (New Zealand).
We believe that these Māori principles and values can have health outcomes that are beneficial for all, and can help in creating an inclusive, culturally responsive approach to eating disorder recovery, education and support.
Healing The Whole Person: Te Whare Tapa Whā
Inspired by the Māori model of well-being, Te Whare Tapa Whā, we look at recovery through a holistic lens (addressing all areas of a person's life).
This framework encompasses:
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Taha wairua (spiritual health): Addressing your sense of purpose, values, inner strength and connection (this does not have to mean religion).
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Taha hinengaro (mental health): Supporting emotional and psychological resilience.
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Taha tinana (physical health): Promoting body respect and nourishment.
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Taha whānau (family/support system health): Recognising the pivotal role of relationships in recovery.
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Whenua (land/roots): Recognising places of significance for you and your relationship with that place.
By addressing these key areas, we strive to create a pathway that nurtures balance and long-term healing and wellbeing for people with eating disorders as well as support and education for caregivers and professionals supporting those with eating disorders.
Manaakitanga: Fostering Dignity and Respect
We are guided by manaakitanga—the principle of care, hospitality, and respect.
This means valuing your unique journey, honouring you unique identity, and ensuring your voice is central in the healing process.
Our trauma-informed approach reflects these values, emphasising safety, dignity, and empowerment.
Rangatiratanga: Supporting Autonomy
We recognise the importance of rangatiratanga (self-determination) in recovery and supporting someone in recovery.
We help to empower you to take ownership of your journey no matter what that looks like.
Through collaborative goal-setting and evidence-based tools, we encourage autonomy while providing unwavering support.
How Māori Healing Principles Can Benefit People Of All Backgrounds
While these healing principles are rooted in Māori culture, their application is not exclusive. Māori wisdom is universal, offering healing that transcends cultural backgrounds. Whether you are a person with an eating disorder, a caregiver, or a professional working in the field, these principles can support a holistic, culturally sensitive approach to recovery.
For Individuals With Eating Disorders
Māori healing values such as manaakitanga (care, hospitality, and kindness) and aroha (compassion) can support you in feeling valued, respected, and understood.
These practices create a safe space for you to explore your recovery journey while healing not only your relationship with food, your body and exercise but also your relationship with yourself.
For Caregivers Of People With Eating Disorders
These Māori principles can offer you a framework to better understand and support your loved one.
Whanaungatanga (the sense of belonging and connection) promotes family/support system involvement in the recovery process, which is crucial in healing from eating disorders.
The idea of shared responsibility in recovery can alleviate the emotional strain placed on you as their caregiver and strengthen relationship bonds.
For Professionals Working With People Who Have Eating Disorders
Whether you’re a therapist, counsellor, healthcare provider or other professional working with people who have eating disorders, understanding and incorporating Māori holistic healing practices can enrich your work with them.
Mauri ora (life force) and hauora (total well-being) can guide you in offering compassionate care while respecting the spiritual, emotional, and cultural needs of those you support.
Incorporating these values into your therapeutic practice encourages a more inclusive, trauma-informed, and effective approach.
Moving Beyond Cultural Boundaries
The beauty of these Māori principles lies in their universality.
The values of whānau (family/support system), aroha (love), manaakitanga (hospitality), and whanaungatanga (relationship building) can resonate with individuals from all walks of life.
By fostering connection, empathy, and respect, we can create spaces where recovery is not just about overcoming eating disorders but about embracing a holistic, connected, and meaningful life.
Transformed Therapy New Zealand is proud to weave these principles into our programs for people with eating disorders, caregivers, and professionals.