Welcome to
THE 365 DAYS of Ancient wisdom for the Wellbeing of Modern Man  
Wednesday, 01.11.2023
WELCOME to Aotearoa

Kia ora, dear Green Heart Warriors! And nau mai Aotearoa, welcome to New Zealand! We have been traveling around the world and are now concluding our One World. One Family. 365 Days journey with the majestic Māori – the first inhabitants and indigenous people of New Zealand. We’re here to learn about their culture & wellbeing, which has become an integral part of life in New Zealand.

The Māori creation story says the first explorer to reach New Zealand was their ancestor Kupe. Using the stars and ocean currents as his navigational guides, he ventured across the Pacific on his waka hourua (voyaging canoe) from his ancestral Polynesian homeland of the mystical Eden place of Hawaiki around 1000 years ago.

In the upcoming month, we will dive into the daily life of the tribe that has managed to find its place and make its voice heard both in the world of its origin and the modern world. In fact, the Māori are a textbook example of our motto ‘yesterday meets today for the oneness of tomorrow’, showing us ALL that IT CAN BE DONE. What more could we ask for at the conclusion of our journey, right dear Green Heart Warriors?

Thursday, 02.11.2023
On Māori Karakia

Dane Tumaha, our Māori host, is a direct descendant of the Māori Chiefs that helped establish Tāmaki Makaurau – the city of Auckland. As one of the Ahi kā, ‘the people that keep the home fires burning’, he believes it is his role to host and care for us manuhiri – their guests. So, our Māori teachings began early on a dark, rainy morning, starting with a dawn karakia which our dear host wanted to perform to bless and greet us in Aotearoa – New Zealand.

“Karakia are prayers used in many formal and informal daily rituals,” said Dane, “Karakia can help set a positive tone for the day. Māori believe that learning simple karakia and using them regularly can be a way to strengthen connections.”

As we were told, karakia became a part of the daily ritual of corporate New Zealanders’ life to bless whatever the new day might bring or to give thanks for blessings received at the close of each day. Amazing, right?

Friday, 03.11.2023
On Marae: The Māori Meeting House

The Māori, with their rich culture and deep connection to the land, have a fascinating history that stretches back many centuries. Settled on the North and South Islands, they form tribes or “iwi”, each with its own unique customs, traditions, and dialect. But as a common feature throughout history, all Māori tribes had communal meeting grounds aka marae that were the focal point of every Māori community. This fenced-in complex of carved buildings is considered a place to meet, stand and belong to their origins and value system. The most prestigious structure being the wharenui or carved meeting house. A wharenui resembles the human body in structure and usually represents a particular ancestor of the tribe, containing intricate carvings and panels that refer to the whakapapa (genealogy) of the tribe, and to Māori stories and legends.

We were told that you can’t just walk into one, you have to be officially invited with a welcoming ceremony which we were lucky to receive by our Māori host Kimmy.

We found ourselves sitting at the marae, connecting with the legends of old that were coming through the carvings and Kimmy’s songs. What a beautiful welcome, right dear Green Heart Warriors?

Saturday, 04.11.2023
Self-reflection Saturday with the Keywords of the month: Humble proudness

Starting our month with the Māori tribes of New Zealand, we have already mentioned the karakia – prayers or chants used in many formal and informal daily rituals in order to help set a positive tone for the day.

 

  • Do you have any rituals or daily practices that bring your team together and set a positive tone for the day, dear Green Heart Warriors?
  • How does it influence team dynamics? Please share some good practices with us!

 

Enjoy your Saturday, dear ALL. Big Hug.

Sunday, 05.11.2023
Self-reflection Sunday with the Keywords of the month: Humble proudness

Have you heard about the Māori people of Polynesia before, dear ALL, with their language and culture being similar to tribes from Tahiti, Hawaii and Cook Islands? For the majority of us, those are dream holiday destinations, right?

 

What is the first thought that comes to your mind after watching Māori Dane’s greetings and Kimmy’s singing, thinking of those faraway places that with globalization and traveling are suddenly not that far anymore? What are your thoughts on this from the One World. One Family. perspective?

 

Happy SUNday, dear ALL.

Monday, 06.11.2023
On Hongi: Māori Greeting

As you know, dear ALL, we have reached the final destination of our global journey we undertook under the name “365 Days of Ancient Wisdom for the Wellbeing of a Modern Man” and will mark its end with teachings from the Maõri tribes of New Zealand. After meeting up with our host Kimmy, a Māori native and wellbeing expert, this upcoming week will be spent soaking up her valuable lessons. It was during our very first meeting that Kimmy approached me with the question whether I’d like to participate in the sacred and honorable Hongi ritual, a distinctive Māori greeting, saying that this gesture signifies that I am no longer a mere visitor, but a tangata whenua, which essentially meant that I was to be unified with her, by sharing one breath, one thought.

Can you imagine how wholehearted this gesture felt?

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Tuesday, 07.11.2023
On Maori Wellbeing

Dear Green Heart Warriors, in the upcoming week we want to share a truly captivating aspect of ancient Māori wisdom that has stood the test of time and is as relevant today as it was centuries ago. The Māori people possess profound teachings that can guide us towards holistic wellbeing.

Join us for a live interview with Māori Elder Kim Eriksen – Downs, a wellbeing expert from Lake Taupo. Kim will be speaking about how as modern people navigating the pressures and demands of contemporary life we often forget the importance of nurturing our overall Wellbeing, and how the wisdom of the Māori can offer us invaluable guidance on how to restore balance, find inner peace, and thrive physically, mentally, and spiritually.

 

With Love from New Zealand, Sasa.

Wednesday, 08.11.2023
On Hauora

Kimmy, our wellbeing expert and Māori host, has explained to us the native holistic views on health and wellbeing, saying that: “The indigenous concept of hauora encompasses not only physical health but also mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness. Prioritizing our wellbeing is not a selfish act, but rather a necessary one that allows us to be the best versions of ourselves for those we care about.”

Try and seek a balanced lifestyle that promotes nourishment for your body, mind, and soul, dear Green Heart Warriors. Make conscious choices about your physical activity, nutrition, rest, and self-care. Prioritize and protect your hauora, for it lays the foundation for a fulfilling and vibrant life. It has to be a conscious decision – to put your Being Well (well-being) first.

We know you have heard this before, but taking conscious next steps can often be challenging. Let’s take them together.

Thursday, 09.11.2023
On Whakapapa: Knowing Your Roots

Going into detail about the Māori wellbeing concepts, Kimmy pointed out the importance of the concept of whakapapa, referring to genealogy and ancestral connections and how that plays an integral role in Māori culture and its views on Wellbeing. By acknowledging our roots and understanding how we are all connected, we gain a deeper sense of identity, purpose, and belonging.

How about taking the time to explore your own ancestry, connect with your family stories, and uncover the wisdom of your own heritage, dear Green Heart Warriors? “Embracing our roots empowers us to stand tall, leveraging our unique strengths, and fueling our overall wellbeing,” Kimmy concluded her thoughts about the concept of whakapapa.

Friday, 10.11.2023
On Connection with Nature

“Maori traditions emphasize the deep connection between humans and nature,” said Kimmy our Māori host, as she was teaching us about the ancient concepts of wellbeing, “It’s essential that we recognize that the wellbeing of one depends on the other. Reconnecting with nature’s beauty and power can bring tremendous benefits to our lives. Get outside, breathe in the fresh air, listen to the birds singing, and ground yourself in the vastness of the natural world. Let nature’s serenity rejuvenate your spirit, inspire clarity, and foster a sense of purpose.”

Join us, dear Green Heart Warrior for Kimmy’s video tutorial on connecting with nature and with the wind, and allow yourself to take a deep, deep, long breath.

Saturday, 11.11.2023
Self-reflection Saturday with the keywords of the month: Humble proudness

Remember, each day presents an opportunity to connect with nature, practice kindness, honor our heritage, and prioritize our overall wellbeing. Let’s embark on this journey together, inspiring one another as we integrate Māori ancestral wisdom into our lives.

 

  • How does the idea of putting your wellbeing first make you feel?
  • Does it represent an egoistic act?
  • Or you are aware that if you are not ok, you can’t serve or help anyone else?

 

Enjoy your Saturday, dear ALL.

Sunday, 12.11.2023
Self-reflection Sunday with the keywords of the month: Humble proudness

By embodying this ancestral value, we unleash a powerful force that positively impacts not only those around us but also our own wellbeing. Practicing small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect, promoting positivity, building connections, and fostering a sense of community. By embracing the spirit of manaaki, we can uplift both ourselves and others.

 

  • What about doing an act of kindness for a random person that crosses your path today, dear Green Heart Warrior?

 

Happy SUNday, dear ALL.

Monday, 13.11.2023
On Interconnectedness

The Māori hold a strong belief in the importance of community and relationships. They understand that isolation and disconnection from others could be detrimental to one’s wellbeing. Therefore, they foster a sense of togetherness and communal support. They engage in various social gatherings, such as feasts and ceremonies, where they share stories, songs, and laughter. These gatherings, often held at the marae, not only nurture a sense of belonging but also allow the oral exchange of knowledge and wisdom between generations.

As you can feel, dear Green Heart Warriors, at the heart of Māori teachings is the concept of interconnectedness, the belief that everything in the universe is connected and that individuals are not separate from their surroundings. Let’s allow this understanding to reminds us – modern communities – to recognize the significance of our actions and their impact on the world – socially, environmentally and economically.

As the proverb says: ‘No man is an island’, right? We are ALL in this together.

Tuesday, 14.11.2023
On Oneness

Spirituality was a fundamental aspect of Māori ancient wisdom. The Māori believe in the existence of a spiritual realm inhabited by their ancestors who they refer to as tipuna. They consider their ancestors to be guiding forces that offer protection, wisdom, and support. They acknowledge the connection between the spiritual and physical worlds, and rituals are performed to honor and connect with their tipuna. Learning and being out in nature with Kimmy, she started every session with a karakia (prayer), thereby mindfully honoring the spirits of the trees, gods, and ancestors present with us in that moment in time.

Join us, dear Green Heart Warrior for Kimmy’s video tutorial in which she will be performing a ritual of cleansing and connecting with water. Allow yourself to feel the water washing your worries away.

Wednesday, 15.11.2023
On Spirituality

At the heart of Māori existence is the concept of whakapapa, which also recognizes the interconnectedness between all things. Whakapapa refers to a genealogical line of descent, but it also encompasses the understanding that everything in existence is interconnected and has a shared origin. Māori believe that humans, animals, and plants are all linked through an ancestral lineage, creating a holistic view of the world. How remarkably interconnected with the One World. One Family. right?

It was this view that was the inspiration behind choosing Oneness to be the Keywords of the closing chapter as the Māori spirituality beautifully celebrates the natural elements and the elements of the cosmos. They hold deep reverence for Ranginui, the Sky Father, and Papatuanuku, the Earth Mother. The Māori people see themselves as the children of Ranginui and Papatuanuku, and they acknowledge the need to maintain a balanced and respectful relationship with the natural world.

Can you feel the resemblance with the indigenous ancient Nature Worshipers around the world? Month after month ancient wisdom is pointing us back to the same origin, values, and beliefs.

Thursday, 16.11.2023
Going Back to Our Origins

Yesterday’s post ended with the question: Can you feel the resemblance with the indigenous Nature Worshipers around the world? Month after month, the 365 days of ancient wisdom journey is pointing us back to the same origin, values and beliefs, dear Green Heart Warriors. Is there a lesson of remembrance in this for all of us living in this fast-paced modern world, disconnected from nature, from living as a community, from having a deeper purpose, from being respectful of ancestral roots?

Unlike the majority of us, the Māori people (and all the other indigenous tribes) have forged an unbreakable bond with their ancestral traditions through their deep spirituality, connecting with the spiritual world and maintaining an enduring relationship with Papatuanuku, Ranginui, and the wider universe. Their spiritual beliefs continue to guide and inspire them, reminding them of their responsibility to protect, nurture, and honor the interconnectedness of all things.

May we invite you today to reflect on that thought, dear ALL, and have a good one.

Friday, 17.11.2023
On Oneness & Dolphins

Join us, dear Green Heart Warrior, for the live interview with our Māori host Takutai who will be sharing stories of the Marlborough Sounds and introducing us to the native wildlife – especially dolphins – who also happened to join the interview as you will see.

The Marlborough Sounds has a long history with the Māori who inhabited these sheltered waterways centuries before the first Europeans arrived. Many myths and legends surround the Sounds and we had the legendary local couple, Pete and Takutai Beech, who are described by some locals as the true guardians of the Sounds, share this special area with us.

 

With Love from New Zealand, Sasa.

Saturday, 18.11.2023
Self-reflection Saturday with the keywords of the month: Humble proudness

Māori proverb of the day:

“As man disappears from sight, the land remains.”

 

May we invite you to take a moment and reflect on this Saturday Māori thought?

Enjoy the day, dear Green Heart Warrior.

Sunday, 19.11.2023
Self-reflection Sunday with the keywords of the month: Humble proudness

Dear ALL.

Let’s enjoy SUNday. It’s time to hibernate and embrace the Oneness with our family and friends.

Much Love to ALL.

Monday, 20.11.2023
On Hobbiton

Though not connected to Māori wisdom in any way, one cannot not mention the famous Hobbiton, the Lord of the Rings movie set, set up on New Zealand’s North Island. Having taken a day off from learning about the fascinating Māori heritage, we traveled from Auckland to Lake Taupo where we – by pure coincidence – found ourselves amidst a beautiful backdrop of grassy green hills perforated with the most amazing little cottages. Our Living with a Green Heart founder @Urbanscape, which designs Green Wall and Green Roof insulation products, for sure has a proof of concept right here.

Not being familiar with the famous movies we observed the set purely as a living and breathing village for a community of tiny Hobbits and agreed that we could easily imagine ourselves living Green like that.

We promise to be back with lessons about the famous Māori haka warrior dance tomorrow. So please stay tuned, dear ALL. So much more to explore.

Tuesday, 21.11.2023
On Haka

We have all heard about at least one significant aspect of Māori culture – the haka dance, right? This traditional war dance, known worldwide for its intense expressions, rhythmic movements, and powerful chants, is a symbol of strength, unity, and pride. The haka is performed on various occasions, including welcoming visitors, honoring ancestors, and before rugby matches by the legendary All Blacks, New Zealand’s national rugby team.

Join us, dear Green Heart Warrior, for our Māori host’s Princess Ria Te Uira Paki’s storytelling session about the birthplace and the creation of the haka dance. Enjoy your day.

Wednesday, 22.11.2023
On Geysers

In Māori myths and legends, it is said that when Te Hoata and Te Pupu (Goddesses of Fire) travelled from Hawaiki in the form of fire to relieve their brother’s chills, they created New Zealand’s volcanoes, mud pools, geysers and hot springs. The geysers (we visited those in the Whakarewarewa Living Maori Village) with their awe-inspiring eruptions of steam and boiling water, embody the essence of vitality and energy.

Our Māori guide Mike told us that geysers are believed to connect them with their ancestors, but moreover, they are renowned for their therapeutic properties. The mineral-rich waters and steam hold tremendous healing potential. The Māori have long practiced the art of “wai ora” or “living waters”, harnessing the energy of geysers for medicinal purposes. We had to try it, of course …

Beyond the spiritual and physical realms, geysers contribute to the overall cultural wellbeing and they serve as a reminder, to All of us Green Heart Warriors, of the Māori’s ancient knowledge and their sustainable practices tied closely to the land. The preservation of geysers and the surrounding geothermal ecosystems is a testament to the Māori community’s commitment to environmental stewardship and the intergenerational transfer of wisdom. Let’s support their efforts, shall we?

Thursday, 23.11.2023
On Māori Tattoo Art

For the Māori, tattoos or moko, are more than just designs on the skin. Moko represents tangible connections to their ancestral roots, showcasing their identity, heritage, and achievements. It tells stories of valor, resilience, and cherished traditions passed down through generations. Each Māori tattoo design is unique, personalized to the wearer’s lineage and life journey. It symbolizes their mana, a spiritual force that embodies prestige, honor, and authenticity. Beyond their striking appearances, Māori tattoos are a physical manifestation of cultural preservation.

As we embrace diversity and celebrate cultural exchange on our 365 journey, dear Green Heart Warriors, it is important to recognize the deeper significance behind Māori tattoo art. Let us ALL become allies in the preservation and appreciation of Indigenous traditions – by honoring its cultural heritage, fostering understanding, and amplifying their voices. Together, we can create a world that truly values and cherishes the beauty of cultural expressions.

Friday, 24.11.2023
Meeting the Māori Princess

Join us, dear Green Heart Warrior, for the live interview with our Māori host, Princess Ria Te Uira Paki, who will be sharing how Māori teachings emphasize the importance of embracing one’s spiritual connection to the world. They encourage individuals to listen to their inner selves and to connect with spiritual realms. Through practices such as meditation, storytelling, dance and song the modern man can find solace, peace, and insight to navigate the complexities of life.

 

With Love from New Zealand, Sasa.

Saturday, 25.11.2023
Self-reflection Saturday with the keywords of the month: Humble proudness

Māori proverb of the day:

“Turn your face toward the sun and the shadows will fall behind you.”

 

May we invite you to take a moment and reflect on this Saturday Māori thought?

Enjoy the day, dear Green Heart Warrior.

Sunday, 26.11.2023
Self-reflection Sunday with the keywords of the month: Humble proudness

Dear ALL.

Let’s just enjoy SUNday and oneness with our family and friends.

Much Love to ALL.

Monday, 27.11.2023
On wood carving

Māori carvings hold a significant place in the rich cultural heritage of New Zealand. Not only are they visually stunning, they also serve as a powerful representation of the Māori people’s connection to their ancestors and land. These carvings are not just beautiful pieces of art; they are a language of their own, telling stories, passing down knowledge, and preserving traditions. They are a testament to the Māori culture’s resilience and strength across generations. When we engage with Māori carvings, we open ourselves up to a world of beauty, symbolism, and meaning, which ultimately fosters greater understanding and respect for indigenous cultures worldwide.

So, let’s take a moment, dear Green Heart Warriors, to appreciate the craftsmanship, the stories, the connections such carvings represent and first-handedly learn more about it tomorrow, during our interview with the renowned master carver Delani Brown.

Tuesday, 28.11.2023
On Carving

Join us, dear Green Heart Warrior, for the live interview with our Māori host, master carver Delani Brown, sharing the deep importance of the Māori legends and traditions being engraved and passed on to the next generations through Māori carving art.

 

With Love from New Zealand, Sasa.

Wednesday, 29.11.2023
GOODBYE NEW ZEALAND

Over the centuries, significant changes have taken place in the land we now call New Zealand; its original inhabitants, the Māori, have faced numerous challenges, including colonization and the loss of their land and language. However, their proud heritage and indomitable spirit persist. Today, the Māori people continue to humbly assert their rights, preserve their traditions, and celebrate their culture, ensuring that future generations can embrace their identity with pride. And that’s also the reason that we are truly grateful to end our journey with the Māori and witness their progress toward becoming a fully integrated part of New Zealand.

Closing our month with them, we invite you, dear Green Heart Warriors, to remember the resilience, beauty, and wisdom of this remarkable culture. From their ancient beginnings to the present day, the Māori people have left an indelible mark on New Zealand, serving as a testament to the power of heritage and the value of cultural diversity.

Thursday, 30.11.2023
On Closing the Journey

Over the centuries, significant changes have taken place in the land we now call New Zealand; its original inhabitants, the Māori, have faced numerous challenges, including colonization and the loss of their land and language. However, their proud heritage and indomitable spirit persist. Today, the Māori people continue to humbly assert their rights, preserve their traditions, and celebrate their culture, ensuring that future generations can embrace their identity with pride. And that’s also the reason that we are truly grateful to end our journey with the Māori and witness their progress toward becoming a fully integrated part of New Zealand.

Closing our month with them, we invite you, dear Green Heart Warriors, to remember the resilience, beauty, and wisdom of this remarkable culture. From their ancient beginnings to the present day, the Māori people have left an indelible mark on New Zealand, serving as a testament to the power of heritage and the value of cultural diversity.

Welcome to Monument Valley! Please join us for Richard’s video storytelling session and learn more about the power of erosion that has created the absolutely spectacular valleys and canyons in this place the Diné call home, dear Green Heart Warriors. Have a beautiful day!

 

With Love from North America, Sasa.