“I thought I was good at staying happy and seeing the best out of every situation. But I wasn’t really good at healing and dealing with stuff.”

“Having the tool to actually let things go and deal with things was this major eye-opener for me. Doing mindful walking, especially for me - I’m not good at meditating, I can’t sit still. If my body’s moving it makes my mind free up a bit. [I’ve] just been able to forgive people; forgive myself.”

In this episode of Mānawa Maiea te Atawhai, Manu Walters takes rangatahi outside to connect with nature and try techniques of hīkoi aroā, mindful walking. 

Mānawa Maiea te Atawhai is a 10-part series of practical mental wellbeing tools told through a Te Ao Māori worldview with honest kōrero, humour and shared stories. 

Watch the whole series here. 

Mānawa Maiea te Atawhai is created by The Kindness Institute, with funding support from Te Māngai Pāho. 

Where to get help:

• 1737: The nationwide, 24/7 mental health support line. Call or text 1737 to speak to a trained counsellor.
• Suicide Crisis Line: Free call 0508 TAUTOKO or 0508 828 865. Nationwide 24/7 support line operated by experienced counsellors with advanced suicide prevention training. 
• Youthline: Free call 0800 376 633, free text 234. Nationwide service focused on supporting young people.