How does Well Nation incorporate traditional practices?
Well Nation incorporates traditional practices through activities like crafting, food preparation, and elder knowledge keepers.
The Well Nation program is crafted based on feedback from Indigenous communities to ensure it respects cultural values and addresses health and wellness needs. Elders are present on-site to guide participants through opening and closing ceremonies, sharing circles, and smudging rituals, fostering a respectful and inclusive environment.
Participants can engage in workshops that teach traditional crafts and skills such as snaring, shelter making, fire starting, and food preparation, including cleaning fish and gathering berries. The program also offers traditional sports like snowshoeing, lacrosse, archery, and fishing, providing a diverse range of activities that promote cultural connection and physical well-being. This approach enriches participants' understanding while also strengthening community bonds through shared experiences and intergenerational learning.